Synopsis

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

American Basil (Ocimum americanum), also known as hoary basil or wild basil, has a history of use in traditional medicine for various ailments, including oral health issues such as gingivitis. In several cultures, basil leaves have been chewed or used as an ingredient in mouthwashes or tooth powders, attributed to their purported antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. The use is largely extrapolated from the broader genus Ocimum, which includes species like Ocimum sanctum (Holy Basil or Tulsi) and Ocimum basilicum (Sweet Basil), both of which have more documented traditional uses for oral care.

However, there is limited direct scientific evidence specifically supporting the efficacy of Ocimum americanum against gingivitis. While some laboratory studies on related basil species have demonstrated antibacterial activity against oral pathogens, and anti-inflammatory effects that could theoretically benefit gingivitis, robust clinical trials in humans are lacking for American Basil in particular. As a result, its use for gingivitis is primarily justified by tradition rather than strong scientific validation. The evidence rating reflects that while the traditional use is established, modern research to confirm these benefits for gingivitis specifically is scant.

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