Ocimum basilicum
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Ocimum basilicum Common Names: Sweet Basil, Hairy Basil, Common Basil,
Thai Basil Scientific
Classification Kingdom: Plantae Clade: Tracheophytes Clade: Angiosperms Clade: Eudicots Order: Lamiales Family: Lamiaceae Genus: Ocimum Species: O. basilicum Authority: L. Synonyms: Ocimum thyrsiflorum L., Ocimum pilosum Willd., Ocimum medium Mill. Morphological Description Ocimum basilicum is an aromatic herb in the Lamiaceae family, typically grown
as an annual, though it can persist as a short-lived perennial in tropical
climates: · Stem: Erect, square, 30–150 cm tall, often hairy, green or
purplish (Burkill, 1997). · Leaves: Ovate, 3–11 cm long, 1–6 cm wide, smooth or slightly
toothed, glossy green or purple (Fern, 2024). · Flowers: Small, white to pale pink, 3–5 mm long, arranged in terminal
spikes or whorls, pollinated by bees (Barwick, 2004). · Fruit: Nutlets, 1–2 mm long, black, mucilaginous when wet (Burkill,
1997). Distribution and Habitat Ocimum basilicum is native to tropical regions and widely cultivated
globally: · Range: Central Africa (e.g., Nigeria) to Southeast Asia (e.g.,
Thailand); cultivated in Europe, North America, and India (Fern, 2024). · Habitat: Thrives in warm climates (20–30°C), well-drained, fertile
soils, pH 6–7, full sun, moderate water (Burkill, 1997). Ethnopharmacology Ocimum basilicum is a cornerstone of traditional medicine, rich in linalool,
eucalyptol, estragole, and eugenol (Azizah et al. (2023). It has
anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, neuroprotective,
and cardioprotective effects. Basil has been traditionally used for wound
healing, digestive disorders, respiratory issues, and fever reduction. Its
anti-inflammatory properties help alleviate arthritis, colitis, and other
inflammatory conditions, while its antioxidant effects protect against
oxidative stress and aging-related diseases. The plant’s essential oils exhibit
antibacterial and antifungal activity against various pathogens, making it
useful for treating infections and boosting immunity. Additionally, basil shows
neuroprotective effects, helping in conditions like Alzheimer’s and stroke
recovery, and possesses hypoglycemic activity, aiding in blood sugar regulation
for diabetes management. It also has a calming effect, acting as a natural
adaptogen to reduce stress and anxiety while supporting heart health by
lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels. · Antiviral/Antibacterial: Leaf infusions in India treat colds.
Chiang et al. (2005) found apigenin inhibited herpes viruses (IC50 9.7 µg/mL). · Anti-inflammatory: Used in Nigeria for joint pain. A study
demonstrated that Ocimum basilicum
essential oil significantly reduced ulcer severity, area, and index, and
decreased myeloperoxidase activity, suggesting its protective effect against
colitis Saeidi, et al. (2018). · Antioxidant: Ghanaian tea for stress relief. · Antifungal: Leaf paste in Thailand for skin infections. Suppakul et al.
(2003) confirmed activity against Candida albicans (MIC 0.5 mg/mL). · Digestive Health: Nigerian decoctions for bloating. Burkill
(1997) notes carminative use; Akhtar et al. (1992) found antiulcer effects in
rats. · Neuroprotective: Used in Ayurveda for memory. One study
demonstrated that O. basilicum leaf
extract (OBLE) treatment significantly improved memory and motor coordination
in mice after ischemic stroke. It also reduced cerebral infarct size and
oxidative stress. The extract was standardized for total phenol content,
revealing the presence of eight phenolic acids. These findings suggest that
OBLE may serve as a potential neuroprotective agent for ischemic stroke Singh
et al. (2018). ⚠ Toxicity Profile: High doses of essential oil (>1000 mg/kg)
caused sedation and liver stress in rats after 14 days. Estragole may be
genotoxic in large amounts; avoid excessive use in pregnancy (Fandohan et al.,
2008). Additional Uses · Culinary: Key in pesto, curries, and salads; leaves flavor Italian and
Thai dishes (Barwick, 2004). · Aromatherapy: Essential oil in perfumes and stress relief (Fern, 2024). · Cultural: Planted in Indian homes for spiritual protection (Burkill,
1997). References
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