Brussels, 21/10/2004 (Agence Europe) - Italy has asked for "Basilico Genovese" to be added to the list of Community products benefiting from a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO). This request was published in the Official Journal C259 of 21 October 2004. The geographical area where Basilico Genovese is grown is restricted to the area along the Tyrrhenian Sea in the administrative territory of the Liguria Region. The basil has been grown since the antiquity, especially as an ornamental plant and for its essential oils, which are reckoned to have therapeutic qualities. It was introduced by the Romans, who believed in its healing properties. These days, the plant is famous more for its culinary than its curative uses. It is used in particular to make Pesto Genovese, a typical Italian product, which was born in Liguria and is known throughout the world.