Tropical Basil essential oil, also called Exotic Basil, is recognized for its action on the digestive sphere: it promotes digestion, limits bloating, helps with nausea... Powerful anti-spasmodic, it also fights against related pain to the rules. Its anti-stress action is useful in cases of anxiety, which can influence the appearance of digestive problems. Used mainly orally or through the skin, you must remain vigilant because it presents risks: thus, it cannot be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women, children under 6 years old and people with liver problems. or coagulation. Latin name: Ocimum basilicum var. basilicum Distilled part: flowered aerial part
This article was updated on 10/07/2023Precautions for use
This essential oil is prohibited for pregnant women and children under 6 years old. Basil essential oil is irritating and should not be applied pure to the skin. It is contraindicated in people with hepatic or coagulation disorders or in those following anticoagulant treatment.
Authorized users
Possible ways of use
Risks of use
Other precautions
Medical advice
- People with epilepsy should seek medical advice before any use (epileptogenic risk at high doses).
- Seek medical advice before use for people with asthma.
Skin application
Dilute Tropical Basil essential oil to at least 20% in a vegetable oil before applying to the skin (1 drop in 4 drops of vegetable oil).
Ingestion
- Basil essential oil can be hepatotoxic after ingestion in high doses and over a long period of time.
- Contraindicated orally in heavy smokers and people with a history of cancer or cancerous pathologies.
- Do not use for a prolonged period: no more than 7 days.
In broadcast
Dilute Tropical Basil essential oil to a maximum of 10-15% in other essential oils.
Contraindications
Contraindicated in people with hepatic or coagulation disorders, or taking anticoagulant treatments.
Allergenic components
Basil essential oil contains several allergenic biochemical components in significant doses.
- linalool (8 to 30%)
- citrals (neral + geranial) (≤ 3%)
- limonene (≤ 0.5%)
- eugenol (≤ 0.5%)
- geraniol (≤ 0.5%)
Note: It is preferable to test the essential oil before using it (dilute a drop of essential oil in a little vegetable oil and apply it to the crook of the elbow. Wait at least 24 hours to check that it is there is no reaction).
Properties of Tropical Basil essential oil
Basil essential oil is highly concentrated in linalool and methylchavichol. These different molecules give it the following main properties:
-
antispasmodic ++++ (linalool, methylchavicol (estragole)):
studies have shown that estragole, the majority compound of Tropical Basil essential oil, blocks the transmission of nervous messengers in the autonomic nervous system, responsible for contraction and spasms of smooth muscles. These muscles constitute the wall of many digestive organs (notably the intestines), but also of the uterus.
-
digestive tonic, digestive protector +++ (methylchavicol (estragole)):
tropical Basil essential oil is traditionally used as a digestive tonic. A study carried out on the use of the plant on rats shows that it also has an anti-ulcer action: the methane extract of the plant induced a reduction in acid production in rats with ulcers, thus suggesting an anti-ulcerogenic effect. Although this action has not been demonstrated on the essential oil, it could also be present.
-
antifungal ++ (methylchavicol (estragole)):
basil essential oil exerts an antifungal action on Epidermophyton floccosum, Microsporum gypsum, Sporothrix schenckii. The studies focused on 10 different strains and the zones of inhibition of the essential oil were measured after 10 days of incubation.
-
antibacterial ++ (methylchavicol (estragole)):
basil Ocimum Basilicum essential oil exerts an antibacterial action on Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus mutans and Enterococcus faecalis. The study of this antibacterial activity was carried out by measuring the zones of inhibition of the essential oil on the different strains.
-
anti-inflammatory ++ (linalool, methylchavicol (estragole)):
a study demonstrates that estragole inhibits the production of inflammatory mediators: this action is particularly linked to the regulation of the NF-kB signaling pathway (protein involved in the transcription of the immune response). These results indicate that estragole could thus be used for application or prevention of various inflammatory diseases.
-
calming, anxiolytic, sedative ++ (linalool, methylchavicol (estragole)):
tropical Basil essential oil helps reduce anxiety: in a 2015 study, a test measuring anxiety in rats (elevated maze) was able to demonstrate that the essential oil has a greater anxiolytic and sedative as the hydroalcoholic extract of Ocimum Basilicum tested in parallel. Its calming and relaxing properties are particularly useful in cases of anxiety, especially when it manifests itself through associated digestive disorders.
