It’s finally time to plant annuals outdoors! Shop at farmers markets and grocery stores to find many herb and vegetable plants. I bought the potted basil plants pictured below for only $2.99 at Trader Joe’s. I’ll separate and transplant all the plants into containers resulting in 10-12 very inexpensive basil plants. Did you know that there are many basil varieties including lemon, lime, cinnamon, and Greek, in addition to the standard Genovese and sweet basils? Try making a pesto recipe with several varieties and it’ll knock your socks off!

Basil essential oil, which is a very concentrated form extracted from the flowering tops and leaves, is an analgesic, antidepressant, antifungal, antispasmodic, antiviral, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, expectorant, insect repellant and muscle relaxant. It’s a natural remedy that smells and tastes great, too! It boosts the flavor of cooked food and smoothies plus adds a kick to plain water.

Visit my new website, www.VitalityJourney.net, to purchase basil essential oil through the Young Living banner.

And here’s a basil tip – don’t refrigerate it or it’ll turn brown in a hurry. Instead, cut the stems and put them in water at room temperature to keep basil alive until you’re ready to use it. And try fresh basil leaves in your infusers.

Make it a vital day!

Bea White

www.VitalityJourney.net

www.Facebook.com/BringBackVitality

My book, Bring Back Vitality, is available from www.ViviSphere.com, www.Amazon.com and www.BarnesAndNoble.com.