Introduction Fresh basil leaves have a unique aroma not even approximated by any other herb, making them an essential ingredient in cuisines of countries all over the world. There are hundreds of species and their hybrids marketed as basil, but the herb most commonly used in herbal medicine is the Mediterranean or "sweet" basil (although arguably Thai basil is sweeter). Basil produces its essential oils in glands in its leaves that have to be activated by UV-B rays from the sun; the best quality basil is grown in hot, sunny climates. Basil is used as a fragrance ingredient in perfumes, soaps, shampoos, and other body care products. Reportedly it has been used in the Far East for centuries for a variety of ailments, including head colds, a cure for warts, worms, as an appetite stimulant, carminative, and as a diuretic, among others. Constituents Basil has a unique aroma because of the many constituents of its essential oil. The oil contains 1,8-cineol, citral, eugenol, linalool, methyl chavicol, methyl cinnamate in relatively large quantities and bisabolene, camphor, cryophyllene, geraniol, and ocimene in smaller quantities influencing taste and action in the body. Parts Used Dried leaf in teas or essential oils for topical application. Typical Preparations The essential oil used topically. As a spice it can liberally used in foods. Summary

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