Botanical Overview
Ocimum gratissimum belongs to the family Lamiaceae and is commonly known as African basil, clove basil, or scent leaf. Native to West Africa and tropical regions of Africa and Southeast Asia, this aromatic herbaceous plant has leaves, stems, and flowers that are traditionally used medicinally.
Energetics
This plant is generally considered warming and drying in nature, possessing pungent and bitter tastes. Its energetic directionality is ascending, with a tonifying effect on the qi (energy) system.
Primary Actions
- Antimicrobial
- Antioxidant
- Antispasmodic
- Carminative
- Expectorant
- Wound healing
Indications
Western
- Cough
- Fever
- Flatulence
- Diarrhea
- Skin infections
- Wounds
Syndromes
- Respiratory infections
- Gastrointestinal disorders
- Dermatitis
TCM
- Cough
- Phlegm
- Fever
Syndromes
- Wind-heat invasion
- Dampness accumulation
Ayurveda
- Cough
- Flatulence
- Fever
Syndromes
- Kapha imbalance
- Vata ailments
Unani
- Cough
- Diarrhea
- Skin conditions
Syndromes
- Heat-related fevers
- Digestive disturbances
Constituents & Mechanisms
Key phytochemical constituents include eugenol (which imparts a clove-like aroma), flavonoids, tannins, terpenoids, and polyphenols, contributing to its antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities.
Dosage & Preparations
- Infusion: 2-4 grams of leaves taken 1-2 times daily.
- Essential oil: Topical use in diluted form, 1-2 drops.
- Decoction: 5-10 grams of leaves taken 1-2 times daily.
Safety & Contraindications
Generally safe in traditional doses. Caution is advised during pregnancy due to insufficient safety data. Contains eugenol, which may interact with anticoagulant drugs and cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Astrological Correspondences
No well-documented planetary or elemental rulers identified in credible esoteric sources.
Selected References
- Medicinal Plants of Tropical Africa II
- World Health Organization Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants Volume 2
- Phytochemical and antimicrobial properties of Ocimum gratissimum, Journal of Ethnopharmacology
- Ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemistry and pharmacological activities of Ocimum gratissimum, African Journal of Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicines