What it is
Ocimum Basilicum Oil is a volatile essential oil distilled from the leaves and flowering tops of basil. In cosmetics it contributes a characteristic herbaceous aroma and is included at low levels for sensory and botanical positioning. It appears in some sun and skincare products as a natural scent component rather than a functional active.
Safety & warnings
As an essential oil, basil oil contains volatile aromatic constituents that can act as fragrance sensitizers and may cause irritation or contact allergy in susceptible individuals; some basil chemotypes contain methyl chavicol (estragole). Those with sensitive or reactive skin should approach fragrant essential oils with caution and consider patch testing.
Origin & sourcing
Natural; a steam-distilled essential oil from Ocimum basilicum, an aromatic herb in the mint family.
Questions everyone asks
What is Ocimum Basilicum Oil?
It is the essential oil of basil, used mainly as a natural fragrance and botanical component in cosmetics.
Can basil oil irritate skin?
As a fragrant essential oil it can be a sensitizer for some people and may cause irritation or contact allergy in susceptible individuals.