Soups

Basil Leaf, Fresh Turmeric and Fish Head Soup

traditionally associated with sharpening appetite, aiding digestion, and supporting cognitive clarity

In short: Basil Leaf, Fresh Turmeric and Fish Head Soup is a soup that traditionally associated with sharpening appetite, aiding digestion, and supporting cognitive clarity. It is most often made for digestive wellness. Total time about 35 min. Key ingredients: large fish head.

Prep
15 min
Cook
20 min
Total
35 min
Makes
600–900 ml
Basil Leaf, Fresh Turmeric and Fish Head Soup

Why people make this soup

Basil is one of those herbs with so many names that even experienced cooks sometimes get confused — in Thailand it is called “holy basil” and used liberally in stir-fries; in the Cantonese-speaking world it is known as “nine-storey tower” (九层塔); in Chaoshan cuisine it is called “golden not-for-trade” (金不换); and in northern China it goes by yet another name entirely. The botanical name is simply Ocimum basilicum. What all these traditions share is the recognition that this aromatic herb has a remarkable ability to awaken the appetite, clear digestive stagnation, and dispel dampness.

Nourilo combines fresh basil with fresh turmeric root and fish head to create a deeply aromatic soup whose smell alone is extraordinary — warm, golden, and completely appetite-opening. Traditional Chinese food therapy considers regular consumption of this soup to also support cognitive sharpness and mental clarity with ageing.

Safety first — read before you cook

This is a traditional food, not a treatment. Please check with your doctor or pharmacist before making it a regular part of your diet if you:

  • are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are cooking for a young child;
  • take regular medicines — especially blood thinners, blood-pressure, diabetes or immune-suppressing drugs;
  • have a kidney, liver or heart condition, or a known food allergy.

Stop eating it and seek advice if you notice an allergic reaction or feel unwell. Safety notes reviewed 8 October 2026 · How we write safety notes

Members only

Unlock the full method & Nourilo's tips

One payment, lifetime access to every one of our 2,344 recipes — step-by-step methods, preparation tips and serving notes.

  • Full step-by-step method for this and all 2,344 recipes
  • Nourilo's Tips — sourcing, substitutions and serving notes
  • One-time payment · card, Apple Pay or Google Pay · no subscription, no renewals

Checking your access…

Spot an error? Report a correction

Comments

Loading comments…