Basil Does the Trick

Apparently, constipation is prevalent in the female population of Hong Kong. I have learnt this fact from more than one source - friends, relatives and the media. I was initially surprised by this piece of information, especially that I do not suffer from it at all (touch wood!). A quick browse in Louise Hay's dictionary of ailments finds that it is related to the difficult in releasing old ideas, being stuck in the past and sometimes being stingy. The corresponding affirmation is 'As I release the past, the new and fresh and vital enter. I allow life to flow through me.'

Perhaps collectively, these women are finding it hard to let go of their past hurts and are resistant to changes. I encountered a recipe from Spirit & Destiny which may be of help:

S & D, March 2009, p88

Basil pesto

Basil aids digestion and eases stomach cramps associated with constipation, so tuck into pesto if you're a bit bunged-up. A natural tranquiliser, basil helps the body relax, which also keeps things moving. Whenever you're in need, eating three spoonfuls of pesto - neat, tossed through pasta or spread on bruschetta - should do the trick.

Serves 4

Preparation time: 10 minutes

INGREDIENTS

- 50g basil leaves

- 1-2 garlic cloves, peeled

- 25g pine nuts

- 6 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

- 2 tbsp freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1) Roughly tear the basil and put into a mortar with the garlic, pine nuts and a little of the olive oil.

2) Pound with a pestle until the mixture forms a paste, or whizz together in a food processor.

3) Gradually pour in the rest of the olive oil, mixing together well.

4) Stir in the Parmesan. Can be served on bruschetta and salmon or mixed with pasta.