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organic holy basil leaf extract

Also known as: Ocimum tenuiflorum, Ocimum sanctum, Ocimum gratissimum, Holy basil, Tulsi

Overview

Holy basil, scientifically known as *Ocimum tenuiflorum* (among other species), is a plant native to the Indian subcontinent and is revered in Ayurvedic medicine for its adaptogenic properties. Commonly known as tulsi, it is used to promote overall health and well-being, particularly in managing stress and anxiety. The plant contains various beneficial compounds, including eugenol, rosmarinic acid, and other phenolic compounds, which contribute to its therapeutic effects. Holy basil is available in various forms, including herbal extracts, capsules, teas, and powders. Research on holy basil is growing, with increasing clinical trials exploring its potential benefits. While the quality of evidence varies, several studies support its use for stress reduction and metabolic health.

Benefits

Holy basil has several evidence-based benefits, primarily related to stress reduction and improved sleep quality. Studies have demonstrated significant reductions in stress markers like cortisol and improvements in subjective stress perception within 8 weeks of supplementation. Some evidence also suggests improvements in subjective sleep quality. Additionally, holy basil shows potential benefits for metabolic health, including managing diabetes and metabolic syndrome, although more research is needed in this area. These benefits are generally observed in adults experiencing stress. While significant improvements in stress measures have been noted, further data is required to fully quantify effect sizes and clinical significance.

How it works

Holy basil's mechanism of action involves antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which influence stress response pathways in the body. It may affect the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which plays a crucial role in regulating stress responses. The active compounds, such as eugenol and other phenolic compounds, may interact with various molecular targets, although the specific mechanisms are not fully understood. Holy basil extracts are generally well-tolerated, but limited data is available on their absorption and bioavailability. Further research is needed to fully elucidate the precise mechanisms through which holy basil exerts its beneficial effects.

Side effects

Holy basil is generally considered safe for most people, but high doses may pose some risks. Common side effects are not consistently reported, but some individuals may experience mild gastrointestinal upset. Rare side effects are not well-documented. Potential drug interactions exist, particularly with blood thinners and diabetes medications, so caution is advised for individuals taking these drugs. Holy basil is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to potential reproductive effects. Special caution is also advised for individuals with reproductive concerns. It is important to adhere to recommended dosages and consult with a healthcare professional before using holy basil, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.

Dosage

While a minimum effective dose of holy basil is not well-established, extracts are often used in the range of 300-500 mg per day. Typical dosages range between 300-1000 mg per day. The maximum safe dose is not clearly defined, but high doses may pose risks. Holy basil can be taken at any time, but morning intake may be beneficial for stress management. Common forms include capsules and teas. Bioavailability may vary based on extraction methods. No specific cofactors are required for its effectiveness. It is important to start with a lower dose and gradually increase it as needed, while monitoring for any adverse effects.

FAQs

Is holy basil safe to use during pregnancy?

No, holy basil should be avoided during pregnancy due to potential reproductive effects. Consult with a healthcare professional for safer alternatives.

When is the best time to take holy basil?

Holy basil can be taken at any time, but morning intake may be beneficial for managing stress throughout the day. Consistency is key for optimal results.

What results can I expect from taking holy basil?

You can expect reduced stress levels and potentially improved sleep quality with regular use. However, it is not a cure-all, and lifestyle changes are also important.

Can holy basil cure stress?

No, holy basil is not a cure for stress. It can help manage stress levels, but it should be used in conjunction with other stress-reducing practices and lifestyle changes.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5376420/ – This systematic review analyzed 31 articles and found that tulsi is effective for managing lifestyle-related chronic diseases, including stress and metabolic issues. The review highlights the potential of tulsi in addressing various health conditions, but notes that the quality of included studies varied, suggesting a need for more rigorous research.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9524226/ – This randomized controlled trial (RCT) demonstrated significant reductions in stress markers and improved subjective sleep quality after 8 weeks of holy basil supplementation. The study supports the use of holy basil for stress management, but acknowledges the limitation of relying on subjective measures for assessing sleep quality improvements.
https://www.fhi.no/contentassets/f08343d5155e413284f5c31a6b415b51/fhi-report-holy-basil-271123.pdf – This risk assessment, based on animal studies, indicates potential reproductive risks associated with high doses of holy basil. The findings suggest caution in using high doses, particularly for pregnant women and individuals with reproductive concerns, while acknowledging that animal data may not fully translate to human effects.
https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/basil-benefits – This article provides a general overview of the health benefits of basil, including its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It highlights basil's potential to support heart health, reduce inflammation, and protect against certain diseases, while emphasizing the need for further research to confirm these benefits.
https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6694/14/10/2375 – This study investigates the protective effects of holy basil against metabolic disorders. The research suggests that holy basil may help regulate blood sugar levels, improve lipid profiles, and reduce oxidative stress, indicating its potential as a complementary therapy for metabolic health management.