Tulsi (Holy) Basil
Ocimum sanctum
Main active constituents
Parts Used: Leaves
Tulsi contains Vitamin A and C as well as Zinc, Iron, chlorophyll and phytonutrients, oleanolic acid, ursolic acid, rosmarinic acid, eugenol, camphene, cineole, carvacrol, linalool, β-caryophyllene, β-elemene, and germacrene D.
Physiological Effects
With a rich history stretching back thousands of years, Tulsi is revered in India for its medicinal and religious qualities. Also known as Holy Basil and the “Incomparable One”, the herb grows as a small shrub with delicate lavender flowers and is considered sacred in Hinduism.
As well as its religious significance, Tulsi is a prime herb in the ancient Indian healing system of Ayurveda. It is considered the “elixir of life”, promoting longevity and balance within the body, especially of the “doshas” (the three bodily bio-elements – Vata, Pitta and Kapha). It is a natural protector of organs and tissues with powerful cleansing properties and adaptogenic qualities.
Tulsi Benefits
Stress / Anxiety
Tulsi benefits many types of stress including physical, mental and metabolic. In the case of physical stress, Tulsi is powerfully antioxidant, supporting the body in its efforts to detoxify. It enhances the activity of endogenous antioxidants and antioxidant enzymes such as glutathione and superoxide-dismutase.
If we are mentally and emotionally stressed, free radical levels go up in the body. Holy Basil has been shown to decrease the amount of cortisol (the stress hormone), due to its rich phytochemical content. Three specific compounds are responsible for this action; ocimumosides A and B and 4-allyl-1-O-beta-D-glucopyronosyl-2-hydroxybenzene – the latter having been shown in the laboratory to exhibit anti-anxiety properties.
As a herbal adaptogen, Tulsi helps to bring the endocrine system and hormones back into balance. Hormone imbalances can be the root cause of many problems including insomnia, fatigue, digestive issues, depression, weight gain and more.
The Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine reports that Tulsi has anti-anxiety and antidepressant properties that are comparable to diazepam and other antidepressants. In one study it was found that subjects who took 500mg of Tulsi extract daily felt significantly less anxious and depressed, as well as feeling more sociable.
Oral Health
Chewing the leaves of Tulsi to support dental health has been a part of the Hindu culture for millennia.
Modern science has discovered that this herb contains many phytochemicals that combat oral bacteria, relieve the pain caused by toothache and fight candida.
Containing antibacterial agents such as carracrol and tetpene, Holy Basil can make an effective treatment for common oral infections.
A study published in “The Journal of Clinical and Experimental Dentistry” found that a mouthwash containing Tulsi “was comparable to chlorhexidine with respect to its anti-plaque action with no statistically significant difference between the two.”
Additionally, the same study found that the herb does indeed have powerful antibacterial qualities. It was shown to be effective against two proven periodontopathogens, P. intermedia and F. nucleatum.
Respiratory Health
Tulsi leaves are rich in the compounds camphene, eugenol and cineole which help to relieve congestion and provide relief from the symptoms of many other respiratory disorders.
Holy Basil is also “anti-tussive”, meaning it helps to relieve persistent coughing, and has immunomodulatory properties. With anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory
Contraindications/Precautions
Tulsi may reduce the effectiveness of making the blood clot. It is recommended that you stop taking Tulsi two weeks before scheduled surgery.
Not to be used during pregnancy.
Disclaimer
This information is intended only as a general reference for further exploration, and is not a replacement for professional health advice. This content does not provide dosage information, format recommendations, toxicity levels, or possible interactions with prescription drugs. Accordingly, this information should be used only under the direct supervision of a qualified health practitioner such as a naturopathic physician.