March 1, 2012

Go Green Month

Last month we focused on herbs and other things associated with love.  The month we will go green and discuss things that are associated with green or going green.  Let's start by getting back on track.

It has been some time since we did a weigh in.  Remember the challenge at the beginning of the new year?  We were all given a challenge to have a better body in 365 days.  I know you slipped and guess what I did too.  I will confess that I enjoyed the couple pieces of chocolate that I did consume for Valentine's Day.  However, it is time to get back on track and finish what we started.  The challenge this month is to loose the weight you may have gained last month, "the month of love".  Please leave a comment in the blog to let me know ho well you do with the weight loss.  You may want to start with an herbal cleanse or some type of detoxification program.  If you have any candy or chocolates left over from Valentine's Day now is the time to toss it.  Here is one of my favorite remedies to make for detoxing:

1 cup hot water that has been boiled

1- 2 teaspoons of chickweed powder

1/2 teaspoon of honey

Chickweed can be purchased at your local health food store.   Boil the water like you would for making tea.  Steep the Chickweed in the hot water until the water changes to a murky green color.  Leave the tea to steep longer, add honey and sip slowly.  Be prepared to make many trips to the bathroom after drinking the tea.  You can continue for as many days as you need too detox.  you may notice a change in the appearance of the skin because Chickweed is also good for skin eruptions.  Have fun and happy detoxing.

February 29, 2012

Jasmine

We are not talking about your "boo" or your neighbor down the street.  Jasmine is a shrub that is a part of the olive family.  It gives off a fragrance when it's oils are used in perfumes.  The flowers are typically around 2.5 cm (0.98 in) in diameter. They are white or yellow in color, though in rare instances they can be slightly reddish.  Widely cultivated for its flowers, jasmine is enjoyed in the garden, as a house plant, and as cut flowers. The flowers are worn by women in their hair in southern and southeast Asia. The delicate jasmine flower opens only at night and may be plucked in the morning when the tiny petals are tightly closed, then stored in a cool place until night. The petals begin to open between six and eight in the evening, as the temperature lowers.  Jasmine can come in the form of tea, perfume, oil, or as a landscaping plant.  This will conclude the month of love.  Maybe there is piece of information or an herb that you will try.

Remember to consult your health care physician or medical personnel when starting any new diet or exercise plan.  Even when it comes to love.

February 28, 2012

Ylang Ylang

The scent of ylang ylang, like jasmine and rose, has long been considered an aphrodisiac. This may account for its popularity in perfume blends. Of course, the so-called aphrodisiac scents also simply smell wonderful, which may be why they are attractive to the opposite sex. In aromatherapy, ylang ylang is used for its stress-relieving properties -- a few drops of ylang ylang oil in a hot bath can melt the day's cares quickly away.  Ylang ylang is also thought to reduce anxiety and perhaps even relieve depression. Sexual dysfunction or simple lack of interest might be addressed with a judicious use of ylang ylang oil in an aroma lamp or blended in a massage oils. Ykang Ykang comes in the form of oils, soaps, perfume, and plants.

February 27, 2012

ROSE

How can we talk about love and not mention the rose.  A rose is a woody perennial of the genus Rosa, within the family Rosaceae. There are over 100 species. They form a group of erect shrubs, and climbing or trailing plants, with stems that are often armed with sharp prickles. Flowers are large and showy, in colors ranging from white through yellows and reds. Most species are native to Asia, with smaller numbers native to Europe, North America, and northwest Africa. Species, cultivars and hybrids are all widely grown for their beauty and fragrance. Rose plants range in size from compact, miniature roses, to climbers that can reach 7 meters in height. Different species hybridize easily, and this has been used in the development of the wide range of garden roses.  Roses are also used to make perfumes and used for some medical treatments.  The fruits of many species have significant levels of vitamins and have been used as a food supplement (see previous section). Many roses have been used in herbal and folk medicines. Roses has long been used in Chinese traditional medicine. This and other species have been used for stomach problems, and are being investigated for controlling cancer growth.  Keep some roses around the house either for fun or for healing.

