What Is Holy Basil?

Holy basil, also known as tulsi, is a cooking herb and medicinal plant has been used for thousands of years in India. It is related to mint and sweet basil, although the flavor is much different. Holy basil is native to Asia, but it can grow in many places around the world. It works well both on its own and when combined with other herbs. 

How to Use Holy Basil (Common Uses)

Taken internally as a tea, decoction, powder, or extract. Visit our herbal blog for more information on learning how to cook with holy basil.

Medicinal Uses and Benefits of Holy Basil

Holy basil is a powerful antioxidant, digestive aid, and adaptogen herb.

Taken internally, holy basil can help to regulate the HPA axis. It can help to prevent the production of excess cortisol and adrenaline in the body, and at the same time help to increase dopamine and serotonin levels.

Holy basil is often taken to help achieve a mild sense of euphoric calm, while increasing energy, stamina, and the ability to deal with stress. It can have mild antidepressant effects for some people.

Holy basil can help to increase mental clarity and memory, and potentially even reduce the risk of age-related mental disorders. It is often used in combination with herbs such as rosemary and ginkgo for conditions such as brain fog, head trauma, and mood disorders. Holy basil increases blood circulation to the brain.

Holy basil has a balancing effect on the immune system. It can help to decrease excessive immune system responses, such as allergies, while helping to build overall immune system strength. Holy basil has antibacterial and antiviral benefits.

As a digestive herb, holy basil has carminative benefits, and can be useful for those who experience gas or bloating.

In Ayurvedic medicine, holy basil is traditionally used as an herb for rejuvenation and may be used for a variety of conditions. For gastrointestinal issues, it may be suggested for indigestion, stomach aches, diarrhea, or nausea. For those with difficulty concentrating due to cannabis use, holy basil is often a suggested remedy. Holy basil may also be recommended for cold, flu, and similar conditions.

Holy basil may help to lower blood sugar, especially when used in combination with fenugreek seed.

Active Constituents in Holy Basil

Oleanolic acid, ursolic acid, flavonoids, linalool, carvacrol, eugenol, caryophyllene, triterpenoic acids.

Notable Facts About Holy Basil

Hindu mythology describes holy basil as symbolizing a healing mother goddess. Holy basil is considered the queen of herbs. In Sanskrit, tulsi means “beyond comparison”. Occasionally, the leaves of holy basil will be laid on the dead as a protection for their journey to the afterlife.