Basil is not just a herb that boosts human health, it is also a feng shui plant. According to ancient wisdom, simply growing this herb indoors is like ‘opening a vault’ of wealth and fortune for the household, bringing good luck and prosperous business ventures.
Growing Basil Indoors Activates Wealth and Fortune
Basil has a strong, pleasant aroma and is often used as a delicious accompaniment to various dishes. However, basil is more than just a culinary herb; it is also a medicinal plant and an aesthetically pleasing ornamental plant.
In feng shui, the long and upright shape of basil leaves symbolizes wealth and prosperity, bringing good fortune to the homeowner. For this reason, many people choose to grow basil around their homes.
Basil is also highly prized for its abundant essential oils, which impart a delightful fragrance to the air. It can naturally freshen up the indoor environment, dispelling negative energy and attracting positive vibes for the family members.
Additionally, basil has beauty benefits and can even be used for hair rinsing. To enhance your skin’s radiance using basil, you can create a face mask by blending basil leaves and adding a teaspoon of sandalwood powder. Apply this mixture to your face for about 20 minutes and then rinse it off with cold water for a natural, rosy glow.
If you prefer not to use a face mask, you can still benefit from the essential oils in basil by using it for facial steaming. Basil contains essential oils that help detoxify the skin by opening up the pores. Simply prepare a bowl of hot water, add a few sprigs of basil and some lemongrass stalks, and then steam your face over it. This method is excellent for removing toxins from the skin, leaving it smooth and healthy.
How to Grow and Care for Basil
– Basil is a heat-loving plant and thrives in hot and sunny weather, with optimal growth occurring at temperatures between 25°C and 35°C. The plant will stop growing and may even die if the temperature drops too low.
– Basil requires direct sunlight for about 6 to 8 hours daily. The soil should be moist and well-drained.
– Seeds should be sown about 0.5 cm deep and spaced about 20 cm apart to allow for proper root development and adequate sunlight exposure. Alternatively, you can propagate basil by cutting off a stem, removing most of the leaves, and planting the remaining stem in the soil.
– Choose clean soil and avoid using chemical fertilizers as the plant grows rapidly, and any pollutants in the soil will be absorbed quickly.
– Basil prefers high humidity. If you live in a hot area, consider using leaf mulch or a shade cloth to help retain moisture in the soil.
– When the basil sprouting has about 10 to 15 leaves, pinch out the central stem to prevent early flowering and encourage bushier growth. Remove any flowers that do appear to prevent the plant from going to seed and causing a decline in leaf production.
– In case of cold weather, harvest the basil early to prevent wilting.
– You can start harvesting basil leaves when the plant reaches a height of 15-20 cm and starts branching out. Regularly pluck the leaves to encourage new growth and more tender leaves. Basil leaves can also be wrapped in newspaper and stored in the refrigerator for later use.