## From “Poor Man’s Vegetable” to a Household Favorite
For those who have lived in rural areas, rau tần dày lá, also known as Hungarian lemon basil or simply basil, is a familiar sight. This wild plant, often found in home gardens or roadside, was once considered a “poor man’s vegetable” due to its abundant and untended growth.
However, in recent years, with an increasing trend among urban dwellers embracing a greener, cleaner, and self-sufficient lifestyle, basil has unexpectedly risen to prominence. It has become the new “star” of apartment balconies and even featured on the menus of vegetarian and health-conscious restaurants.
The reason is simple: easy to grow, delicious to eat, and naturally healing.
## A “Superfood” from Your Balcony – Rich in Vitamin C and Natural Anti-inflammatory
It is surprising to discover that basil, a herb that grows as effortlessly as grass, possesses such high nutritional value. According to the publication “Cây thuốc và động vật làm thuốc ở Việt Nam” (Medicinal Plants and Animals in Vietnam) published by the Science and Technology Publishing House, 100 grams of basil contains:
- 70-90mg of Vitamin C, equivalent to the amount found in a medium-sized orange.
- Carvacrol and thymol, two phytochemicals with antibacterial properties, aid in mucus dissolution, inflammation reduction, and respiratory tract disinfection.
- Additionally, it contains beta-carotene (pro-vitamin A), calcium, iron, and flavonoids, a natural antioxidant.
Thus, apart from being used as a culinary herb, basil is also valued as a traditional medicine to boost immunity and aid in the treatment of coughs, colds, and mild sore throats.
## Grows as Fast as Grass – Harvest for a Month
Another wonderful aspect of basil is its ease of cultivation.
With just a small cutting, you can plant it in a pot, water it every morning, and within a few days, it will take root. Soon enough, you’ll see shoots sprouting vigorously like grass. In just 10-12 days, you can start harvesting the leaves, and if you plant a few pots alternately, you can enjoy a continuous supply for 30-40 days.
Free from pests and diseases and requiring no fertilizer, basil is the “clean food dream” for busy city dwellers.
“Seeing the plants thriving on my balcony every morning brings me joy for the whole day. My little daughter also loves helping me pluck the leaves for cooking. That feeling is priceless.” – shared by Ms. Le Huong Giang (34 years old, Ho Chi Minh City)
## Food, Medicine, and Spice: All in One
Beyond being a culinary herb, basil is also a valuable medicinal herb in traditional medicine. According to the book “Những cây thuốc và vị thuốc Việt Nam” (Medicinal Plants and Herbs of Vietnam) by Professor Do Tat Loi, this herb is effective in dissolving mucus, reducing inflammation, relieving coughs, and treating colds and sore throats.
Additionally, basil can be used in various ways:
- Cooked in soup with eggs, tofu, or minced meat
- Brewed as a cleansing tea
- Pounded and applied to insect bites
- Used in raw vegetable salads to accompany grilled dishes
Each method of consumption offers a unique sensory experience, combining the pleasant aroma and subtle spiciness of lemon and mint.
## Reconnect with Nature from Your Balcony
In an era of urbanization, growing a pot of basil is not just about having clean food but also about reconnecting with nature. As the cost of living rises, growing your own herbs can be a “gift of savings” that you give yourself every day.
“With just one square meter of balcony space, I can grow 5-6 different types of vegetables. Watering my plants every morning helps me slow down, feel calmer, and reduce stress.” – shared by Mr. Nguyen Van The (37 years old, Hanoi), an advocate of a minimalist lifestyle.
## Self-Planting, Self-Healing, Self-Nurturing
Have You Tried Growing Basil Yet?
All it takes is a small cutting, a bit of patience, and love for nature. Who knows, gardening might become a beloved hobby for your entire family.
The Ultimate Guide to Super-Fast-Growing Vegetables: Save Time and Money with this Miracle Crop
No need for a sprawling garden or fertile soil – this “miracle” vegetable grows like a weed and can be harvested all month long with just a single planting. With a nutritional value surpassing that of oranges, yet so easy to cultivate that even a novice gardener can succeed, this vegetable is truly a wonder.
Is It Worth Planting Golden Shower Trees in Front of Your House? Check Your Luck if You Are Among These Two Zodiacs.
Golden Flower Tea is not just an aesthetically pleasing ornamental plant, but it also boasts an array of health benefits and positive feng shui associations.
The Ultimate Egg-citing Twist: Elevate Your Fried Egg Game with This Leafy Delight – A Tasty and Nutritious Alternative to Green Onions
This fried egg dish is an enticing feast for the eyes with its vibrant yellow and green hues, but it’s the subtle aroma that truly sets it apart. The delicate fragrance enhances the overall dining experience, making it a more palatable affair compared to the regular scallion fried egg.
The Ultimate Guide to Running Your AC All Night: One Extra Button Press for Worry-Free Comfort
“Air conditioners have become an integral part of our lives, providing relief from the scorching heat. However, the common practice of keeping the AC running throughout the night can lead to soaring electricity bills, leaving many worried about the costly consequences. Fortunately, there’s a simple solution to this problem – by pressing just one additional button on your remote control, you can enjoy a good night’s sleep while significantly reducing your energy costs. It’s time to beat the heat without breaking the bank!”
“The Power of the Agarwood Tree: Unlocking the Ancient Secrets of Nature’s Most Mystical Plant”
Mộc Hương is a highly prized ornamental plant that boasts both significant economic value and auspicious feng shui symbolism.