February 26, 2012

Paizogony

I bet you all are wondering what in the world the word Paizogony means.  It means; necking, love play.  Okay, I know I could have just said what it meant, but I wanted to use a word that perhaps you have not ever heard.  Hmm, maybe you can throw this word to your loved one the next time you are feeling lovable.  talk about leaving a small impression.  February is the month of love for The Bitter Herb blogspot, so I want to be as creative and out of the box as I can.  As I mentioned earlier, I have been married for a long time and being creative helps keep the fire burning in the marriage.  Hmm, a little paizogony "ain't" bad either.

February 25, 2012

ORRIS ROOT

Orris root is a term used for the roots Iris germanica, Iris florentina, and Iris pallida. Once important in western herbal medicine, it is now used mainly as a fixative and base note in perfumery, as well as an ingredient in many brands of gin. It's also the most widely-used fixative for potpourri.

Fabienne Pavia, in her book L'univers des Parfums (1995, ed. Solar), states that in the manufacturing of perfumes using orris, the scent of the iris root differs from that of the flower. After preparation the scent is reminiscent of the smell of violets.

After an initial drying period, which can take five years or more depending on the use, the root is ground. For potpourri, this powder is used without further processing. For other uses, it's dissolved in water and then distilled. One ton of iris root produces two kilos of essential oil, also referred to as orris root butter, making it a highly prized substance, and its fragrance has been described as tenaciously flowery, heavy and woody (Paraphrasing Pavia, Dutch translation, page 40). Typical iris-perfumes (where the compound of the ingredient prevails over the other components) are: "Infusion d'iris"(Prada*); "Tumulte"(Christian Lacroix*); "Aqua di Parma"* and "Iris nobile"(Aqua di Parma*); "Irisia"(Creed*); "Y"(Yves Saint Laurent*) and "Vol de nuit"(Guerlain*).

Orris root has been used in tinctures to flavour syrups; its taste is said to be indistinguishable from raspberry.

Orris root is often included as one of the many ingredients of Ras el hanout, a blend of herbs and spices used across the Middle East and North Africa, primarily associated with Moroccan cuisine.

February 24, 2012

Nurture

The word nurture means to feed and protect: to nurture one's offspring. To support and encourage, as during the period of training or development; foster: to nurture promising musicians.  When used as a noun it means to rear, upbringing, education, or the like.  development:  the nurture of young artists, something that nourishes; nourishment; food.

The word nurture may be associated with a woman who nurtures her child as it grows up.  The word nurture may have a spiritual aspect for some people.  For example, to provide (someone) with moral or spiritual understanding<she feels that her lifelong practice of reading the Bible daily has nurtured her in ways she cannot describe>.

February 23, 2012

Mistletoe

We are all familiar with at least a portion of the mysterious mistletoe's story: namely, that a lot of kissing under the mistletoe has been going on for ages.  Few, however, realize that mistletoe's botanical story earns it the classification of "parasite".  Fewer still are privy to the convoluted history behind the tradition of kissing under the mistletoe.  And its literary history is a forgotten footnote for all but the most scholarly.  Kissing under the mistletoe is traced back to Scandinavia.  The custom was that if, while out in the woods, you happened to find yourself standing under mistletoe upon encountering a foe, you both had to lay down your arms until the following day.  Mistletoe is really only spoken about or given any type of recognition during the Christmas season.  After Christmas is over the mistletoe is destroyed or dries up and is forgotten until the next Christmas holiday rolls around.  My advise is to get a hold of some mistletoe and place it al around the house.  Who knows, maybe someone will be surprise by getting all of those kisses just by being under the mistletoe.

February 22, 2012

Lily of The Valley

The Lily of the Valley is a plant/herb that you absolutely DO NOT want to eat.  It is poisonous and care needs to be taken when it is given as a floral arrangement to a loved one. It is a beautiful plant and gives off a light scent that is not harmful.

Christian legend

Convallaria close-up

The name "lily of the valley" is also used in some English translations of the Bible in Song of Songs 2:1, although whether or not the Hebrew word "shoshana" (usually denoting a rose) originally used there refers to this species is uncertain.

The flower is also known as Our Lady's tears or Mary's tears from Christian legends that it sprang from the weeping of the Virgin Mary during the crucifixion of Jesus. Other etiologies its coming into being from Eve's tears after she was driven with Adam from the Garden of Eden.

It  is a symbol of humility in religious painting. Lily of the valley is considered the sign of Christ's second coming. The power of men to envision a better world was also attributed to the lily of the valley.

