Herb guide › African Basil
African Basil
An aromatic herb with upright stems and oval green leaves that may develop small flowers. Ocimum gratissimum leaves have a strong clove-like, camphoraceous, peppery aroma and flavor. Dried leaves produce a golden-green to brown herbal infusion.
Traditionally used for
Bloating, Gas, Indigestion, Respiratory infection
Potential benefits
Antioxidant, antimicrobial, carminative, digestive aid, antifungal, adaptogenic
Ingredients
African Basil leaf
Origin
Nigeria, Ghana, Cameroon, Kenya, Tanzania
How it is traditionally prepared
1 tsp dried leaf per 8 oz hot water, steep 5–10 minutes, 1–2 cups daily.
Cautions and who should avoid it
Concentrated preparations may interact with medications. Avoid medicinal doses during pregnancy and breastfeeding because safety data are limited; may lower blood sugar; caution with diabetes meds.
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