Ocimum basilicum, also called basil, is a culinary herb of Lamiaceae (mints). It has a strong history in ancient medicines of Ayurveda, the traditional medicinal system of ancient India. Basil contains two important water-soluble flavonoid anti-oxidants, known as orientin and vicenin. Also, basil can help soothe and give a calming feel to the skin and help you find relief from temporary itching. Recently, scientific studies have found basil effective against numerous bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus and another bacterium.