But also these secondary properties:
- anti-oxidant
- analgesic
In case of Dyspepsia, Difficult digestion
Efficiency: ++++
Simple use
Reserved for adults. Through the skin, dilute Basil essential oil to 10%, that is to say 1 drop in 9 drops of vegetable oil. Massage the abdomen, up to 3 times a day, for a maximum of 7 days.
Use in synergy
Reserved for adults. Orally, take 2 to 3 times a day at the end of meals, for a maximum of 72 hours. On a neutral tablet, half a sugar or a teaspoon of olive oil, place:
- 1 drop of Tropical Basil essential oil
- 1 drop of Peppermint essential oil
Source : Festy, D., Dufour, A. (2022). My Bible of essential oils, Editions Leduc
In case of' Aerophagia, bloating, flatulence
Efficiency: +++
Simple use
Reserved for adults:
- Orally, place 1 to 2 drops of Tropical Basil essential oil on a neutral support. Take 3 times a day, for 7 days maximum.
- Through the skin, for occasional use, place 1 drop of Tropical Basil essential oil in a little vegetable oil. For repeated use, it is preferable to dilute it to 10%, i.e. 1 mL of essential oil in 9 mL of vegetable oil. Massage the stomach with a few drops counterclockwise at the time of the symptoms, up to twice a day.
Use in synergy
Reserved for ages 6+. On days when the symptoms of aerophagia are triggered, ingest 2 drops of this synergy, 3 times a day before a meal, in a small spoon of honey or olive oil:
- 55 drops of Basil essential oil
- 35 drops of Caraway essential oil
- 35 drops of Coriander Seed essential oil
More details or other users: essential oils against aerophagia.
Tropical Basil or Cardamom?
Tropical Basil essential oil is effective in cases of bloating or aerophagia, but thecardamom essential oil is even more so. Orally, from 6 years old: 1 drop in a teaspoon of olive oil or honey, 3 times a day. Cutaneously, from 3 years old: 1 drop diluted in 4 drops of vegetable oil, massaged on the abdomen 3 times a day.
In case of' Anxiety, Stress
Efficiency: +++
Simple use
Reserved for adults. Dermal and inhalation, massage 1 drop of Basil essential oil onto the wrists and solar plexus at bedtime and breathe. Do not exceed 6 uses per day and one week of use. For sensitive skin, dilute Basil essential oil in a few drops of vegetable oil.
Use in synergy
Reserved for ages 6+. Massage a few drops of the mixture onto the thorax (add 1 ampoule of lithium granion to swallow every morning in a glass of water):
- 60 drops (2 mL) of Basil essential oil
- 60 drops (2 mL) of Neroli essential oil
- 11 mL of Macadamia vegetable oil
Source: Zahalka, JP. (2002). Complete Dictionary of Aromatherapy. Editions du Dauphin.
Tropical Basil or Petit Grain Bigarade?
Basil essential oil will be very effective, however, theessential oil of Petit Grain Bigarade is better in cases of anxiety and stress:
- When inhaled, breathe directly above the bottle 2 to 3 times a day or place a few drops on the wick of an inhaler.
- In broadcast, pour the number of drops indicated on the diffuser instructions and diffuse in intervals of 5 to 10 minutes.
In case of Painful periods, Dysmenorrhea
Efficiency: +++
Simple use
Reserved for teenagers and adults. Cutaneously:
- for repeated use, dilute 1 drop of Tropical Basil essential oil in 4 drops of vegetable oil, for example Borage.
- for occasional use, mix equal parts (50% dilution) of Basil essential oil and vegetable oil. Massage the lower abdomen in a circular manner, 2 to 3 times a day depending on the pain during the period.
Tropical Basil or Tarragon?
Tropical Basil essential oil is very effective, as istarragon essential oil in case of painful periods. Cutaneously, for occasional use: dilute 1 drop in 1 drop of vegetable oil, 3 times a day maximum on the stomach. For repeated use, dilute 1 drop in 4 drops of vegetable oil.
Against Nausea, Vomiting
Efficiency: +++
Simple use
Reserved for adolescents and adults. When inhaled, place 1 drop of Tropical Basil essential oil on a tissue. Breathe before each meal or in case of nausea, up to 3 times a day, 4 days maximum.
Tropical Basil or Peppermint?
Tropical Basil essential oil is effective against nausea and vomiting, but for adults and adolescents, thepeppermint essential oil remains the reference. Orally, 1 drop of Peppermint EO on a neutral tablet to put under the tongue occasionally. When inhaled, 1 drop on a tissue or inhaler stick, inhale deeply 3-4 times and repeat if necessary. It is also possible to inhale directly above the bottle.
