Basil (Ocimum basilicum) linalol-rich, organic from Nepal

Basil is a familiar cooking herb which many of us have grown successfully in our gardens. There are over 100 different species of Basil, each slightly adapted to its unique corner of the globe. The two most famous are the common cooking Basil and Holy Basil, grown in India and known there as ‘tulsi.’ Essential oil of Basil contains linalol, fenchol, alpha-terpineol, citronellal, eugenol, myrcene, limonene, and geraniol. This spectrum of chemicals suggests it can be used as a skin treatment for insect bites, general itching, shingles, and herpes. This oil can be fairly irritating on the skin though, and should be diluted with a good carrier oil like Sesame or Jojoba oil. Added to a shampoo or hair rinse, Basil has a reputation for promoting hair growth. Used externally in a massage oil or in a bath salt, Basil can relieve the pain of muscle aches, rheumatism, and gout. It is said to improve the circulation by decongesting the veins and to be a good anti-inflammatory, making it useful f