Ocimum campechianum

Ocimum campechianum

Ocimum campechianum, commonly known as Mexican basil or wild basil, is a plant traditionally used in various cultural practices but lacks specific documented traditional uses. Scientific evidence indicates that extracts from this plant can help control pH and reduce peroxide formation in beef burgers without significantly affecting their color or texture, suggesting potential applications in food preservation. The essential oil of Ocimum campechianum has been identified to have four main chemotypes, with eugenol being the most prevalent component. Additionally, studies show that this plant species can accumulate high levels of metals and exhibits strong antioxidant, antimicrobial, and mutagen-protective activities. Safety concerns are minimal; no major issues or drug interactions have been recorded in existing research.

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

  • Basil extract treatments helped control pH and reduced peroxide formation in beef burgers without significantly affecting color or texture. D PMID
  • Ocimum campechianum essential oil showed the most effective antioxidant, antimicrobial, and mutagen-protective properties among the tested oils. D PMID
  • The study identified four chemotypes of Ocimum campechianum essential oil, with eugenol being the most common. D PMID
  • Ocimum campechianum was among the plant species recorded at the bauxite mine site, but its specific heavy metal accumulation was not highlighted in this study. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Ocimum campechianum?

Ocimum campechianum (Ocimum campechianum) 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 Ocimum campechianum?

4 sourced findings are recorded for Ocimum campechianum; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Basil extract treatments helped control pH and reduced peroxide formation in beef burgers without significantly affecting color or texture.

How strong is the evidence for Ocimum campechianum?

The strongest finding for Ocimum campechianum carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is Ocimum campechianum safe? What are the side effects?

No major safety issues are recorded for Ocimum campechianum in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.

Does Ocimum campechianum interact with medications?

No drug interactions are recorded for Ocimum campechianum in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.

Is Ocimum campechianum 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 A Comparative Study on Chemical Compositions and Biological Activities of Four Amazonian Ecuador Essential Oils: Curcuma longa L. (Zingiberaceae), Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf, (Poaceae), Ocimum campechianum Mill. (Lamiaceae), and Zingib literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 Assessment of plant ecological variability and heavy metal accumulation potential in naturally growing plant species of Pakhar bauxite mine site, Jharkhand, India. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Essential Oil Variability of Ocimum campechianum Mill. in Southeastern Mexico: A Chemometric Approach. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 The Effects of Substituting BHT with a Microencapsulated Basil (Ocimum campechianum Mill.) Extract on Refrigerated Beef Burger Preservation. literature abstract metadata