Essential Oil of the Month: Sweet Basil
Sweet Basil: (Ocimum basilicum)
“Basil is an herb of kings and of lovers; it hath a warmth that awakens memory, and a sweetness that stirs the soul.”
- F. Marion McNeill, The Scots Kitchen (1929)
The name “Basil” has a rather regal origin, stemming from the Greek word basileus, which means "king" or "royalty" (Ocimum basilicum). It has long been considered a spiritually significant plant in some cultures, having been worshipped as a sacred plant, and used to make holy water and bless church altars in the Greek Orthodox religion and throughout Eastern Europe.
Ancient Greece - Basil had royal connotations (from basileus, meaning “king”), and was considered sacred, reserved specially for nobles. It was used for love and protection.
Still today, it’s worshipped with rituals, prayers, and offerings, planted near homes, the center of the courtyards, and temples to ward off evil and attract blessings. It is seen as a symbol of spiritual purity.
In Ayurvedic and traditional medicine Holy Basil has been used for centuries to calm and relax, sharpen the mind, and even ward off negativity. Sometimes referred to as “the elixir of life,” Tulsi essential oil is revered for its cleansing, healing, and spiritual properties. It is believed to attract positive energy, foster a closer connection to the divine, and promote mental clarity.
Sweet Basil and Holy Basil differ in a few ways:
Sweet Basil " (Ocimum basilicum)
SPIRITUAL AND ENERGETIC USES FOR BASIL
Protection & Energy:
- In many cultures, Basil is believed to ward off evil, illness, and negativity.
European folklore used Basil in protection spells and to banish bad energy.
Carried in pockets, grown at doorways or hung above doors for protection and energy.
Home Protection:
- Add Basil oil to water and spray doorways or sacred spaces. (Avoid sensitive surfaces)
- Combine with salt, rosemary, and/or lavender and sprinkle around doorways.
- Dilute with carrier oil and anoint pulse points to create an energetic shield.
Use before work, meditation, or social interactions for grounding.
Basil for Love & Attraction:
“Basil, being sacred to Venus, is believed to be a powerful herb for lovers and the forces of nature that bring two souls together.”
- Hilda M. Ransome, The Sacred Herbs of the Sun (1924)
- Sacred to Venus, the goddess of love, beauty, and fertility, Basil oil is thought to stimulate passion, enhance sensuality and emotional connection. It was also thought to promote communication between lovers, helping to resolve misunderstandings or foster emotional connection.
Folklore suggests placing Basil under your pillow for dreams of your lover.
A Love-Enhancing Basil Ritual:
Ingredients:
- Sweet Basil essential oil
Rose or ylang ylang essential oil (optional)
Small candle (red or pink)
Clear or rose quartz crystal
A small piece of paper.
Instructions:
Set the mood by lighting your candle and diffusing basil essential oil with rose and/or ylang ylang essential oil. You can also place a drop of the essential oil diluted in carrier oil on your pulse points.
On the piece of paper, write down your desires for love—whether it's attracting a new partner or improving an existing relationship.
As the candle burns, breathe in the sweet scent and energy of love filling your life, and trust the universe to guide you toward love and connection.
PRECAUTIONS: Not to be used during pregnancy, while nursing or on children. Possible skin irritant. Always dilute to less than 2% and do a patch test before using on skin. Not recommended to use undiluted in baths. As always, consult your physician before using, especially if you have any health concerns or are taking medication.
