Holy basil is a plant which heralds from the other side of the world. Like its unique name, holy basil has uncommon medicinal properties that can both soothe and strengthen. Here is a look at holy basil and its benefits.
What Is Holy Basil?
Holy basil, traditionally called Tulsi, is a perennial flowering plant that is both native to and renowned in India, and other east Asian nations.
Multiple variations of the holy basil plant have a long history of use in the Indian Ayurvedic tradition of natural medicine. One primary strain of holy basil is Ocimum sanctum, which has purple leaves, which sets it apart from other strains that have green leaves.
The term “holy” in holy basil is preceded by the plant’s long-revered status in India, where it has been considered sacred, often planted near Hindu shrines.
While we do not regard holy basil with the same extravagance here in the U.S., we can still derive benefit from the potent extract of Ocimum sanctum leaves.
The Benefits of Holy Basil
The extract of Ocimum sanctum is often combined with other, better-known herbs. However, the soothing and strengthening benefits of holy basil leaf extract alone are worth knowing about:
Metabolism can be supported on multiple fronts with the consumption of holy basil. This is a result of its antioxidant properties. These properties of holy basil can contribute to reductions in both blood sugar and blood pressure, as well as LDL cholesterol and general inflammation. These benefits regulate and settle your body’s metabolism and improve your health. Those who could best derive these benefits from holy basil would be those who are obese, diabetic, or who have high cholesterol.
Mitigating stress and improving mood could be achieved by taking holy basil. Some studies have shown that it can help with both of these and that it could improve attention and memory as a result. Reducing stress is one of the most common reasons individuals take holy basil.
Immune support could also be gained by taking holy basil. This benefit is likely due to the presence of eugenol, a healthy polyphenol, in the plant leaves. This could be effective for combating various types of infection. At least one study has shown that taking holy basil on a daily basis correlates with an improved immune response in adults.
Mitigating migraines: Holy basil is regarded in Ayurvedic medicine for its potential to reduce migraines. Reducing inflammation, as well as reducing stress and the muscular tension that comes with it are likely responsible for this benefit.
Sleep could be improved with the regular supplementation of holy basil, according to at least one credible study.
Holy basil is a unique traditional herb with a variegated array of soothing and strengthening benefits. Consider how taking it could help you, and talk to your healthcare provider about it.