Ocimum gratissimum L.: review of the pharmacological activities of the species and its essential oil

Abstract

Introduction: Ocimum gratissimum L. (clove basil) is a herbaceous belonging to the National Relation of Medicinal Plants of Interest to SUS and widely used in phytotherapy and by traditional Brazilian communities for the treatment of various diseases. Objective: To systematize and identify the main scientifically proven pharmacological activities and chemical components responsible for biological properties. Material and methods: A bibliographic review was carried out in databases of periodicals and compiled the information on the pharmacological properties, part of the plant used, mode of use and means of extraction of the secondary metabolites of this species. Results: The essential oil of the leaves of this species is the most used in the pharmacological studies, highlighting its antimicrobial actions (of broad spectrum against Gram positive and negative bacteria and fungi). This vegetable in general has intense antioxidant activity, which is also considered responsible for other biological properties attributed to clove basil. Conclusions: Despite its various scientifically proven pharmacological properties, prolonged use of this plant should be avoided or monitored for the risks of toxicity.

Keywords: Biological activity; Medicinal plant; Aromatic compounds.