Basil, originates from India and is probably one of the widest used culinary herbs, particularly in Italian and Mediterranean dishes.
Varieties of basil also feature heavily in Thai cuisine adding a fresh flavour to the dishes. The leaves of basil give of a strong smell, particularly when torn. In cooking Basil has strong notes of spice and a mintyness and has the flavours of clove, cinnamon, and anise.
There are host of varieties of Basil, as well as several related species which are also called Basil.
The most common type and the one commonly used in Italian tomato based sauces is sweet basil. Other varieties include Thai basil, Red Basil and Lemon Basil.
