{"id":153727,"date":"2025-06-04T03:08:35","date_gmt":"2025-06-04T03:08:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/websitedesigns.com.au\/elankanew\/?p=153727"},"modified":"2025-06-04T03:09:08","modified_gmt":"2025-06-04T03:09:08","slug":"why-would-i-grow-sweet-basil-in-kandy-by-dr-harold-gunatillake-oam","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/websitedesigns.com.au\/elankanew\/why-would-i-grow-sweet-basil-in-kandy-by-dr-harold-gunatillake-oam\/","title":{"rendered":"“Why would I grow sweet basil in Kandy? – By Dr Harold Gunatillake – OAM"},"content":{"rendered":"

Why would I grow sweet basil in Kandy? – By Dr Harold Gunatillake – OAM<\/span><\/h2>\n

\"Dr<\/p>\n

\"grow<\/p>\n

In 2022, Sri Lanka experienced a nearly 50% drop in food\u00a0 production. The country is now beginning its gradual\u00a0 process of rebuilding and recuperation. However, it is still\u00a0 not out of the woods \u2013 the World Food Programme (WFP)\u00a0 has warned that the food crisis in Sri Lanka is likely to\u00a0 worsen amid poor agricultural production, price spikes,\u00a0 and a prolonged economic crisis, with an estimated 6.3\u00a0 million people likely to experience moderate to severe food insecurity.\u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

============================================\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

When I returned to Sri Lanka and settled in our Kandy Villa,\u00a0 I brought basil seeds that I had purchased at Bunnings in\u00a0 Sydney.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Why basil? Because it’s not just a herb; it’s a cultural icon.\u00a0 Basil, known as the ‘king of herbs,’ is an ancient culinary\u00a0 treasure. It is considered a sacred plant in India and is\u00a0 central to vibrant Hindu mythology. The word basil is\u00a0 derived from the Greek word for king, basileus. In\u00a0 Ayurveda, the traditional medical system of India, tulsi,\u00a0 informally known as holy basil, is revered for its ability to\u00a0 reassure the mind, nourish the spirit, and promote\u00a0 digestion. This rich cultural and medicinal heritage is why I\u00a0 chose to grow basil in Kandy.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Basil is not just a flavorful herb; it’s also a stressbuster. With\u00a0 over 150 varieties, each with a unique flavour, basil is a\u00a0 culinary delight. The traditional sweet basil (Ocimum\u00a0 basilicum) is a staple in many Italian and Mediterranean\u00a0 dishes, while Indonesian and Vietnamese varieties are\u00a0 known for their distinct spicy, clove-like flavour. However,\u00a0 basil’s health benefits extend beyond its taste. It’s a global\u00a0 health superstar, with potent anti-inflammatory,\u00a0 antioxidant, and adaptogenic properties. These\u00a0 adaptogenic properties are particularly noteworthy, as\u00a0 they help the body adapt to stress. Holy basil, also known\u00a0 as Ocimum sanctum, Ocimum tenuiflorum, or tulsi, is a\u00a0 different species that has been extensively studied and\u00a0 shown to enhance immunity, adapt to stress, and reduce\u00a0 inflammation, among other benefits.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Basil is not just a flavorful herb; it’s a powerhouse of\u00a0 nutrition. Packed with vitamin A and carotenoids like\u00a0 beta-carotene, it’s a boon for eye health and has\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

potential anti-carcinogenic properties. The abundance of\u00a0 iron in basil supports a healthy metabolism and hormonal\u00a0 and organ functions. It also aids in the production of\u00a0 haemoglobin, which is crucial for the body, especially for\u00a0 children, and in the fight against anaemia. Along with\u00a0 potassium and B complex vitamins, basil leaves are a\u00a0 nutritious source of essential energy. Research has even\u00a0 shown that the aromatic oils from basil can enhance the\u00a0 body’s utilisation of beta-carotene, further boosting its\u00a0 nutritional value.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Antioxidant Properties of Basil\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Basil contains various plant-derived antioxidants, a\u00a0 characteristic important due to the role of oxidative stress in many chronic diseases. These antioxidants combat\u00a0 oxidative damage by neutralising free radicals, which can\u00a0 accumulate in the body from various sources, including\u00a0 UV exposure, pollution, and unhealthy diets. In doing so,\u00a0 antioxidants reduce inflammation and protect body\u00a0 tissues from oxidative stress caused by these pesky free\u00a0 radicals.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

One study found that after men with hyperlipidemia\u00a0 consumed 30 millilitres of basil leaf extract per day for four\u00a0 weeks, their levels of antioxidant activity increased.\u00a0 Another study investigated the results of giving birds 300\u00a0 milligrams of sweet basil leaf extract, revealing that the\u00a0 birds expended less energy during physical exertion and\u00a0 maintained lower body temperatures. This was taken as\u00a0 an indicator of increased antioxidant activity, which\u00a0 resulted in positive effects on the birds’ final body weight.<\/span><\/p>\n