Use in synergy
Reserved for adults. Orally, place 2 drops of this mixture on a neutral support. To be taken 5 times a day maximum:
- 30 drops of Peppermint essential oil
- 30 drops of Ginger essential oil
- 30 drops of Tropical Basil essential oil
Source: Couic-Marinier, F., Touboul, A. (2020). The Terre Vivante guide to essential oils, Terre Vivante
In case of Stomach cramps
Efficiency: +++
Simple use
Reserved for adults. Orally, place 1 drop of Tropical Basil essential oil in a teaspoon of honey. Take up to 3 times a day, for up to 72 hours. Do not use for prolonged periods without medical advice. It is also possible to immerse the teaspoon in a cup of licorice or verbena infusion.
Tropical Basil or Melissa?
Tropical Basil essential oil is effective in cases of stomach cramps, but thelemon balm essential oil is just as effective: orally, 1 pure drop of Melissa on a neutral tablet to let melt in the mouth for better diffusion during the attack. Cutaneously, dilute 1 drop of lemon balm in 9 drops of vegetable oil and apply to the stomach.
In case of Renal colic
Efficiency: +++
Simple use
Reserved for adults. Through the skin, to relieve pain while waiting for medical treatment: dilute basil essential oil to 20%, that is to say 1 drop in 4 drops of vegetable oil. Massage the painful area, up to 3 times a day.
Tropical Basil or Khella?
Tropical Basil essential oil is effective, but thekhella essential oil is the reference. Through the skin, 1 drop in 9 drops of vegetable oil, to apply to the painful area while awaiting medical treatment, 2 to 3 times a day.
Use in synergy
Reserved for adults. To relieve pain while waiting for medical treatment. Massage 10 drops of the synergy into the painful area around the liver, up to 6 times a day, for 3 to 6 days maximum.
- 90 drops of Khella essential oil
- 60 drops of Peppermint essential oil
- 60 drops of Tropical Basil essential oil
- 30 drops of Fragrant or Lying Wintergreen essential oil
- Supplement up to 50 mL with Calophyll Inophyl vegetable oil
Source: Couic-Marinier, F., Frély, R. (2019). Essential oils: the complete guide for the whole family, Editions Solar
Other famous applications of Tropical Basil
Basil essential oil is used on many occasions, particularly linked to its anti-infectious, antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory rheumatic properties. For the majority ofthe following uses it will be effective, but without necessarily being the best essential oil. We therefore indicate to you the best replacement for Basil for the following different problems.
Tropical disease
Basil essential oil can be effective in cases of tropical illness with digestive pain but… it is better to favorcinnamon essential oil. For adults only, orally, 1 drop of Chinese Cinnamon with 1 drop of Lemon essential oil in a tablespoon of edible vegetable oil. To be ingested during a meal, up to 3 times a day and for a maximum of one week.
Constipation
Tropical Basil essential oil can be effective in cases of constipation, but... it is better to useginger essential oil. Orally, from 6 years old: 1 drop in a teaspoon of olive oil before meals, 3 days maximum. Cutaneously, from 3 years old: 2 drops diluted in 8 drops of vegetable oil, massaged on the stomach before meals, for 5 to 7 days maximum.
Diarrhea
Tropical Basil essential oil can be effective against diarrhea-related spasms, butcinnamon essential oil remains the anti-infectious reference. For adults only, orally, 1 drop of Chinese Cinnamon with 1 drop of Lemon essential oil in a tablespoon of edible vegetable oil. To be ingested during a meal, up to 3 times a day and for a maximum of one week.
Insomnia
Basil essential oil can be useful against insomnia, especially if it is linked to digestive disorders, but... it is better to useroman Chamomile essential oil in case of sleep disorders: 1 drop diluted in 4 drops of vegetable oil, applied to the solar plexus, the inside of the wrists or the soles of the feet. Can also be breathed at the wrists.
Muscle cramp
Basil essential oil can be effective for its antispasmodic effect but... it is better to usewintergreen essential oil. Cutaneously, from 12 years old: 1 drop diluted in 9 drops of vegetable oil, massage gently onto the affected area.
How to recognize a good Tropical Basil essential oil?
Botanical characteristics
- Latin Name: Ocimum basilicum var. basilicum
- Botanical family: Lamiaceae
- Part used: flowering aerial parts
- Country of origin: India.
