Basil Meaning, Healing, and Magical Uses
Welcome to the Masters’ Grimoire of Magical Herbs page for Basil. Here you will learn everything you've ever wanted to know about this herb including Basil's magical uses, Basil physical healing, and emotional healing properties, plus its use in meditation, Basil lore and legends, and much more!
Introduction to Basil
Basil is a widely used culinary herb around the world. The leaves are used fresh or dried to flavor meats, fish, salads, sauces, etc. In addition, it has been used as an important medicinal plant in various traditional and folk systems of medicines.
Basil, also known as Great Basil, is an herb in the mint family grown for its aromatic leaves. According to the Oxford English Dictionary, the term "basil" comes from the ancient Greek basileus, which means "king." (2) Basil's botanical name is Ocimum Basilicum. The genus word ocimum means "to be fragrant" in Greek, and basilicum, the species, comes from the Greek word basilicon, which means "kingly herb." (1)
There are 35 species of Basil, with countless cultivated variations. It is native to tropical regions including Africa, Asia, the Middle East, the Caribbean, and South America. According to early explorers, Basil was believed to be sacred and have mystical abilities. (1) Several myths and lore are associated with Basil, from being a plant of royalty, a poison, a cure, keeping away pests, a symbol of love, and more.
The sacred number of Basil is 80.
Basil Magical Uses and Purposes
Basil is an herb that will aid in building enthusiasm, excitement, and passion for everyday life, especially during those days when it feels like the weight of the world is on your shoulders. Basil sparks inspiration and the eagerness to achieve your life goals and get your back into your groove. Use Basil to add a little bit of zest and gusto back into your life.
A spell that utilizes Basil is said to attract love or bring luck in physical journeys. If you carry a Basil leaf in your pocket, it is said to attract money and wealth. As a business owner, it is recommended to soak Basil in water for three days and then sprinkle it over the threshold of your place of business to attract customers and repel thieves. If you wish to keep your lover's eyes on you only, dust the upper half of your body, especially over your heart, with powdered Basil. To protect your home and family, keep some Basil in each room. When you leave your home, rub Basil on your forehead for protection. (5)
Healing with Basil
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Notes from the Masters
Basil is a super favorite in my herb cabinet. I’ve used it for everything up to biscuits and gravy and salmon filets. It was interesting to learn that it can be used in protection spells and to attract love. Next time I put basil in a meal, I’’ll consider it a tool for adding extra love and protection into that dish.
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Basil Physical Health Benefits
Basil has been used globally as an important medicinal plant to treat physical ailments throughout history. Many of Basil's health benefits come from the many antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals it contains and its essential oil. To receive the most benefits, it is recommended to use fresh Basil since these compounds disappear during the drying process. (3)
Sweet Basil, in particular, contains antioxidants that help the body fight free radicals that can cause cell damage and increase the risk for a wide range of health issues, including cancer, heart disease, arthritis, and diabetes. Holy Basil, another Basil variety, is said to help protect against different cancers, including lung, liver, oral, and skin cancer. It contains phytochemicals which can also assist in reducing the side effects of radiation therapy. (3)
Basil extracts have been reported to lower circulating blood glucose levels and inflammation, making them beneficial in preventing diabetes and other forms of metabolic syndrome. In addition, other studies have shown that its extracts can protect against harmful bacterial growth. (3)
Basil's eugenol can help reduce blood pressure by blocking calcium channels. In addition, the herb's essential oils can aid in lowering cholesterol and triglycerides. Basil also includes magnesium, which allows muscles and blood arteries to relax, improving blood flow. (3)
This herb has anti-inflammatory properties. Its potent essential oils aid in reducing inflammation, which is the basis of many disorders, including heart disease and rheumatoid arthritis. (3)
Basil can assist with depression, anxiety, and other mood-related illnesses and disorders. Some people think of it as an antidepressant since it affects brain activity through the adrenal cortex. In addition, Basil has been shown in studies to have a high potential as a natural adaptogen or herbal therapy that helps the body adapt to stress and regulate the negative effects of stressors on the body. (3)
Spiritual Healing with Basil
Basil is an herb related to money, love, flying, and protection. It is traditionally used in this fashion by anointing with basil essential oil. In Europe, it has been commonly used to protect your home from evil spirits by hanging it to dry or growing in doorways.
Emotional Healing with Basil
Basil has a wide range of emotional healing effects. Its elevating effects can aid with low self-esteem, negative mental processes, and even increasing awareness of one's environment. During the day, it is used to alleviate mental tiredness to keep you motivated, or in the evening to relax and clear the mind in preparation for the next day. (4)
Basil is known to have aphrodisiac properties that awaken the senses and causes excitement. It assists with relationships whose interests have waned by bringing the focus back towards their partners and strengthening their bond. It's used to help two individuals communicate better, attract a lover, and celebrate love. (4)
Basil for Chakra Healing
Basil is used to clear blockages from and balance the Heart Chakra.
The Heart Chakra is located near the center of the breastbone. It regulates our interaction with the external world. It controls what we embrace and what we resist. The Heart Chakra gives us the balancing ability to keep neither too aloof nor too involved in the world around us. It balances our inner being – our "self" with our environment. Shop for Heart Chakra Balancing Items
When the Heart Chakra is balanced, we can clearly understand our needs and emotions. As a result, we can maintain healthy, joyful, and mutually nourishing relationships. When your Heart Chakra is out of balance in a relationship, you may feel like you are controlling others or the one being controlled. You might grow irritated by other people's little flaws. You might notice that you have inappropriately intense emotional reactions to everyday exterior events.
