Basil is a versatile and aromatic herb with significant health benefits. Its bioactive compounds provide anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and stress-reducing properties, and has been used to treat many conditions over the centuries in traditional medicines.
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| Basil rich in medicinal properties |
Basil has a rich history in traditional medicine systems around the world and is supported by modern scientific research. Its potential benefits for digestive health, cardiovascular health, and skin health make it a valuable addition to both culinary and medicinal applications.
What is Basil?
Basil, scientifically known as Ocimum basilicum, is a fragrant herb that grows as a small bush, typically reaching heights of 30-60 cm (12-24 inches). It has glossy, oval-shaped leaves that are usually green but can also be purple, depending on the variety. The plant produces small white or pink flowers arranged in clusters.
Basil is native to tropical regions from central Africa to Southeast Asia. It thrives in warm climates and well-drained soil, often found in gardens, farms, and greenhouses. Today, it is widely cultivated worldwide, particularly in Mediterranean countries, India, and Southeast Asia.
Primary Compounds in Basil
The primary bioactive compounds found in basil include:
• Essential Oils: Including eugenol, linalool, cineole, geraniol and methyl chavicol, which contribute to its distinctive aroma and therapeutic properties.
• Flavonoids: Such as vicenin and orientin, known for their antioxidant effects.
• Polyphenols: Including rosmarinic acid, which has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in vitamins A, K, and C, as well as manganese and iron.
Traditional Medicinal Uses
Basil has been used in various traditional medicine systems:
Ayurveda
Used to treat respiratory disorders, digestive issues, and stress. It is also believed to have adaptogenic properties.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
Used to improve digestion, alleviate headaches, and enhance kidney function.
Mediterranean and European Medicine
Utilized as a digestive aid, for relieving gas and bloating, and as an antimicrobial agent.
Health Benefits of Basil
Anti-inflammatory
Basil’s eugenol and rosmarinic acid help reduce inflammation, potentially benefiting conditions like arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.
Antimicrobial
Effective against a range of bacteria, viruses, and fungi due to its essential oils.
Antioxidant
High in antioxidants, which protect cells from oxidative stress and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Digestive Health
Improves digestion, relieves gas, and reduces bloating.
Stress Relief
Acts as an adaptogen, helping the body cope with stress and anxiety.
Cardiovascular Health
Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties support heart health and may help reduce blood pressure.
Skin Health
Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties make it useful for treating skin conditions like acne.
Clinical Research on Basil
A 2020 triple-blind study tested 144 patients who had been diagnosed with migraine headaches. The patients were divided into four groups, which included a basil essential oil group, a placebo group and a NSAID group. After three months, the basil essential oil groups had significantly lower pain intensity and frequency of attacks compared to the other groups.
Several studies have found that basil and its essential oils are significantly antibacterial and antifungal.
A 2022 study from the University of Bahrain analyzed research testing basil against different forms of cancer. They analyzed 16 studies that wound that basil leaves have significant anticancer activity. It was also found to slow tumor growth in some of this research.
A 2023 review of research from Indonesia’s University of Padjadjaran investigated the use and effects of basil. They found that it had significant antiviral potential, against both DNA and RNA viruses. It also has significant antibacterial properties against gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria. This is added to their findings of it having significant antifungal effects.
The researchers found that basil’s ability to treat fevers, flu, colds, digestive conditions and lung conditions was well founded.
A 2021 study from the University of Central Chile studied basil’s effects and properties, and found that it had, “several health benefits, such as the prevention of type-2 diabetes, cardio-protection, antioxidant and antimicrobial effects, and anti-inflammatory, antiulcer, anticoagulant, and anti-depressant properties, among others.”
What is the difference between Basil and Holy Basil?
Both basil and Holy Basil belong to the same plant family and share some things. But they differ significantly in terms of their uses, flavors, and cultural significance.
Both plants are medicinal, and both species are from the Ocimum family. Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is often considered a culinary spice, while Holy basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum) is revered as a medicinal and spiritual therapeutic.
Tulsi is also considered sacred in Hindu culture.
Basil’s leaves are typically more rounded, and Holy Basil has smaller, ovate-shaped leaves with serrated edges. It will often have purple veins with a slightly fuzzy texture. The stems of Tulsi are often hairy and can be purple in color.
Basil renders a sweet, slightly peppery flavor. Holy Basil has a more pungent, spicy flavor. Tulsi is often described as having a stronger aroma and is less commonly used in cooking.
Basil is typically used in Italian dishes, salads, and sauces. It is a staple in recipes like pesto and pizza sauce. Holy Basil will often be used in traditional Indian recipes such as curries. It can also be served as a tea or supplement, to render its health benefits.
Scientific References
Calderón Bravo H, Vera Céspedes N, Zura-Bravo L, Muñoz LA. Basil Seeds as a Novel Food, Source of Nutrients and Functional Ingredients with Beneficial Properties: A Review. Foods. 2021 Jun 24;10(7):1467. doi: 10.3390/foods10071467.
Azizah NS, Irawan B, Kusmoro J, Safriansyah W, Farabi K, Oktavia D, Doni F, Miranti M. Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.)-A Review of Its Botany, Phytochemistry, Pharmacological Activities, and Biotechnological Development. Plants (Basel). 2023 Dec 13;12(24):4148. doi: 10.3390/plants12244148.
Perna S, Alawadhi H, Riva A, Allegrini P, Petrangolini G, Gasparri C, Alalwan TA, Rondanelli M. In Vitro and In Vivo Anticancer Activity of Basil (Ocimum spp.): Current Insights and Future Prospects. Cancers (Basel). 2022 May 11;14(10):2375. doi: 10.3390/cancers14102375.
Suppakul P, Miltz J, Sonneveld K, Bigger SW. Antimicrobial properties of basil and its possible application in food packaging. J Agric Food Chem. 2003 May 21;51(11):3197-207. doi: 10.1021/jf021038t.
Ugbogu OC, Emmanuel O, Agi GO, Ibe C, Ekweogu CN, Ude VC, Uche ME, Nnanna RO, Ugbogu EA. A review on the traditional uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacological activities of clove basil (Ocimum gratissimum L.). Heliyon. 2021 Nov 25;7(11):e08404. doi: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e08404.
Vassilina G, Sabitova A, Idrisheva Z, Zhumabekova A, Kanapiyeva F, Orynbassar R, Zhamanbayeva M, Kamalova M, Assilbayeva J, Turgumbayeva A, Abilkassymova A. Bio-active compounds and major biomedical properties of basil (Ocimum basilicum, lamiaceae). Nat Prod Res. 2025 Mar;39(5):1326-1344. doi: 10.1080/14786419.2024.2357662.
Ahmadifard M, Yarahmadi S, Ardalan A, Ebrahimzadeh F, Bahrami P, Sheikhi E. The Efficacy of Topical Basil Essential Oil on Relieving Migraine Headaches: A Randomized Triple-Blind Study. Complement Med Res. 2020;27(5):310-318. English. doi: 10.1159/000506349.
