Basil, also known as basil, goldenrod, St. Joseph's wort, and sweet basil, is a dwarf, young herbaceous plant of the Lamiaceae family. It is native to the tropical regions of Asia. It grows between 20-60 centimeters in height. Its leaves are opposite, light green and long with fine hairs, about 1.5 cm long and 1-3 cm wide. It carries a powerful, pungent, fragrant odor that tastes like aniseed. Basil is very sensitive to cold and grows best in hot and dry conditions. Most of the common species are annuals and some are perennials, including African blue basil and Thai divine basil. Basil is commonly used in Western recipes and Thai cuisine, and is also used in the three-cup dishes of Chinese cuisine. In addition, basil can be used as an herbal medicine to treat bruises and snake and insect bites.