Ocimum basilicum L. (Basil)

Abstract

Basil, better known as “the king of herbs,” is widespread today in almost every home garden and is a leading spice worldwide, used for culinary purposes both dried and fresh. It is a source of essential oils and other valuable antioxidant and phenolic compounds and a medicinal herb with a history of tales and lore. In India, basil is considered sacred; in Italy, it is a symbol of love; in ancient Greece, it is a symbol of hatred; and in Judaism, it is one of the scented spices used during the “Havdalah” service, the ceremony performed to mark the end of the holy Sabbath. In the following chapter, we will discuss the genus Ocimum and concentrate on the breeding efforts and approaches that are undertaken by many scientists and researchers worldwide that made the “king of herbs” into a global economy and profitable industry.