Last verified: 17 days ago
Basil Leaf
Also known as: Ocimum basilicum, Ocimum sanctum, Holy Basil, Sweet Basil, Tulsi
Evidence under review. — Not yet rated
Culinary herb with antioxidant properties. Human evidence is very limited and mixed.
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What it does
Basil leaf comes from the Ocimum plant family and has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Animal studies suggest it may boost antioxidant enzyme activity, reduce oxidative stress, and...
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Evidence quality
Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
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Clinical dose
No established dose
What the Science Says
Basil leaf comes from the Ocimum plant family and has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Animal studies suggest it may boost antioxidant enzyme activity, reduce oxidative stress, and potentially influence cortisol and serotonin levels. One small human clinical trial found no significant benefit for postpartum depression or sleep quality compared to placebo.
What It Doesn't Do
No proven benefit for depression in humans — a clinical trial showed it performed no better than a sugar pill. Won't reliably improve sleep quality. No human evidence for cancer prevention. Lab and animal results don't automatically translate to benefits in people.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Boosts antioxidant enzyme activity and reduces oxidative stress markers in animal models.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: 200-400 mg/kg body weight (animal studies only)
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Lowered cortisol and raised serotonin levels in depressed mice given basil essential oil.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: No human dose established
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Did not prevent postpartum depression or improve sleep quality compared to placebo in a clinical trial.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: Two capsules of dried basil leaf powder daily for 8 weeks
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Absorption & Bioavailability
Unknown — no human pharmacokinetic data provided in the available studies
Red Flags to Watch For
- Almost all promising findings come from animal or lab studies, not human trials
- The only human RCT found no effect on depression or sleep quality
- Widely used in supplements (1000+ registered products) despite very thin human evidence
- Dosing is highly inconsistent across studies, making safe and effective human doses unclear
Products Containing Basil Leaf
See how Basil Leaf is used in these analyzed products:
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Basil Leaf do?
Culinary herb with antioxidant properties. Human evidence is very limited and mixed.
What is the effective dose of Basil Leaf?
No established dose
Is Basil Leaf safe?
Almost all promising findings come from animal or lab studies, not human trials
What doesn't Basil Leaf do?
No proven benefit for depression in humans — a clinical trial showed it performed no better than a sugar pill.
Research Sources
- PubMed
- NIH DSLD
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-05-25