The ‘basil’ plant from the Greek βασιλικόν φυτόν (basilikón phutón) and from Latin, basilius, means “royal/kingly plant”.

It is a plant that is used in many cuisines all over the world.  It plays a big role in many religions and ceremonies for the dead in different culutres. In the Greek Orthodox religion, and other Orthodox churches in the Balkins, basil is used to sprinkle holy water to cleanse a home. In India it is place in the mouth to help the deceased person reach God. The ancient Egyptians and Greeks believed it would open the gates of heaven for a person passing on.

When the plant flowers you can collect the seeds and plant them in the spring.