Basil is a familiar herb, widely popular in Vietnam. Basil is easy to grow and can be cultivated year-round in pots, on window sills, or balconies. Many people also grow basil in pots as an ornamental plant for their windowsills or balconies because of its numerous benefits. Basil is commonly used in cooking and also has medicinal properties.
**What is the significance of growing basil in feng shui?**
Basil is an aromatic herb with essential oils and is considered a sacred plant in some cultures. In India, for example, basil is a plant of the gods.
In feng shui, the upward-growing leaves of basil symbolize a yang plant, representing wealth and prosperity, and bringing good luck to the homeowner. Thus, many people grow basil around their houses.
Basil also helps purify the air and cleanse the home, enhancing the positive energy or ‘yang qi’ of the house. The aromatic essential oils of basil can help homeowners relax and attract good fortune, while dispelling negative energies. According to feng shui, the best directions to place basil plants are north, east, or northeast to attract wealth and abundance.
Growing basil is straightforward; you can either sow seeds or propagate cuttings. Basil plants thrive in sunny spots like balconies, windowsills, or kitchens, where they can dispel negative energies and attract positive ones, thus inviting prosperity into the home.
Basil requires minimal care. Simply plant basil in a pot about 20cm high and propagate cuttings in moist soil. During the initial propagation phase, ensure the soil is moist, and protect the plant from pests like mice and ants. You can water the basil with rice water, but avoid pouring it directly onto the leaves. Avoid placing basil in direct sunlight, as it may scorch the leaves.
**The Many Benefits of Basil in Daily Life**
– **Cancer Prevention**: Basil’s essential oil contains compounds that may help inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Thus, basil is believed to be beneficial for cancer patients.
– **Stress Relief**: The unique aroma of basil helps soothe nerves and alleviate pain. A study in India found that basil maintains normal levels of cortisol, a stress-inducing hormone in the body. So, chew on a few basil leaves or crush them to release their essential oils and promote relaxation.
– **Headache Relief**: Basil’s essential oil helps alleviate pain associated with sinusitis, allergies, colds, and migraines. You can consume basil by brewing it as a tea or adding it directly to your meals.
– **Skin Health**: Basil leaves detoxify and improve blood circulation, benefiting skin health. You can use basil water as a facial cleanser or apply it to treat acne.
– **Cough Remedy**: Basil’s antibacterial properties make it an excellent remedy for gum inflammation, coughs, and sore throats. Basil also contains compounds like camphene, eugenol, and cineole, which help soothe inflammation.
– **Gum Health and Teeth Whitening**: Chewing basil stalks and rinsing your mouth with the extracted juice helps reduce gum inflammation and whitens teeth.
– **Digestive Aid and Constipation Relief**: When experiencing bloating or constipation, chewing a few basil tips can provide relief.
– **Insect Repellent**: The fragrant aroma of basil repels flies, mosquitoes, ants, and cockroaches. You can grow basil pots on your windowsill or in your kitchen to keep insects at bay. You can also crush basil leaves and rub them on your skin to repel mosquitoes.
Growing basil is straightforward and an excellent way to have fresh herbs readily available at home without investing much time or effort.
*This information is for reference only.*