Basil
Ocimum
Ocimum is a genus of plants traditionally used in various herbal practices. While specific traditional uses for Ocimum species are not well-documented, some species like O. gratissimum and O. lamiifolium have been utilized in local medicine. Scientific evidence suggests that Ocimum contains bioactive compounds with antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. A study identified 59 coumarins in Ocimum, indicating potential anti-cancer activity through interactions with multiple human targets. Additionally, extracts from O. lamiifolium leaves demonstrated significant antibacterial activity against multidrug-resistant wound bacterial isolates compared to other plant parts. High-dose MgO-NPs were found to increase essential oil concentration by 61% in sweet basil but reduced fresh weight. No major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded for Ocimum species, though further research is needed to fully understand its potential benefits and risks.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- Ocimum gratissimum exhibits multiple bioactive compounds with diverse therapeutic properties including antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory effects.
- A comprehensive analysis identified 59 coumarins in Ocimum with potential anti-cancer activity through interactions with multiple human targets.
- The study found that extracts from Ocimum lamiifolium leaves showed significant antibacterial activity against multidrug-resistant wound bacterial isolates compared to other plant parts.
- The study found that various treatments of silicon, nano-fertilizer, and chelated micronutrient fertilizer significantly improved growth, pigment accumulation, essential oil yield, and mineral content in Ocimum basilicum under aquaponics.
- High-dose MgO-NPs increased essential oil concentration by 61% in sweet basil, but reduced fresh weight.
- Ocimum basilicum treated with 5% or 7% Kappaphycus alvarezii extracts showed increased plant height, biomass, and essential oil production compared to control.
- The study identified potential bioactive compounds from Ocimum sanctum that interact with targets involved in respiratory disease pathways, supporting its use but requiring further experimental validation.
Frequently asked questions
What is Basil?
Basil (Ocimum) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Basil?
7 sourced findings are recorded for Basil; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Ocimum gratissimum exhibits multiple bioactive compounds with diverse therapeutic properties including antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory effects.
How strong is the evidence for Basil?
The strongest finding for Basil carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Basil safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Basil in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Basil interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Basil in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Basil?
Basil is also known as: базилик, Basilic.
Is Basil a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Antibacterial activity of selected plants used in traditional medicine from Gedeo zone, Ethiopia against multidrug-resistant wound bacterial isolates. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Coumarin metabolites in Ocimum: chemical diversity, biosynthetic pathways, and network pharmacology-based prediction of multi-target anticancer potential. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Network pharmacology-based therapeutic illustration of Indian medicinal plants in respiratory disorders. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Improving Essential Oil, Pigments, and Mineral Accumulation in Basil Through Integrated Silicon and Nano-Fertilizer Treatments in Aquaponics. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Evaluation of MgO Nanoparticle Foliar Treatment on the Early Stages of Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) Vegetation. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Ocimum gratissimum: Chemical Composition, Phytochemical Properties, Antioxidants, and Pharmacological Activities: A Review. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Impact of Kappaphycus alvarezii Biostimulant on Growth, Biochemistry, Essential Oil, and Rhizosphere of Basil (Ocimum basilicum) Plants. literature abstract metadata