OF SUNDRY HERBS
39
it is supposed to be endowed with both beneficent and sinister qualities, whilst in the East there is no herb with more sacred associations. Tulasi (basil) is a holy herb to the Hindoos, and is grown near every temple and dwelling that it may protect those who cultivate it from misfortune, and guide them to Heaven. It is sacred to Vishnu, and
nations
"
"
"
propitious," perfumed," devil-destroying," are only a few of the epithets applied to it. De Gubernatis says of
"
Under the mystery of this herb is shrouded without doubt the god-creator himself. The herb tulasi is consecrated to Vishnu but it is no less adored by the votaries
it
:
;
Krishna, the popular incarnation of the god Vishnu, has also adopted this herb for his worship. When an Indian dies they place on his breast a leaf of tulasi when of
Siva.
;
he is dead they wash the head of the corpse with water in which flax-seeds and tulasi leaves have been dropped." Good fortune awaits those who build their house on a spot where tulasi has grown freely, and there is no forgiveness in this world or the next for any one who wilfully uproots It must never be picked at all except for some worthy it. " Mother Tulasi, be thou purpose, and this prayer is said I be merciful unto me, if with care, propitious gather you O Tulasi, Mother of the world." In Malabar sweet basil is very largely cultivated, and tulasi plays an important part when the Maharajah of Travancore performs the Sacred Ceremony of tulabharam. In the Deccan basil is regarded with equal veneration, and is planted on the altar :
before each
Brahmin house.
among Western
nations one of the oldest hatred and abuse. The ancient Greeks believed basil must be sown with words of abuse or else it would not flourish, and 1;o this day the French have " " semer le basilic Both amongst the proverb, slandering. Western and Eastern nations basil is associated with death, and in Crete the plant is associated with the Evil One. Yet It is curious that
associations with basil
is
Western Europe
is
in
against witches between those
!
it
The
who
regarded as of sovereign power
Italians say basil engenders sympathy wear it; and to Moldavians it is an