February 21, 2012

The Balm of Gilead

Balm of Gilead is mentioned in the Bible as a great comforter. It is said to ease the plight of the Broken-Hearted, to soothe the pain engendered by quarrels, argument, and lovers' spats, and to ease problems caused by jealous co-workers and false friends who are trying to trouble your marriage or love-life. Some folks place a pinch of  Balm of Gilead in the four corners of the bedroom to bring peace to the home and put an end to marital and sexual problems. Others tell have said that they carry Balm of Gilead in a pocket for reconciliation with an long lost friend, or spouse, or that they burn it on charcoal with Myrrh as an incense. I guess there really is a Balm in Gilead.  We know the real deal.

February 20, 2012

Peppermint

Peppermint- brings pleasure, success and protection. Peppermint stimulates virility and has a tranquilizing effect. Peppermint in baths can raise the body’s temperature and brings a sense of coolness and calm to the spirit. It is an herb of purification and one that excites love.  Try adding some peppermint to hot chocolate or hot carob (natural chocolate).  Create a basket that contains chocolates, carob chips, lavender, camomile, ginseng, and some other love herbs..  You will have days of fun and excitement with the one you love.

February 19, 2012

Cinnamon

We all know that cinnamon is an herb that is generally used in cooking.  We also may have noticed that the smell of cinnamon draws most people to it when they do smell it.  This effect may be due to the oils that are in cinnamon, they are a natural aphrodisiac.  Cinnamon is- ruled by Aphrodite, cinnamon has strong stimulant properties and assists those wanting to strengthen intellect and clarity.  Assists with focusing the mind and enhancing communication. While having strong associations to love, cinnamon also is considered a prosperity herb. It has a long history of use as a herb used for business, attracting wealth and building a sense of abundance. Cinnamon is used in aromatherapy products and potpourri.  When used on these two occasions cinnamon focuses upon sexuality and love, as the fragrance of cinnamon is considered an aphrodisiac.  Try setting some cinnamon in a pan on the stove or a potpourri burner and watch the mood in the atmosphere change.

Yall, please do not throw me under the bus for making a reference to Aphrodite.

February 18, 2012

Camomile

Camomile- the delightful fruity aroma calms emotions and anxiety, soothes the body and assists with muscle and joint pain.  Camomile leaves you with a soft glow and repairs and improves skin health. Camomile corresponds to the element of water and is associated with various Sun Gods. It attracts the energy of love and has protective qualities and is known to lift the spirit.  It is also associated with being a prosperity herb. With its soothing and healing properties it has often been used to aiddepression and anxiety.

Try making yourself or your sweetheart a hot cup of Camomile tea and see how relaxed and mellow they become.

February 17, 2012

Black Cohosh This is for the ladies.  There comes a time in life when we need that extra push in the love department.  When we get a certain age, both men and women, we may have a little harder time getting motivated in the love department.  It is okay.  Our bodies are constantly changing and so are our hormones.  We need extra supplements for energy, extra fitness programs to maintain our weight, and assistance to get those "wacked" hormones regulated.  Black Cohosh is an excellent herb that helps regulate female hormones.  Black Cohosh is also beneficial during the menopause years.  The root of the Black Cohosh plant is the part that is used in over the counter products.  Black Cohosh is a shrub-like plant native to the eastern forest of North America.  Other uses for Black Cohosh may include; relieve menstrual cramps and mood swings of (PMS).  Traditional uses have been to relax muscles, or as a relaxant and antispasmodic.

February 16, 2012

Herbs to use to Increase Energy American Ginseng Botanical Name(s): Panax ginseng, Panax quinquefolius Popular Name(s): Five Fingers, Tartar Root, Five Leafed Ginseng, Redberry Parts Used: Root Habitat: American Ginseng is found in East North America (Canada and the US) Description: American Ginseng is a perennial herb with a fleshy tuber-like root and grows to a height of 8-24 inches. The plant bears three compound leaves, each composed of five toothed leaflets. Its flowers are greenish white in colour and appear in June-July. The fruits are in the form bright red berries that appear in late summer. Uses: American Ginseng has anti-fatigue and energy giving properties. The plant is used as a demulcent, panacea and stimulant. It increases resistance of the body to infections and improves energy metabolism.

