Introduction to Kemangi

Kemangi, A Nutrient-Rich Herb

Kemangi (Ocimum basilicum L.) is a plant that serves both as a vegetable and a medicinal herb in Indonesia. It has bright green leaves with a strong aroma, and its small flowers range from white to purple. The name “Kemangi” comes from the Greek word basilikón phytón, which means “royal plant.” It is believed that Kemangi was used in the production of perfumes for royalty, which is why it earned the title “royal plant.”

Kemangi is rich in nutrients and antibacterial compounds such as vitamins A, B, C, proteins, fats, calcium, phosphorus, anethol, arginine, beta-carotene, magnesium, iron, and flavonoids. It is believed to have originated from India over 5,000 years ago and has spread to various parts of the world. There is also evidence suggesting Kemangi may have come from Eastern countries rather than India. Ancient records from 807 AD mention the use of sweet basil in the Hunan region of China, indicating that Kemangi was already used in that area during that time.

Binomial Name

Ocimum basilicum L

Klasifikasi Ilmiah

Kingdom

Plantae

Subkingdom

Tracheobionta

Superdivisi

Spermatophyta

Division

Magnoliophyta

Class

Magnoliopsida

Subclass

Asteridae

Ordo

Lamiales

Family

Lamiaceae

Genus

Ocimum

Species

Ocium basilicum L

Origin of Kemangi

Kemangi: India, Egypt, or China?

Kemangi is a popular herb and spice used worldwide. It is believed to have originated from India and has been cultivated for over 5,000 years. The plant spread across the globe, reaching various regions and countries. In ancient Egypt, Kemangi was cultivated as early as 4,000 years ago, where it was used in the making of balms. There is another theory that suggests Kemangi may have originated from the East rather than India. Historical records from 807 AD indicate that sweet basil (Kemangi) was used in the Hunan region of China at that time.

Kemangi spread worldwide primarily through trade routes. It made its way into the Middle East and the Mediterranean region, brought by ancient traders. It is still used today in Italian cuisine, particularly in the famous pesto. The plant spread into Europe during the Middle Ages, where it was cultivated both as a food and for medicinal purposes. Kemangi was introduced to the Americas by European colonizers. Today, it is grown in many countries across continents, including Egypt, Southern Europe, Morocco, Indonesia, and California.

Interesting Facts

  • In its native India, Kemangi is considered a sacred plant, believed to be a powerful protector, and is often planted around temples.
  • The ancient Greeks and Romans associated Kemangi with hatred, misfortune, and poverty.
  • In the 1500s, doctors of that era believed that if a person smelled Kemangi, scorpions would live in their brain for two days.

Nutritional Content of Kemangi

Per (100 gram)
Energy

43 kal

Total Fat

0,3 gr

Water

85 gr

Vitamin B1

0,06 mg

Vitamin B2

0,1 mg

Vitamin B3

1,2 mg

Vitamin C

30 mg

Total Carbohydrate

7,5 g

Protein

5,5 g

Dietary Fiber

8,4 g

Calcium

35 mg

Phosphorus

106 mg

Iron

1 mg

Potassium

457,1 mg

Sodium

10 mg

Main Health Benefits of Kemangi

Supports Digestive Health

Kemangi contains active compounds such as linalool, eugenol, and estragole that help maintain digestive health. These compounds aid in speeding up the digestion process and prevent constipation, supporting overall gut health.

Prevents the Risk of Diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic condition characterized by high blood sugar levels. Kemangi contains chlorogenic acid, which helps reduce the risk of diabetes by increasing insulin levels that regulate blood sugar in the body.

Reduces the Risk of Heart Disease

Kemangi leaves contain essential nutrients such as magnesium, potassium, ascorbic acid (vitamin C), folic acid, and eugenol. Magnesium and potassium help lower blood pressure, relax blood vessels, and improve blood circulation. Eugenol in kemangi can block calcium channels, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease. Ascorbic acid and folic acid in kemangi also help in maintaining heart health.

