Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
A mint family member that is commonly partnered with tomatoes. Considering it's
modern popularity it is hard to believe that the ancient Greeks hated it. On the
other hand, to the ancient Romans it became a symbol of love and fertility. Even
today Hindus plant it to bring happiness to their homes.
Curative Qualities: Basil is considered a strong antibacterial and antispasmodic.
Basil contains vitamins A, D, B2, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and iron. It
contains six different compounds that reduce blood pressure and ease the
symptoms of emphysema and bronchitis. Basil also makes a good insect repellent.
Aroma: Somewhat like anise, with a strong, pungent, sweet smell. There are
varieties that smell like lemon, licorice and cinnamon.
Character: Slightly sweet and delicately citrusy.
Heat Level: 0

Bay Leaves (Laurus nobilis)
A noble leaf of the laurel family, recognizable from in ancient pictures and statues
of ancient Grecian Olympic winners, honored scholars, poets and noblemen of
Rome. Today Gran Prix winners are adorned with laurel leaf wreaths. Some still
call this spice laurel, but bay leaves is the more common term today. The oracle of
Delphi's inhaled smoke is thought to have been from burning laurel. That along
with chewing leaves was thought to promote the oracle's visionary powers.
These leaves come from huge trees that can grow up to 60 feet high.
Curative Qualities:  It was once used to keep moths away, owing to the leafs
lauric acid content which gives it insecticidal properties. Bay leaf has many
properties which make it useful for treating high blood sugar, migraine
headaches, bacterial and fungal infections, and gastric ulcers. Bay leaves and
berries have been used for their astringent, carminative, diaphoretic, digestive,
diuretic, emetic and stomachic properties. Bay leaf has been used as an herbal
remedy for headaches. It contains compounds called parthenolides, which have
proven useful in the treatment of migraines. Bay leaf has also been shown to
help the body process insulin more efficiently, which leads to lower blood sugar
levels. It has also been used to reduce the effects of stomach ulcers. Bay Leaf
contains eugenol, which has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties.
Aroma: Warm and quite pungent when broken and the aromatic oils are released.
Character: Slightly bitter with strong aroma.
Heat Level: 2
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