February 15, 2012

Herbs for Beauty

White Peony Root Family Name: Paeoniaceae Botanical Name(s): Radix Paeoniae Alba Popular Name(s): Chinese Peony Root Parts Used: Root Habitat: It is native of Europe and Asia. Description: The plant is a perennial herb, 50-80cm high, with a stout branched root. Leaves are alternate and bi-alternately compound, the ultimate segments red- veined, oblong-elliptical. The leaflets are narrow-ovate or elliptical, 8-12 cm long and 2-4cm wide. Flowers are large with red, white or purple. Uses: Peony root is used to relax muscle and cleanse the blood. It is one of the most highly prized women's herbs used traditionally to help regulate the female hormonal cycle and to tone up and purify the blood. It is used as a pain reducing agent and also as an emotional stabilizer for women. It is said to relieve cramps and spasms anywhere in the body. Peony root is also believed to extend life and to promote beauty. You may want to drink a cup of hot tea before bed or to get your mood regulated.

February 14, 2012

Valentine's Day

Valentine's day is on of those holidays that wither bring out the good or the bad in people.  What does this have to do with health?  I am going to tell you.  Love, or the state of being loved is one of Maslov's hierarchy of needs.  It is a proven fact when people feel loved they tend to have a more calm and fulfilled life.  The opposite is true when humans do not feel loved.  They tend to have unfulfilled lives with plenty of meaningless relationships.  When people feel loved their vital signs, such as blood pressure, tend to be a lot lower than someone who may struggle with loving others.  Let's use this holiday to show others that we love them and that they truly matter to us.

February 13, 2012

MARRIAGE

Maybe marriage is an institution that you, the reader, are familiar with.  However, we have seen a growing number of people today, who do not believe in the institution of marriage as the Bible lays out the foundation of marriage. We could get into tis in depth, but once again there just is not enough time or space. Marriage is a legal institution between a man and woman, husband and wife.  Marriage is an institution that God has put together and I pity the fool that tries to put it asunder.    Those of us who study the Bible, clearly can see that God destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah because of the perversion that was taking place at that time.  Do I dare say we are repeating those traditions of Sodom and Gomorrah?  Marriage was, is , and will always be between a man and a woman, not the same sex.  If God would have meant for the same sexes to marry he would have made Adam and Steve, or Eve and Eva.  He made Adam and Eve and that is how it is.  

February 12, 2012

LOVE

What is love? It is one of the most difficult questions for the mankind. Centuries have passed by, relationships have bloomed and so has love. But no one can give the proper definition of love. To some Love is friendship set on fire for others maybe love is like luck. You have to go all the way to find it. No matter how you define it or feel it, love is the eternal truth in the history of mankind.  

Love is patient, love is kind. It has no envy, nor it boasts itself and it is never proud. It rejoices over the evil and is the truth seeker. Love protects; preserves and hopes for the positive aspect of life. Always stand steadfast in love, not fall into it. It is like the dream of your matter of affection coming true.   Love can occur between two or more individuals. It bonds them and connects them in a unified link of trust, intimacy and interdependence. It enhances the relationship and comforts the soul. Love should be experienced and not just felt. The depth of love can not be measured. Look at the relationship between a mother and a child. The mother loves the child unconditionally and it can not be measured at all.   A different dimension can be attained between any relationships with the magic of love. Love can be created. You just need to focus on the goodness of the other person. If this can be done easily, then you can also love easily. And remember we all have some positive aspect in us, no matter how bad our deeds maybe. And as God said Love all

February 11, 2012

Koinonia

Is  the anglicisation of a Greek word that means communion by intimate participation. The word is used frequently in the New Testament of the Bible to describe the relationship within the Early Christian Church as well as the act of breaking bread in the manner which Christ prescribed during the Passover [John 6:48-69, Matthew 26:26-28, 1 Corinthians 10:16, 1 Corinthians 11:24]. As a result the word is used within the Christian Church to participate, as Paul says, in the Communion of - in this manner it identifies the idealised state of fellowship and community that should exist - Communion.  The word has such a multitude of meanings that no single English word is adequate to express its depth and richness. It is a derivative of koinos, the word for common. Koinonia is a complex, rich, and thoroughly fascinating Greek approach to building community or teamwork.

