Holixer
Also known as: Holy Basil, Tulsi, Ocimum sanctum, Ocimum tenuiflorum
Overview
Ocimum tenuiflorum, commonly known as Holy Basil or Tulsi, is an aromatic herb native to India and Southeast Asia. It is revered in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for its adaptogenic properties, which help the body adapt to stress and promote overall health. The plant contains a variety of bioactive compounds, including rosmarinic acid, luteolin, and eugenol, contributing to its therapeutic effects. Historically utilized for stress relief, enhancing sleep quality, and boosting general well-being, Holy Basil's medicinal use has been supported by several clinical trials, indicating its potential effectiveness in stress management and sleep enhancement. Despite the promising findings, research quality varies, with some studies conducted by supplement manufacturers. The herb is traditionally consumed in various forms, including teas, capsules, and powders.
Benefits
Research indicates that Ocimum tenuiflorum offers several evidence-backed health benefits. Notably, it is effective in stress management, with human studies demonstrating significant reductions in perceived stress scores and cortisol levels. Improvements in sleep quality have also been observed, with some studies reporting up to 50% enhancement compared to placebo groups. Additionally, Holy Basil may provide benefits for anxiety and mood enhancement, though further research is needed to solidify these claims. Individuals experiencing chronic stress or sleep disturbances are likely to benefit the most. Most benefits may be noticeable within two weeks of supplementation, making it a viable short-term stress-relief option.
How it works
Ocimum tenuiflorum acts as an adaptogen, which helps the body manage stress by modulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. It inhibits cortisol release and antagonizes corticotropin-releasing factor 1 (CRF1) receptors, which play a crucial role in the body's stress response. These interactions enhance the nervous and endocrine systems, promoting resilience against stress. This adaptogenic action is key in its overall effectiveness in reducing stress-related symptoms and supporting a balanced mood.
Side effects
Ocimum tenuiflorum is generally considered safe for most individuals when used as directed. Common side effects, occurring in more than 5% of users, have not been thoroughly documented but may include mild gastrointestinal issues. Uncommon side effects, affecting 1-5% of users, could include allergic reactions or interactions with specific medications. Rare side effects are not well studied. Caution is advised with potential drug interactions, particularly with blood thinners and diabetes medications due to its effects on blood sugar and clotting. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid this supplement due to limited safety data. Additionally, individuals with thyroid issues or those on antihypertensive medications should consult healthcare providers before using Holy Basil.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of Ocimum tenuiflorum typically ranges from 250 mg to 1200 mg per day, with common recommendations suggesting 250 mg daily for stress management. Although an optimal dosage is still not precisely established, higher doses may elevate the risk of side effects. The supplement can be taken at any time, but evening intake may be more beneficial for enhancing sleep quality. Dosage forms vary and include capsules, gummies, sachets, tablets, and effervescent powders, and bioavailability can be enhanced when consumed with fatty meals.
FAQs
How long does it take to see benefits?
Benefits can typically be observed within two weeks of starting supplementation.
Is it safe during pregnancy?
No, it is not recommended during pregnancy due to limited safety data.
Can it be taken with other supplements?
Generally safe to combine, but consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
What results can be expected?
Users report improvements in stress resilience and sleep quality.
Is Tulsi a sedative?
No, Tulsi promotes non-drowsy calmness rather than acting as a sedative.
Research Sources
- https://naturalremedieshumanhealth.com/holixer/ – This source discusses the adaptogenic properties of Holixer, showcasing its benefits in reducing stress and improving sleep quality, supported by clinical study results.
- https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0285012 – This study published in PLOS ONE revealed significant antistress effects of Ocimum tenuiflorum extract, demonstrating its ability to inhibit cortisol release and extend sleep quality in clinical settings.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3921/13/9/1040 – This article presents findings from stress management studies, emphasizing the efficacy of Holy Basil extracts in mitigating stress by lowering cortisol levels.
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/363227326_A_randomized_double-blind_placebo-controlled_trial_investigating_the_effects_of_an_Ocimum_tenuiflorum_Holy_Basil_extract_Holixer_on_stress_mood_and_sleep_in_adults_experiencing_stress/download – This randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled trial investigated the impact of Holixer on stress, mood, and sleep, yielding positive outcomes and supporting its therapeutic potential.
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/370525090_Ocimum_tenuiflorum_extract_HOLIXER_Possible_effects_on_hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal_HPA_axis_in_modulating_stress – This research explores the possible effects of Holixer on the HPA axis, elaborating its relevance in stress modulation through hormonal adjustments.
