Get a Free 5ml Mini Now Free 5ml Mini With Every Order of The Mantle
Moumoujus

OCIMUM BASILICUM LEAF.

Valuable CAS 84775-71-3 / TONIC

Ocimum Basilicum Leaf, commonly known as Basil, provides a versatile botanical extract rich in bioactive compounds that offer antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial benefits. It actively improves skin hydration and firmness, making it a valuable ingredient for targeted skincare solutions addressing concerns from acne to premature aging.

Summary

Antioxidant Soothing Anti-inflammatory Antimicrobial Anti-acne Hydrating Anti-aging Pore-refining Wound healing

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient operates through several key mechanisms: its polyphenolic flavonoids deliver potent antioxidant protection by scavenging free radicals and neutralizing reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, thereby mitigating oxidative damage. Bioactive compounds like rosmarinic acid, along with other phenolic acids and terpenes, contribute to significant anti-inflammatory effects by modulating pathways such as NF-κB and MAPK, reducing redness and swelling. The essential oils present, including linalool and eugenol, exhibit antimicrobial properties by disrupting microbial cell membranes, effectively targeting acne-causing bacteria like Propionibacterium acnes. Additionally, it helps to inhibit transepidermal water loss, contributing to enhanced skin hydration and improved texture, while also supporting wound healing and promoting a more refined, youthful skin appearance.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 2–3%
Optimal

3%

Key findings

  1. 01 A 3% microemulsion containing Ocimum basilicum essential oil demonstrated safety, excellent tolerance, and strong antimicrobial action against Propionibacterium acnes (51 mm halo). This formulation also preserved or enhanced skin moisture, leading to a visible improvement in acne appearance for 90% of study participants.
  2. 02 An optimal concentration of 3% for basil leaf extract was identified for use in body scrub formulations, where it effectively enhanced skin moisture, improved firmness, and boosted elasticity.
  3. 03 Ocimum essential oils, when tested at a 2% concentration, were found to be safe and non-irritating to human skin.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

No data suggests common 'dusting' of this ingredient.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 5 – 7
0 7 14

Stability

Optimal stability is observed within a pH range of 5 to 7, reflecting the natural pH of basil leaf. Extracts can be formulated in various solvents, indicating solubility in both aqueous and organic phases. A 3% Ocimum basilicum essential oil formulation maintained stability for a period of 90 days.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Max tested
3%
Sensitization risk Moderate

Ocimum basilicum leaf extract contains tannins, which can be skin-sensitizing. Furthermore, its essential oil components, such as linalool and eugenol, are known volatile fragrance compounds with documented sensitizing potential. While a 2-3% concentration of Ocimum essential oil has been deemed safe and well-tolerated in human skin irritation studies, a 5% concentration was observed to cause irritation. The U.S. FDA lists Ocimum basilicum oil as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) for food flavoring. However, external assessments raise 'HIGH' concern for 'Allergies & Immunotoxicity' and 'MODERATE' concern for 'Cancer' for the extract.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Unknown
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Ocimum Basilicum Leaf is a valuable multi-functional ingredient, particularly effective at 3% concentration for improving acne, hydration, and anti-aging outcomes, but requires careful formulation due to potential sensitization from its essential oil components and tannins.

Related

Similar Ingredients

Finding similar ingredients…