Basil has been used for centuries by many cultures. Ancient Egyptians and Greeks would bury their dead with basil as it was believed to provide protection on the journey to the afterlife. In Judaism, basil has been used during times of fasting for strength. Beyond religious and spiritual ceremonies, basil has been widely used in the culinary world and is a mainstay in Italian cuisine. And as an essential oil, it’s touted for its uplifting and soothing abilities on the mind and body.