hương nhu

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The Vietnamese word "hương nhu" refers to "holy basil," which is a type of herb that is commonly used in Vietnamese cuisine and traditional medicine. It has a strong, aromatic scent and is known for its health benefits.

Basic Explanation:

• Meaning: "Hương nhu" (holy basil) is a fragrant herb that is often used in cooking and has medicinal properties.
• Usage: You can use "hương nhu" in sentences when talking about cooking or health remedies.

Example Sentence:

• "Tôi thích thêm hương nhu vào món phở." (I like to add holy basil to my pho.)

Advanced Usage:

• In Vietnamese culture, "hương nhu" is not just used in cooking; it is also a symbol of purity and is often used in religious ceremonies. You might hear it mentioned in discussions about traditional medicine or herbal remedies.

Word Variants:

• There are several types of basil in Vietnamese, and "hương nhu" specifically refers to holy basil (Ocimum sanctum). There are other types of basil used in different dishes, such as "basil" (húng quế) which is used in pho and other dishes.

Different Meanings:

• While "hương nhu" primarily refers to holy basil, the word "hương" means "aroma" or "fragrance" and "nhu" can imply "to desire" or "to crave." Together, they emphasize the aromatic quality of the herb.

Synonyms:

• Some synonyms or related terms include:
  • Húng quế: This refers to sweet basil, which is different from holy basil but often used in similar contexts.
  • Rau thơm: This means "fragrant herbs" in general, which can include various types of herbs used in cooking.

Cultural Note:

Holy basil is not only a culinary herb but also has a significant role in Vietnamese culture, especially in offerings to ancestors and in ceremonies. It is often associated with wellness and spiritual practices.

Academic

noun

1. holy basil