Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Basil (Ocimum basilicum) has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, especially in Asia and the Mediterranean, for various digestive complaints, including constipation. Traditional herbalists have sometimes recommended basil tea or preparations for children experiencing mild constipation, largely based on its reputed carminative (gas-relieving) and mild laxative properties. However, most of this support is anecdotal or based on historical texts rather than robust scientific research.

Scientific validation for basil’s use specifically in pediatric constipation is minimal. The phytochemicals in basil, such as essential oils (e.g., eugenol, linalool), may have mild antispasmodic and digestive effects, but there is little direct evidence to suggest a significant impact on bowel motility or stool frequency in children. No high-quality clinical trials or systematic reviews have established its safety or efficacy for this indication in pediatric populations. Thus, the use of basil for constipation in children is primarily justified by tradition rather than rigorous scientific evidence, and any benefit is likely to be mild and not reliably predictable.

Care should also be taken when administering herbal remedies to children, as their safety profiles are not always well studied. Parents and caregivers should consult healthcare professionals before using basil or any herbal preparation for pediatric constipation.

More about basil
More about Constipation (children)

Other ingredients used for Constipation (children)

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