Additionally, using sweet basil in foods preserves meat\u00a0 colour, improves tenderness, reduces oxidation, and\u00a0 extends expiration dates. Other antioxidants have been\u00a0 identified in basil, including flavonoids, polyphenols,\u00a0 terpenes like linalool, and many other volatile oils. These\u00a0 chemicals and compounds have been found to reduce\u00a0 platelet aggregation and inflammatory free radicals,\u00a0 while also positively impacting blood pressure, cholesterol,\u00a0 blood sugar, and other related factors.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Almonds, grapes, and blueberries also contain the\u00a0 flavonoid antioxidants that sweet basil contains. Plant based diets rich in antioxidants have been linked to\u00a0 improved overall health and longevity, whereas\u00a0 consuming a low-antioxidant diet is strongly associated\u00a0 with non-communicable diseases and increased\u00a0 mortality.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Basil has significant health benefits due to its anti inflammatory effects. Compounds in basil that reduce\u00a0 inflammation can benefit individuals trying to lose weight\u00a0 or who are at risk for heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and\u00a0 high blood pressure. The antioxidant-rich compounds in\u00a0 basil offer it potential anti-inflammatory effects, which are\u00a0 essential for reducing the risk of chronic conditions such as\u00a0 cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. Basil’s flavonoids,\u00a0 essential oils, and other plant compounds, such as\u00a0 estragol, linalool, and eugenol, contribute to its anti inflammatory properties. For example, eugenol found in\u00a0 basil has been shown to inhibit the activity of an enzyme\u00a0 called cyclooxygenase, which can contribute to\u00a0 inflammation. Additionally, the essential oils in basil may\u00a0 prevent inflammation at the cellular level.<\/span><\/p>\n

When you consume basil, certain compounds from the\u00a0 herb travel through your body and reach the cells. Once\u00a0 inside, they might help reduce inflammation by\u00a0 interacting with antioxidant enzymes and other\u00a0 mechanisms. In laboratory tests, these anti-inflammatory\u00a0 compounds in basil have shielded cell structures and\u00a0 chromosomes from radiation and oxidative stress. The\u00a0 potential anti-inflammatory effect is also observed in\u00a0 individuals who regularly incorporate basil into their diet. 5. Potential Anti-Cancer Properties of Basil.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Basil contains many compounds that may work to protect\u00a0 your cells and tissues from damage that contributes to the\u00a0 growth and progression of cancer, as well as help treat\u00a0 cancer through alternative means. Compounds such as\u00a0 eugenol found in basil have been shown to exhibit anti cancer-like properties. Available research provides ample\u00a0 evidence for basil’s beneficial effects on health. Many\u00a0 labs have reported the antioxidant properties of various\u00a0 basil compounds. Basil contains flavonoids and\u00a0 polyphenolic compounds known for their potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Basil\u00a0 compounds can support health, and their traditional uses\u00a0 suggest that further benefits may yet be discovered.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Basil is recognised for its significant health benefits,\u00a0 primarily due to its anti-inflammatory properties.\u00a0 Compounds in basil that reduce inflammation can benefit\u00a0 individuals trying to lose weight or who are at risk for heart\u00a0 disease, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure. The\u00a0 antioxidant-rich compounds in basil offer it potential anti inflammatory effects, which are essential for reducing the\u00a0 risk of chronic conditions such as cancer, diabetes, and\u00a0 heart disease. Basil’s flavonoids, essential oils, and other\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

plant compounds, such as estragol, linalool, and eugenol, contribute to its anti-inflammatory properties. For\u00a0 example, eugenol found in basil has been shown to inhibit\u00a0 the activity of an enzyme called cyclooxygenase, which\u00a0 can contribute to inflammation. Additionally, the essential\u00a0 oils in basil may prevent inflammation at the cellular level.\u00a0 When you consume basil, certain compounds from the\u00a0 herb travel through your body and reach the cells. Once\u00a0 inside, they might help reduce inflammation by\u00a0 interacting with antioxidant enzymes and other\u00a0 mechanisms. In laboratory tests, these anti-inflammatory\u00a0 compounds in basil have shielded cell structures and\u00a0 chromosomes from radiation and oxidative stress. The\u00a0 potential anti-inflammatory effect is also observed in\u00a0 individuals who regularly incorporate basil into their diet.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

I encourage my readers to grow basil in their back or front\u00a0 gardens, knowing it offers excellent health benefits.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

What is the best way to grow basil?\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Where to Plant Basil\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Basil loves the sun, so choose a location that receives at\u00a0 least six to eight hours of sunlight each day. It can thrive in\u00a0 partial sun as well. While it’s not overly particular about\u00a0 soil, it performs best in well-drained soil rich in organic\u00a0 matter. Containers and raised beds are excellent options\u00a0 since they allow for good drainage.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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“Gardening is a work of the heart.”<\/strong><\/u><\/u><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

End<\/span><\/p>\n

Click here to receive your free copy of the eLanka Newsletter twice a week delivered directly\u00a0to\u00a0your\u00a0inbox!<\/span><\/strong><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Why would I grow sweet basil in Kandy? – By Dr Harold Gunatillake – OAM In 2022, Sri Lanka experienced a nearly 50% drop in food\u00a0 production. The country is now beginning its gradual\u00a0 process of rebuilding and recuperation. However, it is still\u00a0 not out of the woods \u2013 the World Food Programme (WFP)\u00a0 has […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":153728,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"aside","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[20,1103],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-153727","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-aside","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-articles","8":"category-dr-harold-gunatillake","9":"post_format-post-format-aside"},"yoast_head":"\n"Why would I grow sweet basil in Kandy? - By Dr Harold Gunatillake - OAM - eLanka<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"In 2022, Sri Lanka experienced a nearly 50% drop in food\u00a0 production. 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