Basil
Basil is in the mint family. It originates from the East, particularly India, where it has been cultivated for 5,000 years. My favorite thing about basil is that it is toxic to mosquitoes, which is a specie that can be very deadly in the dewy morning hours on the farm.
Basil can be stored for up to a week in a perforated plastic bag in the refrigerator. If storing for a longer time length, it is best to blanch and freeze. Drying basil tends to diminish and alter the flavor.