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Purple Basil

Antioxidant

Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens

PregnancyNursing

Last updated Mar 29, 2026

Description

Purple-leaved cultivar of sweet basil with high anthocyanin content; used similarly to green basil with additional antioxidant interest.

Active Compounds

linalooleugenolanthocyaninsrosmarinic acidflavonoids

Traditional Uses

Digestive conditions in Mediterranean folk medicine
Wound healing poultice
Respiratory infections
Culinary and ornamental

Modern Uses

Antioxidant via high anthocyanins
Carminative
Antimicrobial
Anti-inflammatory

Dosage Information

Recommended dosing guidelines

Forms: tea, other, tincture
Adult Dose: 2–3 g dried herb as tea; culinary amounts liberally
Child Dose: Culinary amounts safe for children
Preparation Notes: High anthocyanin content gives deep purple color; beautiful in salads and herbal teas

Safety Information

Generally safe during pregnancy

Generally safe while nursing

Contraindications

Anticoagulant medications in high doses

Possible Side Effects

Blood thinning potential
GI upset in excess

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