Indications
Basil (sweet basil, Ocimum basilicum) is a culinary and medicinal herb. In herbal medicine, especially in cough syrups, basil leaf extract is traditionally used to soothe cough, sore throat and colds, and to ease indigestion and wind. It is a close relative of Tulsi (holy basil) but is a different plant. Scientific evidence for its medicinal use is limited.
How It Works
Basil leaves contain aromatic oils such as linalool, eugenol and methyl chavicol (estragole), along with other plant compounds. These are thought to have mild soothing, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, and to help relieve wind in the gut.
Dosage and Administration
Take as directed on the label or by a registered practitioner. Basil used in normal food amounts is safe for most people.
Interactions
- Large medicinal amounts may slow blood clotting; take care with blood thinners such as Warfarin, Clopidogrel or Aspirin.
- It may slightly lower blood sugar and blood pressure; people taking medicines for these should monitor their levels.
Contraindications
- Known allergy to basil or other plants in the mint family.
- Concentrated basil oil or extracts in pregnancy and in young children.
Side Effects
At normal amounts it is well tolerated. Some people may have stomach upset or an allergic skin reaction. Long-term use of concentrated basil oil is not advised because of its estragole content.
Get urgent medical help if you have difficulty breathing, high fever lasting more than three days, coughing up blood, or signs of a serious allergic reaction such as swelling of the face.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Basil in food is safe. Avoid concentrated medicinal amounts or basil oil during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as their safety has not been established.
Precautions and Warnings
- See a doctor for a cough lasting more than three weeks, high fever or breathlessness.
- Stop medicinal use two weeks before planned surgery.
- Use in children only as directed on the label or by a doctor.
Overdose
No serious effects are known from normal products, but large amounts of concentrated extract or oil may cause stomach upset. Contact a doctor if a large amount has been swallowed, especially by a child.
Therapeutic Class
Herbal preparation (cough and digestive herb).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.