Overview

Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a widely used culinary herb that also contains a range of bioactive compounds with potential health benefits. It has been studied for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and metabolic effects.

In a longevity context, basil contributes plant polyphenols and phytochemicals that may support metabolic health and help modulate oxidative stress and inflammation.

Key Compounds

Basil contains a range of bioactive compounds, including: - Polyphenols - Flavonoids - Essential oils (e.g. eugenol)

These compounds are associated with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity.

Why We Include It

1. Antioxidant support Basil provides compounds that help neutralise oxidative stress.

2. Inflammatory pathways Bioactives in basil may help modulate inflammatory signalling.

3. Metabolic support Human and clinical studies suggest potential benefits for blood glucose and lipid markers.

4. Plant diversity Adds to the breadth of phytonutrients in a diverse plant-based formulation.

Evidence & References

Study 1 — Blood Glucose

Type: Randomised controlled trial Population: Adults with type 2 diabetes Intervention: Ocimum basilicum extract Duration: 8 weeks

Key Finding: Reduction in fasting blood glucose compared with control.

Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23484184/ Study 2 — Lipid Profile

Type: Clinical study Population: Adults with metabolic disorders Intervention: Basil extract

Key Finding: Improvements in total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol.

Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19570986/ Study 3 — Antioxidant Effects

Type: Clinical / mechanistic evidence

Key Finding: Basil extracts demonstrate antioxidant activity and influence inflammatory markers.

Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24901094/ Supporting Evidence — Review

Type: Systematic review

Key Finding: Basil contains polyphenols and essential oils associated with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and metabolic effects.

Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26697607/ Accessible Overview: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/basil-benefits

Summary

Basil is a nutrient-rich herb that contributes antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds, with supporting evidence for metabolic health benefits.

It plays a valuable role in enhancing the diversity and functional profile of a plant-based longevity formulation.