How to dry basil, beneficial properties and use at home

Spicy basil varieties have received recognition in many countries due to their unusual aroma. Modern gardeners actively grow the plant in their summer cottages, and real gourmets cannot imagine many dishes without the addition of dried basil. The spice is easy to care for and can be easily grown in a variety of environmental conditions.

Description and types

Basil belongs to the flowering department and is distinguished by tetrahedral stems up to 60 cm high. The foliage of the plant has a rich purple or green color and an oval shape. The surface of the leaves and stem is rough. The plant contains essential oil, which gives a spicy aroma.

Breeders have developed more than 70 varieties of spice. Each variety has individual characteristics and differs in appearance. Bushes can grow to a certain level, and leaves of different types differ in shape and color. The most common varieties include lemon, allspice, cinnamon and common basil.

Composition and beneficial properties

The composition of the plant includes a rich set of useful elements. Basil contains carotene, tannins, fiber and a vitamin complex. It also contains mineral and plant components.

Any variety of basil is useful because its use provides protection against viral and bacterial infections, normalizes sleep and improves digestion. The plant is used for lung diseases, flatulence and gastrointestinal diseases.

Advantages and contraindications

Greens have gained popularity among gardeners due to a number of advantages. These include:

1. Versatility of use, which allows you to use vegetation in various spheres of life.
2. Possibility of growing outdoors, in greenhouses or at home.
3. Resistance to diseases subject to basic care rules.
4. Greens tolerate being placed in beds with other herbs and vegetables well, so they can be planted in the same greenhouse with other crops.

Despite the benefits of basil, it should be consumed in moderation to avoid poisoning. The plant contains mercury compounds, so it is contraindicated for pregnant women and young children.

How to dry it at home?

You can dry fresh herbs in several ways, which differ from each other in technology and the time it takes to obtain the finished spice. Before choosing the appropriate method, you should know about the rules for collecting plants.

When to collect?

Basil collected at the very beginning of the flowering period is suitable for drying. You can use plant flowers or leaves. Any variety of basil can be dried, but it is important to consider that their tastes and aromas will differ from the classic type.

How to dry in the oven?

The plant must be dried in the oven at a temperature of 35 degrees. You can leave the greens in the oven together with the petioles or separately. You can remove the spice after 4–5 hours.

In an electric dryer

The fastest drying of the plant allows you to get the finished product within 5 minutes. It is enough to put the greens in the electric dryer for this time and turn on the heating power of 700 W. Dried leaves should be taken out very carefully, as they become very hot during processing.

Naturally

To dry greens without mechanical impact, you can hang small bunches with their leaves down in a dark room with good ventilation and high temperature. The basil needs to be shaken periodically to ensure even drying.

Storage

If necessary save dry basil You can put it in earthenware or glass dishes.Provided the hermetic seal is maintained, the spice will retain its flavor and aroma for 3–4 years. To extend the shelf life, it is recommended to place containers with herbs in a dark place and periodically check the spices for mold and insects.

Application

The rich chemical composition of the plant expands the possibilities of its use in everyday life. Basil is used in medicine, cosmetology, cooking and other industries.

For women

Cosmetics using basil leaves very popular with women. The drugs have antioxidant properties and improve skin condition. An infusion of the plant and oil based on it help fight wrinkles, get rid of warts, and reduce hair fragility.

For PMS

The characteristics of the plant relieve women from pain before menstruation and have a positive effect on the immune system. Spice leaves are a source of iron, which actively leaves the body with blood loss and cleanses it.

For cystitis

A decoction of greens for cystitis reduces pain from inflammation and reduces the number of unpleasant urinations. To prepare the solution, just mix 1 tablespoon of basil leaves and 200 ml of water, cook over low heat for 7-10 minutes, strain and consume three times a day.

For weight loss

When following a diet to lose excess weight, it is recommended to consume basil seeds. The spice acts as a natural absorbent and removes waste, cholesterol, and toxins from the body.

For men

Modern medicine confirms that the benefits of the plant affect men's health. Including basil in your diet on an ongoing basis has a positive effect on potency and increases sexual desire.

In folk medicine

The beneficial characteristics of dried basil are widely used in folk therapy. Healing decoctions, infusions and balms are prepared from the leaves. In practice, the plant helps cure a number of diseases.

For dry cough

To combat dry cough, it is recommended to brew basil-based tea. By consuming the infusion after meals, you will be able to increase tone, reduce pain from upper respiratory tract infections and relieve irritation in the throat.

When tooth enamel and gums are weakened

A number of components that make up greens help strengthen tooth enamel and protect gums from ulcers. The plant kills microbes in the mouth and removes tartar.

For kidney stones

Sufferers of kidney stones are advised to take the juice of the plant mixed with honey daily. Use for six months activates the passage of stones and stabilizes tone.

To strengthen vision

The presence of vitamin A in greens prevents visual impairment and partially eliminates myopia. It is especially useful to use basil to strengthen vision in childhood.

Under stress

Riboflavin and rutin in the plant restore the functioning of the nervous system. Thanks to this, a person is less exposed to stress and nervous breakdowns. Tea using basil has a calming and relaxing effect on a person.

For heaviness in the stomach and problems with the gastrointestinal tract

If pain occurs in the stomach area, it is recommended to brew 1.5 teaspoons in 250 ml of boiling water. The filtered infusion should be drunk 2 glasses daily. A week-long course helps cleanse the body and eliminate problems with the gastrointestinal tract.

For immunity

The medicinal plant, when used frequently, improves immunity. The beneficial components of basil strengthen the body and promote recovery after serious operations. Regular consumption of greens gives strength and energy.

For rheumatism

Decoctions based on dried basil reduce pain in muscles and joints. The plant has an antiseptic and irritating effect on painful areas. For arthritis and rheumatism, ointments and creams containing greens help.

In cooking

Fresh or dried basil leaves are especially prized in the culinary field. The aromatic and taste characteristics of the spice complement meat and fish dishes, salads and snacks. The plant gives dishes a spicy taste that combines bitter notes and astringency.

Magic properties

According to many beliefs, basil has magical properties and attracts love, prosperity and good luck to the home. The plant maintains a peaceful environment, prevents conflict situations, and protects the house from ill-wishers.