Basil (Ocimum basilicum), also known as Saint Joseph’s Wort, is an herb belonging to the mint family – Lamiaceae. It is often used as a seasoning in cooking.
The herb is well known for its use in Italian cuisine – it is one of the primary ingredients in pesto sauce.
The word “basil” derives from the Greek word “basileus,” which means “king.”
There are different types of basil, which differ in taste and smell. Sweet basil (the most commercially available basil used in Italian food.
