Holy Basil

Discover Holy Basil Supplement

Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum), also frequently called Tulsi, is native to the Indian subcontinent and has been cultivated and cherished for over 3,000 years. It thrives in tropical and subtropical climates and can be found in various parts of India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia. Tulsi holds a special place in culinary applications, traditional Ayurvedic medicine and spiritual symbolism throughout South Asia. In fact, it's common to have a Tulsi plant in Indian households in the courtyard or garden, and prayers are offered to it daily.

There are several varieties of Holy Basil, including Krishna Tulsi (with dark purple leaves), Rama Tulsi (with green leaves), and Vana Tulsi (a wild variety). Fun fact: the name "Tulsi" is derived from the Sanskrit word "Tulasi," meaning "the incomparable one." In Ayurveda, Holy Basil is often referred to as "The Queen of Herbs" due to its multiple demonstrated therapeutic attributes, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, analgesic, adaptogenic, cardio supportive, immunomodulatory, antistress, antidepressant, and anxiolytic effects. 

From a therapeutic point of view, Holy Basil is perhaps best known as a naturally protective herb that can safely and effectively relieve symptoms of stress and anxiety and return the body to homeostasis. It is often recommended to downregulate stress hormones, notably cortisol, and counter metabolic stress by normalizing blood glucose, blood pressure and lipid levels and mitigating psychological stress thanks to its anxiolytic and antidepressant effects.

Key Health Benefits of Holy Basil Herb

• Helps The Body Better Handle Stress (chemical, physical, infectious, Emotional)
• Normalizes Blood Sugar And Blood Lipids
• Protects Against Infections
• Reduces Inflammation & Joint Pain
• Relieves Anxiety & Other Stress-Based Symptoms

Who Should Consider Holy Basil?

A quality Holy Basil supplement can benefit individuals seeking to enhance their overall health and well-being. Because of its well-known stress-reducing properties, it may be particularly advantageous for those grappling with high-stress lifestyles or looking to manage anxiety and improve their mental resilience. Additionally, this supplement may be exceptionally well suited to those looking to stimulate and support their immune system and anyone needing help to regulate blood sugar levels, whether or not they have a diagnosed metabolic condition like diabetes/pre-diabetes. Because of its cardio-supportive effects, Holy Basil is also an excellent supplement for anyone wanting to support their heart health.

Holy Basil Supplements: Forms And Formats

Holy Basil can be purchased fresh and used as a garnish in salads, soups, and sauces, or can be used to make juice, tea, or flavoured water. This herb is also widely available in supplement form, as an extract, in liquid, powdered, or capsule form. 

Typically, Holy Basil is recommended in a daily dosage range between 600 mg and 1,800 mg to be taken in multiple doses throughout the day. 

Considerations & Potential Side Effects

While Holy Basil is exceptionally safe and well tolerated, some individuals may experience mild side effects such as nausea, heartburn, or a mild allergic reaction. Additionally, it can interact with certain medications, so it's important to consult with a healthcare practitioner before incorporating it into your routine if you're taking prescription medications. Pregnant or nursing women, as well as people with bleeding disorders, should exercise caution, and Holy Basil should be discontinued before or after surgical procedures due to its potential to affect blood clotting.

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