Basil/ Ocimum basilicum
Egyptian Basil
Seed
Leaves
The economic alternative
Basil has a better flavor when dried, as opposed to fresh. Dried basil has anise, pepper and minty undertones and it somehow sweet yet savory at the same time.
Basil seeds have a long history of use in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine.
They look similar to sesame seeds but are black, and similar to nigella seed but are smaller.
When soaked in water, the seeds of several basil varieties become gelatinous, and are used in Asian drinks and desserts.