Ocimum Basilicum leaf extract

Average

Plant extracts

Ocimum Basilicum leaf extract at a glance

  • Plant-extract derived from Ocimum basilicum, AKA sweet basil
  • Rich in antioxidants like rosmarinic acid, ferulic acid, and rutin
  • Helps protect skin from pro-aging environmental aggressors
  • Contains sin-sensitizing tannins

Ocimum Basilicum leaf extract description

_Ocimum basilicum_ leaf extract, AKA sweet basil leaf extract, is a plant-derived ingredient used in skin care formulas for its antioxidant properties. _Ocimum basilicum_ leaf extract shouldn’t be confused for Ocimum basilicum essential oil commonly extracted from the leaves and stems of the basil plant. This essential oil contains linalool and eugenol amongst other volatile fragrant compounds that have documented sensitizing effects on skin. The main phenolic compounds present in _Ocimum basilicum_ leaf extract are rutin plus ferulic, rosmarinic and caffeic acids. These antioxidants work to assist the skin in counteracting the aging effects that environmental aggressors, like UV rays, have on skin. The most abundant phenolic acid in _Ocimum basilicum_ leaf extract, rosmarinic acid, also has soothing benefits on skin and occurs naturally in the rosemary plant. Research has shown that this antioxidant rich plant-extract might also help address skin issues due to the bacteria that causes breakouts. Although _Ocimum basilicum_ leaf extract has potential benefits, it also contains skin-sensitizing tannins which can have a constricting effect on surface cells.

Ocimum Basilicum leaf extract references

  • Plants, July 2021, ePublication
  • Molecules, November 2020, ePublication
  • Pakistan Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, January 2020, pages 361-369
  • BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies, June 2019, pages 146-156
  • Pharmaceutical Biology, May 2010, pages 504-511

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.