Camphor Basil vs Vana Tulsi

East African basil species with strong camphor scent; used extensively in East African traditional medicine for malaria, respiratory conditions and skin diseases.

Shrubby basil of Africa and Asia; one of three Tulsi varieties used in Ayurveda; also widely used across Africa for infections and malaria.

camphor, 1,8-cineole, alpha-terpineol, borneol, flavonoids

eugenol, thymol, carvacrol, beta-caryophyllene, rosmarinic acid

Malaria and fevers in East African medicine, Respiratory infections, Skin conditions and wound healing, Used by Maasai and other East African peoples

Adaptogenic tonic in Ayurveda (Vana Tulsi variety), Malaria and fever across Africa, Wound healing in African medicine, Respiratory infections

Antimalarial research, Antimicrobial, Expectorant, Wound healing

Antimicrobial, Antifungal, Adaptogen, Anti-inflammatory

2–3 g dried herb as tea; diluted essential oil for respiratory inhalation

2–4 g dried herb as tea; diluted essential oil; 2–3 mL tincture

Pregnancy, Epilepsy (camphor), Children (camphor sensitivity)

Anticoagulant medications, Pregnancy in large doses

Camphor toxicity in excess, Skin irritation from undiluted oil

Blood thinning, GI irritation in high doses