Basil

Botanical

What is it

Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a popular culinary herb in the mint family. In supplements, basil leaf extracts are used for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory support. Holy basil (Ocimum sanctum/tulsi) is a separate species with adaptogen claims.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Antioxidant / culinary use

Limited Evidence

Basil provides antioxidants in the diet. Specific clinical benefits from basil supplements (vs. holy basil) are not well established.

How it works

Basil contains essential oils (linalool, eugenol, methyl chavicol), flavonoids, and antioxidants. These have demonstrated antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activity in laboratory studies. Whole-food culinary use provides modest amounts of these compounds. Most clinical interest in 'basil' as a supplement actually refers to holy basil (tulsi). Common culinary basil has limited supplement-specific clinical research.

Dosage

No established RDA. Culinary use is unrestricted. Basil extract supplements vary widely; follow product labeling.

When and how to take it

WHEN: Anytime as a culinary herb. HOW: Fresh or dried in foods; supplements with water and food.

2 commercial forms

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Fresh or dried basil

Sweet basil used in cooking.

Standard culinary use.

Basil leaf extract

Used in supplements; less common than holy basil.

Concentrated essential oils and flavonoids.

Safety

Generally safe as a culinary herb. Essential oil concentrates can be irritating; do not take essential oils internally without guidance. Possible allergic reactions in mint-sensitive individuals.

Who should be cautious

Limited specific safety data for high-dose basil supplements in pregnancy. Avoid essential oil internal use except under specialist guidance.

Interactions

Limited interaction data for culinary basil. Concentrated extracts theoretically could enhance anticoagulant effects.

Food sources

Fresh basil leaves

Amount
2 tablespoons (5 g)
%DV
—

Frequently asked questions

Is basil the same as holy basil (tulsi)?⌄

No. Sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a culinary herb. Holy basil/tulsi (Ocimum sanctum/tenuiflorum) is a related but distinct species used as an Ayurvedic adaptogen.

References

Basil on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Basil on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Basil (PubMed search) — PubMed link

Track Basil with Pilora

Set up dose reminders, check interactions, and join the community in the Pilora iPhone app.

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.