Basil Basil (Egypt)

Why Egypt?

Egypt is highly regarded for its production of basil linalool, a variety of sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum) known for its high linalool content, which gives it a distinctive floral and spicy aroma. The country’s warm and sunny climate, with its long growing season and fertile soils, creates the ideal environment for cultivating basil linalool. Particularly in the fertile regions of the Nile Delta and Nile Valley, the combination of nutrient-rich soil and optimal weather conditions allows for the growth of Basil plants that are rich in essential oils. The farmers we partner with in Egypt have extensive experience and expertise in cultivating aromatic plants which helps provide high-quality yields. The linalool-rich Basil oil produced in Egypt is highly sought after for its use in perfumes, flavoring, and aromatherapy due to its soothing and uplifting properties. The blend of favorable environmental conditions, agricultural expertise, and dedication to quality makes Egypt one of the leading producers of Basil linalool, recognized for its superior aroma and therapeutic benefits.

How does it work?

Through this farming network, thousands of people have diversified their crops by adding this lucrative plant. Our sourcing partner has also established a specialist-led academic enrichment program, which offers classroom instruction and extracurricular activities for 400 children in the sourcing area.

Co-Impact Story

Our partner owns a community school that runs an evening program to help students from the local community to have access to quality education. Also, during covid, the doTERRA Healing Hands Foundation funded a mask sewing project that benefited many farmers, including 200 Basil farmers from the partner’s farms in Gharbeya community (near the factory). In 2020, our partner started a basil project in Beni Suef where they helped farmers to cultivate 1250 Feddans (524 hectares) with Basil. This

project had a very big impact on farmers in Beni Suef and helped them financially to a great extent. This project had the following impact on the supply chain:

1. Empowering Farmers
   500 Farmers: Our sourcing partner directly engaged with 500 farmers in Beni Suef. These farmers became partners in a fragrant revolution, cultivating basil with care and dedication. Skills Enhancement: Through training programs, farmers learned modern agricultural techniques, sustainable practices, and the art of Basil cultivation. This knowledge helped empower them to optimize yields and enhance crop quality.

2. Economic Upliftment
   Increased Income: Basil farming became a great source of income for these farmers. The sale of basil leaves to our sourcing partner provided a steady stream of revenue. Market Access: By connecting farmers to a well-established supply chain, our sourcing partner translates their hard work into tangible economic benefits. Basil, once a humble herb, now holds immense value.