06/12/2026
Holy basil and lemon balm are two of my favorite herbs I grow every summer. When they go to seed in the fall, I trim the seeded flowers back and hang dry to preserve the seeds for next year. Holy basil (Tulsi) is minty, spicy, and has a hint of black licorice flavor. For centuries, holy basil has been grown in curtyards or temples to purify the atmosphere, foster meditation, and protect the household. Lemon balm is incredibly smooth and smells amazing when cut back. It is known for its calming and anxiety reducing properties. Lemon balm will come back every year when planted in the ground and is said to help control pests. Both are excellent in teas brewed hot and served cold on a hot summer day. Sometimes I add it in fresh in regular old iced tea to give it a little something extra. I'll soon have these ready in dried form for teas and other uses. 💚💚💚
