What are the Medicinal Properties of Basil (Ocimum Basilicum)? Introduction Basil is also known with the name Saint Joseph’s wort and belongs to the Lamiaceae (mint) family. This culinary herb is native to tropical regions from Southeast Asia to Central Africa. This tender plant is used for cooking various cuisines worldwide. Its leaves have pungent, strong and usually sweet taste. Basil has many varieties along with some hybrid species as well. Sweet basil is the type of this herb used