Introduction

Sweet Basil originates from Vietnam and tropical Asia. The plant is an annual hairy herb growing up to 1 meter (3 feet). The flowers range from white to pink, depending on the species and attract swarms of bees in summer time.

This Essential Oil is derived from the leaves of the Ocimum basilicum botanical, better known as the Basil herb. This plant receives its name from the Latin word basilius as well as the Greek word basilikón phutón, which mean “royal plant,” hence Basil is also known as the Queen of Herbs or l’herbe royale, meaning “royal herb” in French. It may also be referred to as Saint Joseph’s Wort, Great Basil, European Basil, Vietnam Basil, Common Basil, or Sweet Basil.

Applications

• Food use:
  Its strong liquorice aroma makes it ideal for many different cooking preparations. When it comes to cooking in its native land of China and Vietnam it is part of five important spices which are widely used for cooking traditional Chinese food especially meat. While in the west Star Anise is used in food products such as fruit compotes, jams and other baking products.
• Cosmetic use:
  Being high fragrant oil, Star Anise Oil one of the key ingredients in perfumery, toothpastes, soaps, skin creams and mouthwashes. 
  Blends With: Lavender, Pine, Orange, Rosewood, Clove, Cinnamon