Evidence supporting the use of: American Basil
For the health condition: Restless Dreams
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1
American Basil (Ocimum americanum), also known as wild basil or hoary basil, has a history of use in various traditional medicinal systems, particularly in parts of Africa and Asia. In these traditions, basil species—including American Basil—have sometimes been used as a calming herb, believed to promote relaxation and restful sleep. References to the use of basil for disturbed sleep, bad dreams, or "restless dreams" are largely anecdotal or found in ethnobotanical surveys, rather than in formalized herbal pharmacopoeias. The rationale behind these uses is often attributed to the aromatic compounds in the leaves, which are said to have mild sedative or anxiolytic effects when used as an infusion or placed under pillows.
However, scientific studies specifically investigating American Basil's effects on sleep quality or dream patterns are lacking. While a few studies have examined the essential oils of various basil species for sedative or anxiolytic properties in animal models, there is no direct clinical or pharmacological evidence supporting its efficacy for treating or preventing restless dreams in humans. Most of the support for this use remains rooted in traditional beliefs and practices, rather than scientific validation.
Other health conditions supported by American Basil
Abdominal PainAcid Indigestion
Acne
Allergies (respiratory)
Anxiety
Anxiety Disorders
Appetite (deficient)
Arthritis
Asthma
Bedwetting
Bites and Stings
Bleeding (external)
Boils
Bronchitis
Bruises (healing)
Burns and Scalds
Cancer (natural therapy for)
Canker Sores
Chest Pain
Chills
Colds (antiviral)
Colds (decongestant)
Colds (general)
Colds (prevention)
Colds (with fever)
Colic (adults)
Colic (children)
Congestion
Congestion (bronchial)
Congestion (lungs)
Congestion (sinus)
Constipation (adults)
Cough (general)
Cough (spastic)
Cuts
Depression
Diabetes
Diarrhea
Digestion (poor)
Dizziness
Ear Infection or Earache
Eczema
Emotional Sensitivity
Fever
Gastritis
Gingivitis
Hair Care (general)
Hangover
Headache (general)
Headache (sinus)
Indigestion
Inflammation
Nausea and Vomiting
Restless Dreams
Sore Throat
Stress