Physical characteristics
- Density at 20°C: 0.930 to 0.960
- Refractive index at 20°C: 1,490 to 1,520
- Rotary power at 20°C: -20 to 5
- Flash point: 75
Organoleptic characteristics
- Appearance: clear mobile liquid
- Color: pale yellow to amber yellow
- Odor: fresh, spicy, aniseed.
Biochemical characteristics
- methylchavicol (estragole): 70 to 80%
- linalool: 15 to 30%
- cadinene: ≤ 3%
- 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol): ≤ 3%
- β-bisabolene: ≤ 3%
Holy Basil, Tropical, with Linalool... What are the differences?
Basil, its nickname "Ocimum", is present in all sauces, in fact there are a hundred varieties of Basil! Concerning essential oils, we find the essential oil of Holy Basil aka Tulsi, the plant of which is notably used in Ayurveda and which brings together various species of Ocimum (tenuiflorum, gratissimum or even sanctum) available in varieties. These essential oils of Holy Basil are distinguished from others by their majority composition in phenols. Still in the Ocimum family, or rather in the species, we find the cousins, the basilicum genus, which are available according to different chemotypes. We will then find Linalool Basil essential oil which mainly contains linalool, hence its little name, or even Tropical or Grand Vert Basils whose major active ingredients are methyl ether phenols.
We tell you about it in video
Was this article helpful to you?
Average grade: 4.6 ( 632 votes)
Bibliography
Publication: Shirazi, M.T., Gholami, H., Kavoosi, G., Rowshan, V., & Tafsiry, A. (2014). Chemical composition, antioxidant, antimicrobial and cytotoxic activities of Tagetes minuta and Ocimum basilicum essential oils. Food Science & Nutrition, 2(2), 146–155. https://doi.org/10.1002/fsn3.85
Publication: Singh, S. (1999). Mechanism of action of antiinflammatory effect of fixed oil of Ocimum basilicum Linn.. Indian Journal of Experimental Biology, 37(3), 248–252.
Publication: Rashidian, A., Roohi, P., Mehrzadi, S., Ghannadi, AR, & Minaiyan, M. (2016). Protective Effect of Ocimum basilicum Essential Oil Against Acetic Acid–Induced Colitis in Rats. Journal of Evidence-Based Complementary & Alternative Medicine, 21(4), 1–7. https://doi.org/10.1177/2156587215616550
Publication: Chenni, M., El Abed, D., Rakotomanomana, N., Fernandez, X., & Chemat, F. (2016). Comparative Study of Essential Oils Extracted from Egyptian Basil Leaves (Ocimum basilicum L.) Using Hydro-Distillation and Solvent-Free Microwave Extraction. Molecules, 21(1), 113. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules21010113
Publication: Oxenham, SK, Svoboda, KP, & Walters, DR (2005). Antifungal Activity of the Essential Oil of Basil (Ocimum basilicum). Journal of Phytopathology, 153(3), 174–180. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1439-0434.2005.00952.x
Work : de la Charie, T. (2019). Treat yourself with essential oils. Why and how does it work? Editions du Rocher.
Work : Baudoux, D. (2008). Aromatherapy: treating yourself with essential oils. Amyris Editions.
Work : Zahalka, J. (2017). Complete Aromatherapy Dictionary. Editions du Dauphin.
Related articles
GUIDE Basil essential oil: 5 simple uses
GUIDE The benefits of Tropical Basil essential oil on digestive disorders
GUIDE Painful periods: how to use Basil essential oil?
GUIDE Basil essential oil: useful for aches and cramps?
GUIDE How to use Basil essential oil to sleep better?
GUIDE Use Basil essential oil against stomach problems
GUIDE How to use Basil essential oil against bloating?
GUIDE How to use Tropical Basil essential oil orally?
GUIDE What are the benefits of Basil essential oil on the skin?
About these tips
This aromatherapy article was written by Théophane de la Charie, author of the book “Treat yourself with essential oils”, accompanied by a multidisciplinary team made up of pharmacists, biochemists and agronomists.
La Compagnie des Sens and its teams do not encourage self-medication. The information and advice provided comes from a reference bibliographic database (books, scientific publications, etc.). They are given for information purposes, or to suggest avenues for reflection: they should in no case replace a diagnosis, consultation or medical follow-up, and cannot engage the liability of the Compagnie des Sens.