Use Basil to rebalance your Heart Chakra to maintain meaningful relationships with others and yourself. Utilize Holy Basil to balance all chakras.
Color Energy of Basil
Basil flowers are violet or amethyst in color, sometimes white. We find the color energy to be mostly Amethyst. This is the energy ofof creativity to us. They help us visualize, create, and invent. They stimulate our creativity. Because they create the color rays that connect the old and the new, the Basil plants give us the vision needed to see the future.
When you need to know what lies ahead, when the need is great, use Basic to find your way into a difficult future. It give us powerful insight and enhance our perception of the potential effects of our decisions.
White is the color of the feminine gender, manifested as the Goddess in many cultures, and, as such, the color of the world of birth, and regeneration. It is the color of the full moon reflected on a snow-covered field. It is cold, but a sleeping cold that is inconspicuously reflecting great heat. White is the color of freedom and the color of hope.
White is often the color used for the spiritual world; one that is sensed but not seen. It offers illumination, innocence, purity, and unity. This color is one said to bring Moon energy and the ability to release you of burdensome inhibitions.
Angels Associated with Basil
Basil is associated with the angel Jelial, the Protector and Ruler of the dates March 26 – 30, and the sign of Aries. It is also associated with Parasiel, the Angel of Treasures. You'll also find the angel Uriel is associated with Basil. Uriel is the Master of the 21st tarot card "The World." He heals resentment and is the ruler of the south wind. Uriel is also known as the angel of music and repentance and is associated with the sun sign, Libra.
Basil and the Goddess
Basil is associated with Demeter the Goddess of Determination.
Basil Birth Herb
Basil is the birth herb of those born on February 16, March 2, April 15, June 19, June 22, June 24, October 7, November 9, and December 16. If your birthday falls on one of these days, you will have a unique attraction to Basil and find that their magical abilities reside within you.
Basil I Ching Hexagram
Basil is governed by Hexagram 16, Building Enthusiasm. Key characteristics of Basil derived from is affinity for the 16 Hexagram are: excitement, interest, passion, shared interest, zeal, vigor, zest, gusto, inspiration, and eagerness.
Basil Astrological Sign
Basil is associated with the astrological signs Pisces, Aries, Scorpio, and Sagittarius.
In Moon Astrology
Basil is associated with the Mansion of the Waves.
Uses of Basil in Feng Shui
Basil brings Metal Energy to Feng Shui practices.
Metal energy is the energy of intelligence, contraction, healing, and creativity. It is the energy of togetherness and crystallization – of ideas, concepts, and groups. It is hard, sharp, and often destructive, yet an essential element in all lives. We have to be sharp, unyielding, and hard at times to find our way without being a victim of others. The metal element brings the power of concentration and determination to our lives and our dwellings.
Metal energy is traditionally associated with the northwest and west areas of a home or room. It is associated with the Helpful People and Blessings, and Travel area of your life and dwelling, and with the Creativity and Children area.
Uses of Basil in Talismans and Amulets
Basil is used to make talismans and amulets for desires and needs, including autonomy, boats, boyfriend, fighting chaos, fatalism, diligence, tenacity, overcoming insecurity, self-confidence, sobriety, surrender, conquest, success, devotion, dealing with adversity, achievement, determination, persistence, drive, attitude, domestic bliss, empathy, family life, friendship, manners, marriage, energy, and conquering fear.
Using Basil in Divination
Use Basil in divinations for love and happiness.
Meditation with Basil
The popular variant of Basil, Holy Basil, is a well-known herb for use during meditation. In India, it is considered the sacred plant of Vishnu, and many believe that the goddess lives within it. In ancient texts, it is said to bring goodness, virtue, and joy. (6)
Lore and Legends of Basil
Basil is claimed to defend against scorpions in African tradition, whereas scorpions are said to breed in their presence in Greek mythology. (5)
According to European folklore, Basil belongs to Satan, and for it to grow correctly, you must curse the ground as you plant it. This is the origin of the French term "semer le basilic," which means "to sow the basil." (5)
Furthermore, according to numerous legends, if a gift of Basil is given to a member of the opposite sex, they will fall profoundly in love with the donor and remain forever faithful. This act is considered an official engagement in Romania. (5)
by Jessica Bilyeu
Jess is the most senior member of the Crystal Vaults having over 15 years of experience in all aspects of the company. She is a resident expert in all aspects of the metaphysical uses of crystals, gems and herbs. She is the managing director and Chief Operating Officer of the company.
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References
- https://libguides.nybg.org/basil
- Oxford English Dictionary
- https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-basil
- https://www.thearomablog.com/basil-essential-oil-properties/
- https://witchipedia.com/book-of-shadows/herblore/basil/
- https://yogainternational.com/article/view/five-herbs-to-assist-in-meditation
- Mark McElroy. I Ching for Beginners: A Modern Interpretation of the Ancient Oracle (For Beginners (Llewellyn's)) (Kindle Locations 530-531). Kindle Edition.
(Please note: Information on this website is no substitute for consulting a health care professional. All information contained on this website, including information relating to medical and health conditions, products, and treatments, is for informational purposes only. Please see your doctor or health care professional before starting any alternative treatments, diets, supplements, or exercise programs.)