No evidence basil leaf and ginger mixture cures infections

The ingredients

Basil plants vary in type, but the one in the video appears to be African basil, commonly known as scent leaf. 

African basil, or Ocimum gratissimum, is a versatile herb widely used in soups, stews and sauces. It is also valued in traditional medicine for its antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. 

Ginger is a strongly flavoured root of a tropical plant, commonly used in cooking for its spicy, aromatic taste. 

The claim is misleading, says expert

Africa Check contacted Ezekiel Iwalewa, a professor of pharmacology at the University of Ibadan, Nigeria. 

“African basil, which we all call scent leaves, has different properties, and certain people treat wounds with it while many cook with it. There are different types of infections, and claiming that African basil will treat infections without mentioning specific types can mislead people. Ginger also has its benefits, but there are limited infections that this claimed remedy can cure,” he said.

He said such a claim was dangerous because people might use it to fight infections that required intensive and rapid medical attention.

Africa Check also couldn’t find any credible studies to support the claim that this mixture could cure all infections.

It is best to be cautious as both ingredients have side effects that could harm you.

For more tips on spotting and debunking health misinformation, read our handy guide to evaluating health claims, quacks and cures.