Holy Basil

Other Names:

Tulsi

What is holy basil?

Considered to be a sacred plant by the Hindus and often planted around Hindu shrines, holy basil is used in Ayurvedic medicine as an adaptogen to help relieve stress and anxiety. It is originally from India but it now also grows in Australia, West Africa and some Middle Eastern countries.

Health Benefits:

Reduces stress and anxiety

Holy basil acts as an adaptogen, which is a natural substance that helps the body adapt to stress and promotes mental balance. Although the concept of an adaptogen is a holistic approach, scientific research shows that the plant also has pharmacological properties to help the mind cope with different types of stress.

According to the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, holy basil has antidepressant and anti-anxiety properties comparable to diazepam. One study found that people who took 500 mg of holy basil extract each day felt less anxious, stressed and depressed, whilst also feeling more social.

Vitalise the body

As it is full of antioxidants, holy basil helps the body detox and studies show it can protect the body against toxic chemicals. The plant is antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, anti-inflammatory and analgesic (a painkiller) that protects against many pathogens responsible for human infections. As it is considered an anti-inflammatory, holy basil could ease inflammation and joint pain, including arthritis and fibromyalgia.

History:

Holy basil is described as ‘the incomparable one’ in the consummate text on Ayurveda written around 1000BC, and is considered to be the incarnation of Tulasi or Vrindavani, a consort of Lord Vishnu. The plant is thought to be a symbol of fidelity and helpful in attaining spiritual enlightenment.

Typical Uses:

The appropriate dose of holy basil depends on several factors such as the user’s age, health, and several other conditions. However we suggest taking 1 to 4 capsules of our Holy Basil 20:1 daily.

Sources:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4296439/