FolkKB

Basil

Ocimum basilicum

Ocimum basilicum, commonly known as sweet basil, is a widely cultivated herb native to tropical and warm temperate climates. Traditionally, its use has not been extensively documented in specific medical traditions. Scientific studies have shown that Kappaphycus alvarezii extracts at 5% and 7% can enhance basil plant growth and essential oil production, while high doses of MgO-NPs increase essential oil concentration but may reduce the plant's fresh weight. Additionally, research has identified five distinct genotypes with high bioactive potential and essential oil yields, contributing to germplasm characterization. Studies have also observed that PT (likely a specific treatment or condition) reduces CO₂ assimilation and alters biometric traits in basil plants, while ST (another specific treatment or condition) impairs root growth and induces oxidative stress. Safety concerns for Ocimum basilicum are minimal; no major issues have been recorded. There is currently no evidence of drug interactions with this plant.

At a glance
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

  • The study found that Kappaphycus alvarezii extracts at 5% and 7% increased basil plant growth and essential oil production. D PMID
  • The study found that high doses of MgO-NPs increased essential oil concentration in sweet basil but reduced plant fresh weight. D PMID
  • The study found that 5 µM KN was the most effective concentration, significantly influencing growth, photosynthetic efficiency, and essential oil biosynthesis in O. basilicum. D PMID
  • The study identified five distinct basil genotypes with high bioactive potential and EO yields, contributing to germplasm characterization. D PMID
  • PT reduced CO₂ assimilation and altered biometric traits, while ST impaired root growth and induced oxidative stress in basil plants. D PMID
  • The study optimized a basil leaf extract nanoemulsion with weak antibacterial activity against P. acnes but showed potential as a natural acne treatment option. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Basil?

Basil (Ocimum basilicum) 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?

6 sourced findings are recorded for Basil; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The study found that Kappaphycus alvarezii extracts at 5% and 7% increased basil plant growth and essential oil production.

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 душистый, 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

  1. T2 Optimization and Formulation of Nanoemulsion Ex-tracts Basil Leaves (Ocimum basilicum L.) and Testing of Anti-Acne Activity against Propionibacterium acnes. literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 Unraveling the regulatory role of kinetin (6-furfurylaminopurine) in modulating growth, physio-biochemical attributes, antioxidant defense, and essential oil biosynthesis in Ocimum basilicum L. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Physiological and biochemical responses of sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) to polyethylene micro- and nanoplastics exposure. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Chemical profiling and chemotypic diversity of basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) genotypes: a large-scale evaluation of bioactive compounds and antioxidant capacity. literature abstract metadata
  5. T2 Evaluation of MgO Nanoparticle Foliar Treatment on the Early Stages of Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) Vegetation. literature abstract metadata
  6. T2 Impact of Kappaphycus alvarezii Biostimulant on Growth, Biochemistry, Essential Oil, and Rhizosphere of Basil (Ocimum basilicum) Plants. literature abstract metadata

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