Sweet Basil

At a Glance

Common name

Sweet Basil

Scientific name

Ocimum basilicum

Family

Lamiaceae

Region

Mediterranean

Plant part

Leaves, Flowering tops

Caffeine

Caffeine Free

Evidence

Insufficient

Safety review

Safety information on file

Botanical Description

An upright bushy annual with opposite bright green oval pointed leaves and tall spikes of small white tubular two-lipped flowers; the leaves and flowering tops are used.

Also known as: Genovese Basil, Common Basil, St. Joseph's Wort

Historical Background

Sweet basil has been a sacred culinary herb of India, the Mediterranean, and Southeast Asia for millennia, prized for its fragrant leaves. Distinct from holy basil (tulsi), its sweet leaves brew a gentle, peppery tea traditionally sipped for digestion and calm.

Earliest recorded uses: Used in Indian, Mediterranean, and Southeast Asian traditions for millennia; a sacred culinary herb (tulsi's cousin).

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Sweet, peppery, herbaceous, slightly anise-like

Tea Preparation

Modern Evidence

Sweet basil has a tradition for digestion, calm, and respiratory comfort; preclinical work shows antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Clinical evidence is insufficient; it is not a treatment for anxiety, digestive disorders, or any disease, and the pure essential oil is unsafe internally.

Evidence levels describe the state of research for the traditional use discussed here, not a recommendation. Historical use does not imply effectiveness.