BASIL – Cinnamon

Cinnamon basil, also known as Mexican spice basil, has a spicy, fragrant aroma and flavor. It contains methyl cinnamate, giving it a flavor reminiscent of cinnamon.

Materials:

• Cinnamon Basil seeds
• Garden soil or potting soil
• A trowel or shovel
• A watering can or hose with a gentle sprayer attachment
• Organic fertilizer

Steps:

1. 1. Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil. Cinnamon Basil requires plenty of sunshine to thrive, so select a spot with at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. The soil should be well-draining and fertile.
   2. Prepare the soil. Using a trowel or shovel, loosen the soil to a depth of about 12 inches. Add some organic fertilizer to the soil to provide the nutrients needed for healthy growth.
   3. Sow the seeds. Sow the Cinnamon Basil seeds about 1/4 inch deep into the soil, spacing the seeds about 6 inches apart. Cover the seeds lightly with soil and gently press down the soil to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
   4. Water the seeds. Using a gentle sprayer attachment, water the soil well but not excessively, making sure not to wash away the seeds. Keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes around 7 to 14 days.
   5. Provide proper care. Once the Cinnamon Basil plants have grown to a few inches tall, thin them to one plant per 6 inches of space. Water the plants deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions, and avoid overwatering. Fertilize the plants with organic fertilizer every two to three weeks to provide the nutrients needed for healthy growth.
   6. Pinch back the plants. To encourage bushy growth, pinch back the top leaves of the Cinnamon Basil plant once it reaches a height of around 6 inches.

• Harvest the basil. Once the Cinnamon Basil plants are mature, you can harvest the leaves as needed. Pick the leaves in the morning, after the dew has dried but before the sun is too hot, to ensure the best flavor. Use the leaves in a variety of recipes, or dry them for later use.

Basil is a popular herb with a long history of use in traditional medicine. Some of the herbal benefits of basil are said to include:

• Anti-inflammatory properties: Basil contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to reduce inflammation in the body.

• Antioxidant properties: Basil is rich in antioxidants, which help to protect the body from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals.

• Digestive health: Basil has been used to treat digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and constipation. It may also help to reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

• Respiratory health: Basil has been used to treat respiratory issues such as coughs, colds, and asthma. It may help to reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract and improve breathing.

• Anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties: Basil has been shown to have anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties, which may help to fight off infections.

• Stress relief: Basil has been used as a natural remedy for stress and anxiety. It may help to promote relaxation and reduce feelings of tension.

Overall, basil is a versatile herb with many potential health benefits. It can be consumed fresh, dried, or in supplement form, and is a great addition to many different dishes. However, as with any herbal remedy, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider before using basil for medicinal purposes.

The below video is for growing all types of basil: