Sweet Basil between the Soul and the Table—Transformation of Traditional Knowledge on Ocimum basilicum L. in Bulgaria

The study tracks the utilization of Ocimum basilicum L. (sweet basil)—a garden plant popular for its ritual and ornamental value in past, that is currently applied various forms ways as medicine, food, insect repellent, etc.—in Bulgaria. Previous data Bulgarian rural home gardens showed a significant number preserved local landraces; however, it remained unclear how people perceive large varietal diversity this species traditions related to use are preserved. We combined literature review on cultural sweet basil breeding genetic resources with an online questionnaire, directed adult laypeople, sought access different aspects past (recalled) present knowledge. identification skills participants were tested using images landraces foreign varieties. Responses from 220 potted “Genovese”-type individual was most frequently identified (89.9%), followed by two examples flower. Participants who grow or used more varied had significantly better skills. reported while ritual/symbolic devalued during Communism regime (1945–1989). Food religious uses negatively associated but presently, tendency completely reversed. Preferences informal exchange seeds seed-saving practices discussed.