Thai basil (Ocimum basilicum var. thyrsiflorum) is an aromatic basil with narrow green leaves, purple stems and flowers, and a distinctive sweet-spicy flavor with notes of anise, licorice, and clove. Its characteristic aroma comes from volatile compounds such as linalool and estragole, with the exact profile varying among cultivars and growing conditions. Thai basil also provides phenolic acids, flavonoids, carotenoids, vitamin K1, and other plant compounds. Its sturdy leaves hold up particularly well to heat, making Thai basil ideal for curries, stir-fries, soups, noodle dishes, and other Southeast Asian recipes.