February 10, 2012

Juggling

We all have busy lives and the balancing act can be a bit stressful.    Juggling any type of relationship requires a plan.  There are only 24 four hours in a day, and we use every hour daily.  We say that we are going to do this or do that, but by the time we complete one thing, it seems like the time is gone.  Women have so much more to juggle than most men.  Some of us have to work outside of the home, clean the house, wash clothes, walk the dog, cook dinner, be counselor, be a lover , and the list goes on.  Men usually have minimal duties and are able to get rest at some point during the day.   We have to learn how to juggle our lives and relax. Chances are good that we may live to see another day and the duties of yesterday will be there to meet us the next day.  Here are a few tips to may help both men and women to juggle love and life:

1.  Plan your day.  Just like you are planning meals you can plan you day.

2.  Learn how to say "NO".  It is okay and people will have to understand that you are not a super hero.

3.  Prioritize your duties.  When you plan your day, figure out what needs to be done right away and what can wait.

4.  Plan time during the week to date.  It is important to juggle work and love to keep the relationship fresh and alive.

5.  Take some "me" time.  I cannot express how much better we can feel if we just take some "me" time.  It dose not have to be expensive or elaborate.  Just take some time to reflect and spend time with you. (God of course)

6.  On your days off, play, not work.  Do not use your time off to do excessive amounts of housework.  Use this time to spend with your loved one and play. 

These tips may not seem like they relate to love, but they do.  I have been with my husband 29 years and we have to be creative in our marriage, or else it could become stale and meaningless.   Juggling keeps our lives balanced and keeps the love alive.

February 9, 2012

Infatuation

Infatuation is real and plenty of relationships have been desolved as a result of one being infatuated with another person.  Infatuation is like a " love at first sight" type of thing.  Unfortunately, this type of love does necessarily lead to a long lasting loving relationship.  The infatuation can be anything from the way a person looks to how much money they have in the bank.  We know that looks fade and that money fades too.  We have heard people say it over and over " we have grown apart", "the funds dried up", "she has gained a little weight", "he has gained a little weight", and the excuses are many.  What I hear is that people think that the person they once were head over heels about is now different and not how they use to be when they first met.  This is when we need to remember the vows, if we took them, we made when we first got married. " For Better of Worse", "Til Death do Us Part". 

Below are some definitions that describe what infatuation is:

1.  The state of being infatuated.

2.  The act of infatuating.

3.  Foolish or all absorbing passion or an instance of this: a mere infatuation that will not last.

4.   The object of a person's infatuation: 

February 8, 2012

Hyssop

Traditionally, it has been regarded as an oil of protection for homes from evil spirits. This herb uplifts the spirit to divine wisdom and prepares the soul for transition. It awakens closed hearts and minds, and instills tolerance and understanding, unconditional love and acceptance. It really is a cleanser, enabling a readability of spirit. When it is connected with the proper use of water and deep breathing, it is a most wonderful body cleanser.  It is also a bitter herb but is a very effective medicine for both colds and cuts. The oil is used to relieve anxiety, arthritis, asthma, respiratory infections, parasites, sore throats, cuts and wounds and can strengthen the lungs and help to prevent the recurrence of colds and flu. It can also aid in the prevention of infection.

This oil is particularly helpful in drying up secretions which makes it useful within the ultimate levels of dying. Some hospital protocols allow nurses to place one drop of the oil on the throat region for who are near death. This helps to relieve gurgling of secretions in the back of the throat. 

February 7, 2012

Ginseng

Both American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) and Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng) roots are taken orally as adaptogens, aphrodisiacs, nourishing stimulants, and in the treatment of type II diabetes, as well as for sexual dysfunction in men. The root is most often available in dried form, either whole or sliced. Ginseng leaf, although not as highly prized, is sometimes also used; as with the root, it is most often available in dried form.

This ingredient may also be found in some energy drinks, often the "tea" varieties; in these products, ginseng is usually present in subclinical doses and does not have measurable medicinal effects. It can be found in cosmetic preparations as well, but has not been shown to have clinically effective results.  Some drink are sold in health food stores and at you local Wal-Mart that contain Ginseng.  Read the label first to be sure that you are getting Ginseng and not an artificial flavoring. 

