Ocimum campechianum facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ocimum campechianum |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Ocimum
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| Species: |
campechianum
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| Synonyms | |
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Ocimum micranthum Willd. |
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Ocimum campechianum is a type of plant that belongs to the Lamiaceae family, which also includes mint and basil. This plant grows in many places, including Mexico, Central America, South America, the Caribbean, and Florida.
People in the Amazon rainforest in Brazil eat the leaves of Ocimum campechianum. It tastes a bit like basil and has a strong, spicy smell. This plant contains special essential oils that have been used in traditional medicine for a long time. In the Amazon, its fragrant leaves are sometimes added to special traditional preparations. In Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula, the plant is called xkakaltun. It is also known as a "honey plant" because bees love its flowers. In Brazil, it's often called alfavaca. Other names for it include Amazonian basil, wild sweet basil, and spice basil.
What is Essential Oil?
Essential oils are concentrated liquids that contain the natural scent and flavor of a plant. They are made from different parts of plants, like leaves, flowers, or bark. These oils are often used in perfumes, soaps, and even some foods.
Uses of Ocimum campechianum Oil
Scientists have studied the essential oil from Ocimum campechianum to see how it can be used with food. They found that its oil is similar to the oils from common basil and thyme. It is also a good antioxidant, which means it can help protect cells from damage. The oil can also stop certain fungi and yeasts from growing on food, which helps keep food fresh longer. The leaves of the plant have the most essential oil, about 4.3% of their weight.
