Holy Basil!
Reasons to Use Holy Basil
Holy Basil is renowned for its exceptional health benefits. Known as “The Incomparable One,” it held sacred status in Hindu mythology and among Indian royalty. Modern science confirms its ability to balance the mind, body, and spirit.
Holy basil is a small, aromatic shrub belonging to the mint family. It is common in South Asia, where locals have used it for centuries to help the body adapt, balance, and boost resilience.
The Source of Holy Basil
Holy Basil, known as ‘the queen of all herbs’, is a sacred plant in Indian culture. It is called Tulsi among other names in Indian languages.
Holy Basil/Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum) grows easily with minimal maintenance. You might have seen it around your neighborhood or even started growing it at home!
Holy Basil Benefits
1. Reduces blood pressure:
Holy Basil can lower blood pressure and hypertension. Regular consumption reduces systolic and diastolic blood pressure and prevents plaque buildup on artery walls, helping prevent heart disease.
2. Support for diabetes:
Holy Basil may fight blood sugar spikes by slowing food breakdown into glucose. Consult your doctor before drinking Holy Basil, as it can sometimes lower sugar levels too much.
3. Relief for arthritis:
Holy Basil is beneficial for arthritis pain relief due to its anti-inflammatory properties, making it suitable for managing pain during flare-ups.
4. Rich in antioxidants:
Holy Basil is abundant in antioxidants: Holy Basil exhibits greater antioxidant activity compared to many other commonly consumed substances, particularly green tea.
5. Supports respiratory function:
Holy Basil supports the respiratory system by breaking up phlegm and mucus, which can be beneficial for colds or congestion. It may help manage respiratory issues like asthma and bronchitis by aiding the expulsion of phlegm from the lungs.
6. Antibacterial properties:
It also helps combat bacterial infections such as strep throat and sinus infections.
7. Reduces anxiety:
Holy Basil can calm anxiety and stress while boosting focus and mental clarity.
8. Improved Digestion:
Holy Basil is recognized for its natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It aids in preventing further damage to the gastrointestinal system, potentially alleviating issues such as indigestion, other digestive disorders, stomach aches, and diarrhea. Additionally, Holy Basil contributes to bowel cleansing.
9. Natural Antibiotic Properties:
Holy Basil is renowned for its antibiotic, antiviral, and antifungal properties. It helps combat candida, yeast infections, and common colds due to its decongestant and antihistamine-like effects. Additionally, its broad-spectrum antiviral and antifungal capabilities make it effective against various infections.
10. Reduces Stress:
Holy Basil contains essential oils and enzymes that may help reduce stress and anxiety levels, as well as lower blood pressure and cortisol levels.
11. Boosts Immunity:
Holy Basil contains antioxidants which can support the immune system in combating infections and diseases.
12. Increases Energy:
Holy Basil is rich in potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure, restore electrolytes, and hydrate the body. This can boost energy levels.
13. Lowers Cholesterol:
Holy Basil contains saponins that reduce bad cholesterol and triglycerides, lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases like atherosclerosis and heart attacks.
14. Prevents Cancer:
Holy Basil’s antioxidants neutralize free radicals, preventing damage to cells and potentially reducing cancer risk.
15. Reduced Menstrual Pain:
Holy Basil assists in relaxing the uterine muscles, resulting in a reduction of menstrual pain and cramps.
16. Prevents Kidney Stones:
Holy Basil’s diuretic properties remove toxins from the body, which helps prevent kidney stones.
17. Prevents Premature Greying:
Holy Basil’s antioxidants help prevent hair loss and premature greying by removing free radicals, restoring hair color and shine.
18. Weight Loss:
Holy Basil’s diuretic properties detoxify the body and reduce bloating, similar to green tea.
19. Boosts Vitamin C Levels:
Holy Basil is rich in Vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and helps combat colds and coughs.
20. Supports Urinary Function:
Holy Basil is a highly effective diuretic that assists the body in eliminating toxins and waste by enhancing urinary excretion.
21. Improves Skin Conditions
Holy Basil’s antibacterial properties make it effective for treating acne and skin ailments. Applied topically, it purifies the skin; ingested, it purifies the blood by destroying harmful microorganisms.
Dosing:
Tincture (1:5 or 1:2): 2–3 mL (40–60 drops), three times per day.
Tea: Add 1 tsp. dried leaf to 8 oz. hot water. Steep, covered, for 5–10 minutes. Take 4 oz. up to three times per day.
Capsules: Various forms of encapsulated products are available. These include extracts in gel caps, dried or powdered herbs in capsules, and standardized extracts (2 percent ursolic acid) in capsules. The typical dose is one to three capsules per day.
Holy Basil Side Effects
Research indicates that Holy Basil should be avoided by pregnant women, individuals trying to conceive, certain diabetic patients, and those on anti-clotting medications. Excessive consumption may lead to liver damage, nausea, diarrhea, rapid heartbeat, and convulsions.
Holy Basil has various side effects including blood thinning, hormonal changes affecting fertility, drug interactions, and significantly lowering blood sugar levels. These potential effects should be considered before incorporating Holy Basil into your health regimen.
Fertility: There is concern that the consumption of Holy Basil may affect male fertility, as laboratory tests indicate that regular use can reduce sperm count levels. Although this effect is not commonly reported anecdotally, men experiencing fertility issues may want to consider alternative options for beverages.
Eugenol Overdose: Eugenol, found in Holy Basil, offers health benefits but can be dangerous if overconsumed. Excessive eugenol may cause shortness of breath, blood in urine, nausea, dizziness, and coughing up blood.
Blood Sugar: Holy Basil has shown potential in lowering and balancing blood sugar levels, which can be beneficial for individuals at risk of diabetes or those managing the condition. However, it is important to note that excessively low blood sugar levels, or hypoglycemia, can be dangerous. Therefore, individuals with diabetes should consult a healthcare professional before incorporating Holy Basil into their diet.
Blood Thinner: Stop taking this natural blood thinner 1-2 weeks before surgery to avoid complications.
Conclusion:
Holy basil, Tulsi as it is called in India, is an herb with a long history of use.
It has been used for centuries to help build stress resilience. More recently, there have been promising studies done on the effect that holy basil can have on supporting brain health and blood sugar regulation.
The research suggests that holy basil may be able to help reduce fatigue associated with chronic stress by helping regulate cortisol levels through its adaptogenic properties – which means it helps your body respond better when stressed out!
Consider trying this safe herb next time you’re feeling run down.
Hummingbird Creations own
Happy Gardening Everyone!
Love & Peace!
Judi
