Ocimum labiatum
Ocimum labiatum, commonly known as the broad-leaved basil, is a versatile medicinal shrub native to tropical Africa. Renowned for its aromatic properties, this plant is widely utilized in traditional medicine to treat respiratory ailments, skin infections, and digestive issues, offering a natural wealth of bioactive compounds for holistic healing.
- Scientific name: Ocimum labiatum
- Family: Lamiaceae
- Native range: Africa
Taxonomical Classification
This plant belongs to the kingdom Plantae and the phylum Streptophyta, falling under the class Equisetopsida and subclass Magnoliidae. Within the order Lamiales and family Lamiaceae, it is specifically classified under the genus Ocimum.
| Rank | Classification | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae | WCVP |
| Phylum | Streptophyta | WCVP |
| Class | Equisetopsida | WCVP |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae | WCVP |
| Order | Lamiales | WCVP |
| Family | Lamiaceae | WCVP |
| Genus | Ocimum | WCVP |
Distribution
This plant exhibits a specific geographical distribution concentrated within the southern regions of the continent. In South Tropical Africa, its presence is notably recorded in Mozambique. Moving into Southern Africa, it can be found inhabiting the KwaZulu-Natal region. Additionally, the species is distributed throughout Eswatini. Finally, its range extends to the Northern Provinces within Southern Africa.
| Region | Area | Source |
|---|---|---|
| South Tropical Africa | Mozambique | WCVP |
| Southern Africa | KwaZulu-Natal | WCVP |
| Southern Africa | Eswatini | WCVP |
| Southern Africa | Northern Provinces | WCVP |