Evidence supporting the use of: American Basil
For the health condition: Colds (with fever)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Ocimum basilicum, commonly known as American Basil or Sweet Basil, has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly in Asia and Africa, for the management of colds accompanied by fever. Traditional practitioners have used basil leaves in teas, infusions, or inhalations to help alleviate symptoms such as congestion, sore throat, and fever. The rationale is often based on basil’s reputed diaphoretic (promoting sweating) and mild antimicrobial properties, which are believed to support the body’s natural defense mechanisms during febrile illnesses.

From a scientific standpoint, limited laboratory studies have shown that basil extracts possess some antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, largely attributed to compounds such as eugenol and linalool. However, there is a lack of robust clinical trials specifically evaluating the efficacy of American Basil in the treatment of colds with fever in humans. The traditional use is relatively well-documented in ethnobotanical literature, but the evidence is not strong by modern scientific standards. Overall, while the use of American Basil for colds and fever is primarily supported by tradition, current scientific validation is insufficient, and its effectiveness for this specific condition remains largely anecdotal.

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