Thai basil - a type of basil - has lately garnered lots of popularity all across the world. Thanks to its refreshing flavor, the plant makes for a delicious ingredient in several culinary preparations. Moreover, it also has a wide range of medicinal benefits as well. Read ahead to learn more. A member of the mint family, Thai basil is native to Thailand, as well as some other countries of Southeast Asia. The plant grows up to 45 cm and is characterized by green, narrow leaves with a strong aroma. Also, it has pink-purple flowers that are gorgeous to look at. Thai basil is easy to grow, and also has various uses - such as culinary, medicinal, aesthetic, and more. How to Grow Thai basil Thai basil is quite delicate, and so, it needs enough care to grow properly. First, get a 5-6-inch-deep pot and fill it with fertile soil (with a pH ranging from 6.5 to 7.5). Then, take 5 seeds of the plant and sprinkle them in the soil. Keep the pot in a place where it will get at least six hours of direct sunlight every day. Water the plants regularly, but make sure to not overdo it. Thai Basil as a Culinary Ingredient As previously mentioned, Thai basil is a significant ingredient in many cuisines - the list includes Thai, Lao, Vietnamese, Taiwanese, Cambodian, etc. Some of the popular dishes are Thai Green Curry, Vietnamese Phở, Bún Bò Huế, Bánh Xèo, etc. The seeds are also used to prepare various types of drinks. Health Benefits of Thai Basil Besides flavors and aroma, Thai basil is also popular for its nutrition profile. It's an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids. Moreover, the plant's seeds are packed with antioxidants, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-cancer properties. As per several research studies, consuming Thai basil regularly can protect you from issues like cough, cold, and fever. On the other hand, it helps reduce stress, aid in weight loss, support digestion, enhance skin health, and also prevent the risk of certain types of cancer. Good to Know Thai basil is scientifically termed Ocimum basilicum. It can grow well only in a tropical climate. Its smell is quite similar to that of cloves, rose, lemon, anise, thyme, cinnamon, etc. When choosing a container for Thai basil, always go for the plastic ones.