February 6, 2012

Friends

One of my first lessons of love was being able to be a friend first.  I have found that when two people have gotten to know each other, not sexually, that they develop trust and friendship.  I know it is a bit old fashioned, but I personally cannot love something I do not know about.  Being a friend does not have to lead to sex.  It is perfectly acceptable for a man and a woman to be friends and keep it on a friend level.  NO FRIENDS WITH BENEFITS.  I am not sure where this little phrase came from, but having a friend with benefits deal can be a messy deal, especially if the female friend gets pregnant.    It is important for all of us to have someone we can call friend.  Sometimes good friendship can lead to good marriages that are long lasting and eternal.  One thing I try to remember is that Jesus is a friend of mine and He sticks closer to me than any brother would ever stick to me.  

The dictionary gives this definition of what a friend is:

a person attached to another by feelings of affection or personal regard. (Married couples)

a person who gives assistance; patron; supporter: friends of the Boston Symphony.

a person who is on good terms with another; a person who isnot hostile: 

a member of the same nation, party, etc.                                                                          

  

February 5, 2012

EROS

In Greek Mythology, was the god of love.   His Roman counterpart was Cupid ("desire"). Some myths make him a primordial god, while in other myths, he is the son of Aphrodite.  Eros from a biblical standpoint refers to "intimate love", or romantic love; storge to “affection” or fondness; philia to “brotherly love”, or the love between family members or close friends; and agape refers to “selfless love”, or “charity” as it is translated in the Christian scriptures (from the Latin caritas, dearness).  The term erotic is derived from eros.Eros has also been used in philosophy and psychology in a wider sense, almost as an equivalent to "life energy".  Here are a few other words for Love; Agape, Philia, and Storge.

February 4, 2012

Damiana

Damiana leaves have been used as an aphrodisiac and to boost sexual potency by the native peoples of Mexico, including the Mayan Indians and is used for both male and female sexual stimulation, increased energy, asthma, depression, impotence and menstrual problems.  Historically damiana has been used to relieve anxiety, nervousness, and mild depression, especially if these symptoms have a sexual component. The herb is also used as a general tonic to improve wellness.  Damiana can be purchased in powder, capsule, or liquid form.  The liquid form is known as Liqueur.   Here is a basic recipe if you are using the powder or liquid form:   

1 cup steeped water

1 Teaspoon of powder, or liquid. (You can also take the capsule form and rink with a large glass of water).

* Honey, Agave Nectar, or another natural sweetener (NO WHITE SUGAR)

Steep water and Damiana together for about 15 - 20 minutes.  Sweeten to taste.

Don't forget to make a cup for your love, you both should have fun. (SMILE)

February 3, 2012

CINNAMON

Cinnamon is a spice obtained from the inner bark of several trees from the genus Cinnamomum that is used in both sweet and savoury foods. Cinnamon trees are native to South East Asia. The Hebrew Bible makes specific mention of the spice many times: first when Moses is commanded to use both sweet cinnamon and cassia in the holy anointing oil; in Proverbs where the lover's bed is perfumed with myrrh, aloes, and cinnamon; and in Song of Solomon, a song describing the beauty of his beloved, cinnamon scents her garments like the smell.  Cinnamon has been proposed for use as an insect repellent, have to try this one myself. Cinnamon leaf oil has been found to be very effective in killing mosquito larvae. The compounds cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, and anethole, that are contained in cinnamon leaf oil, were found to have the highest effectiveness against mosquito larvae of Lebanon.  The next time you and your sweetheart go to the beach don't forget to take some cinnamon along for the ride.  You can sprinkle it on your hot cocoa and other foods, and repell bugs at the same time.

February 2, 2012

   BASIL

Now this may come as a surprise to you but Basil was, and still is in some countries, a way to win over the person who you are in love with.  In India where it grew originally, it was held in great admiration and was actually used in courtrooms to have the Indians swear their oaths upon. In Italy however, basil symbolizes love. When an Italian suitor wanted to show his love he would place a sprig of basil in his hair to win his hearts desire. It is the same in Mexico where people would keep basil in their pockets in hopes that the man or woman that they loved would return their love forever.  In Romanina, they followed much of the same legend, where the man would give basil to his love and they would officially be engaged. In ancient Rome basil has also long been revered. They called it Basilescus, which refers to the Basilisk, the fire-breathing dragon. As legend says, if you took basil every day then it would ward off attacks from the beast. For many cultures and lands, basil was so much more than an herb to eat, it was a way of life.  Hmmm, wonder if this would work here in America?