Basil is a member of the Mint family, and like most other mints, is mainly used in medicine for its digestive and anti-gas properties. Herbalists also recommend it for headaches and anxiety. As a spice, basil can be used liberally in foods. Peppermint is an excellent carminative, having a relaxing effect on the muscles of the digestive system, combats flatulence, and stimulates bile and digestive juice flow.

Ingredients:
2 cups water
1 cup vinegar
1 cup basil or mint leaves
6-1/2 cups sugar
1 bottle fruit pectin

Directions:
Combine water, vinegar, basil or mint leaves and sugar, bring to a boil. Add fruit pectin; heat to full rolling boil and boil 1 minute. Remove leaves.

Seal in hot, sterilized jars.

Recipe makes 12, six-ounce jars of Basil or Mint Jelly.

Note: You may want to use a little green food coloring as the jelly tends to look fairly pale and unappetizing without it.

Beyond Food: Mint for Instant Energy?

A study suggests this may very well be so. Athletes who dabbed peppermint oil on their collars ran faster and did more push-ups when exposed to peppermint scent than with other or no scents at all. The theory is that peppermint boosts mood, so you perform better without working harder.

See also:
Peach Basil Iced Tea
Moroccan Mint Tea

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