Boosts the Immune System

Kemangi is rich in vitamins B and C, as well as antioxidants like eugenol, anthocyanins, and beta-carotene. These antioxidants help strengthen the immune system by fighting free radicals and preventing cellular damage, thus reducing the likelihood of the body contracting diseases.

Prevents Cancer

Kemangi can help reduce the risk of cancer due to its content of eugenol and estragole. These bioactive compounds have anticancer properties that assist in fighting cancer cells and may aid in cancer treatment. The phytochemicals in kemangi protect the body from risks such as mouth cancer, skin cancer, lung cancer, and liver cancer.

Reduces Inflammation and Infections

Kemangi contains essential oils such as linalool, cirocellol, and eugenol, which help the body fight bacterial infections and reduce inflammation. Conditions such as intestinal inflammation, sore throat, and arthritis can benefit from the anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of these compounds.

Improves Mental Health

Regular consumption of kemangi can help stabilize mental health and reduce stress. The compound linalool has a calming effect, which reduces anxiety and alleviates symptoms of depression. Additionally, kemangi can help keep the mind clear and reduce the risk of dementia. The vitamin C content also supports brain health.

Supports Bone and Dental Health

Kemangi is rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and calcium, which are essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth. The eugenol in kemangi has antibacterial and antifungal properties that can help maintain oral health. Furthermore, kemangi’s magnesium, calcium, and vitamin C content contribute to bone density and can help prevent osteoporosis.

Varieties of Kemangi

Here Are the Varieties of Kemangi with Lush Leaves!

Kemangi Eiffel

This variety is also suitable for cultivation in lowland areas and features green leaves. Kemangi Eiffel has wide, oval-shaped leaves. Like Kemangi Komangi, it has a slow flowering intensity and is known for its high yields.

Kemangi Banyuwangi

Originating from Banyuwangi, this variety is well-suited for lowland cultivation. It has green leaves that are long and wide with an elongated shape, similar to Kemangi Komangi.

Kemangi Bojonegoro

A variety that thrives in lowland areas, Kemangi Bojonegoro has green leaves that are wide and oval in shape. It shares the slow flowering trait seen in other superior varieties.

Kemangi Genovese

Known as Italian basil, this variety is widely cultivated. It has large, glossy leaves with a spicy flavor and a fresh aroma. Kemangi Genovese is easy to grow from seeds and can be cultivated in pots, making it a popular choice for home gardeners.

Kemangi Jeruk Nipis

Also called Lime Basil, this variety gets its name from its citrusy aroma, which resembles that of lime. The leaves are smaller than those of the Genovese variety, with a sharp, pointed shape and serrated edges. Kemangi Jeruk Nipis is easy to grow from seeds and can also be cultivated in pots.

Sparkle
Petir

Did You Know?

The most popular variety of kemangi abroad is Kemangi Genovese, due to its large, broad, and bright green leaves.

Economic Potential and Market

The Economic Potential of Kemangi!

Kemangi is a popular vegetable for lalapan (a traditional raw vegetable dish) with a distinct taste and aroma. Interestingly, kemangi is much more expensive overseas compared to its price in Indonesia. The price of kemangi abroad can reach up to IDR 165,000 per kilogram, while in Indonesia, it is only around IDR 10,000 per kilogram. The export potential of kemangi is high, especially when shipped in large quantities (around 5 tons). The profit from exporting kemangi can reach IDR 700-800 million. Kemangi can be exported to countries that highly demand herbs like Europe and the Americas.

Interesting Fact

The economic potential of exporting kemangi could reach up to IDR 800 million when shipped to various countries in Europe.

Read More Related Articles About Kemangi on Kebunindo

Explore more articles on the kemangi commodity at Kebunindo. Learn in-depth about cultivation, health benefits, and the economic potential of kemangi.

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