Basil
Ocimum basilicum
T Traditional useAn aromatic culinary herb. Traditionally used for indigestion and wind; calming effects have only been seen in animal studies.
Image: Herbadex Botanik Stüdyosu · Özel Üretim
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At a glance
Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a mint-family herb whose leaves flavour food. It is traditionally used for indigestion, bloating and poor appetite. Anxiety-reducing effects have been seen in animal studies. Because it contains estragole, long-term use of concentrated extracts and basil oil is not recommended; kitchen amounts are fine.
Updated: October 15, 2026
ℹ Compiled from standard pharmacognosy references and clinical literature summaries where no formal EMA monograph exists.
What is it used for?
T Traditional use
Traditional use: Based on at least 30 years of documented traditional use rather than clinical trials.
How do we rate evidence levels? →Traditionally used for indigestion, bloating and poor appetite. [1]
C Laboratory / animal evidence
Laboratory / animal evidence: Based only on laboratory (in vitro) or animal studies; not clinically proven in humans.
How do we rate evidence levels? →Anxiety-reducing and calming effects have been seen in animal studies. [1]
How is it used?
Safety & interactions
- Amounts used as a spice in food are generally safe; this does not apply to concentrated extracts and supplements.
- Because of estragole, avoid basil oil and concentrated extracts long term and in pregnancy.
- Its vitamin K may matter at very high intakes for people on anticoagulants.
Drug interactions
| Medicine / substance | Effect | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Warfarin | Very high intakes may reduce its effect because of vitamin K; keep daily intake steady. [2] | Minor |
Side effects
- Rarely allergy
⚕ When to see a doctor
- If high fever, shortness of breath or purulent/bloody phlegm develops
- If symptoms do not improve within 1–2 weeks or worsen
- If severe abdominal pain, jaundice, rash or allergic reaction occurs
Did you know?
The name "basil" comes from the Greek basilikos, meaning "royal". [1]
Frequently asked questions
What is basil tea used for?
It is traditionally drunk for indigestion and wind; the effect has not been clinically shown.
Does basil help sleep?
Calming effects have only been seen in animals.
Is "reyhan" the same as basil?
Yes, in Turkish both names usually refer to Ocimum basilicum.
Sources
- WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants (Volumes 1–4)World Health Organization · 2009
- Trease and Evans Pharmacognosy (16th Edition)Elsevier Health Sciences · 2009
Cite This Page
Basil (Ocimum basilicum). Herbadex — Doğal Şifa Rehberi (2026). https://herbadex.com/en/herb/basil/
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