Ocimum Basilicum Leaf Extract

Plant-extract derived from Ocimum basilicum, AKA sweet basil

Rich in antioxidants like rosmarinic acid, ferulic acid, and rutin

Helps protect skin from pro-aging environmental aggressors

Contains sin-sensitizing tannins

Ocimum basilicum leaf extract, AKA sweet basil leaf extract, is a plant-derived ingredient used in skin care formulas for its antioxidant properties. Ocimum basilicum leaf extract shouldn’t be confused for Ocimum basilicum essential oil commonly extracted from the leaves and stems of the basil plant. This essential oil contains linalool and eugenol amongst other volatile fragrant compounds that have documented sensitizing effects on skin.

The main phenolic compounds present in Ocimum basilicum leaf extract are rutin plus ferulic, rosmarinic and caffeic acids. These antioxidants work to assist the skin in counteracting the aging effects that environmental aggressors, like UV rays, have on skin. The most abundant phenolic acid in Ocimum basilicum leaf extract, rosmarinic acid, also has soothing benefits on skin and occurs naturally in the rosemary plant.

Research has shown that this antioxidant rich plant-extract might also help address skin issues due to the bacteria that causes breakouts. Although Ocimum basilicum leaf extract has potential benefits, it also contains skin-sensitizing tannins which can have a constricting effect on surface cells.

See: Ocimum Basilicum flower extract