Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is ideal for drinking as a tea after dinner.  Famous for relieving indigestion it is relaxing and soothing and rounds off a meal perfectly.

Basil is famous as a garden herb.  Originally  from India it is now grown throughout the world.  Its name comes from the Greek Basileu meaning king -  it was originally discovered the story goes in the place where the Holy Cross was found by St Constantine.  In French it is known as  “L’herbe royale”.  In many cultures around the world it is strongly associated with making a safe journey to the afterlife.

Basil is also of great value to the living – as well as its traditional use for indigestion it has shown to have strong antioxidant anti-carcinogen anti-viral and anti-microbial properties.

Most importantly for our purposes – it is a delicious refreshing warming tea.

To brew place one heaped teaspoon of Basil per person in a warmed pot or Mug Infuser and add fresh boiling water.  Allow to steep for 4 minutes or longer if preferred then strain into mugs.