What Is Holy Basil?
The holy basil plant (Ocimum sanctum L.), commonly known as Tulsi or Tulasi in India, is a leafy herb belonging to the mint family. There are three variants of tulsi (in India) – Rama Tulsi, Krishna Tulsi, and Vana Tulsi – and each of them is used in the same way to treat ailments. They have a similar taste as well. The holy basil is possibly native to North Central India – and grows throughout the eastern world tropics. It has been cultivated for more than 5,000 years and is best known as a culinary herb predominantly used in Italian and Southeast Asian cuisines. That’s a bit about the herb. But the upcoming benefits are a direct consequence of the herb’s ingredients.
The Nutrition Data
Source: USDA And now, we head to the most important part of this post – how holy basil can make your life better.
How Does Basil Benefit My Health?
Holy basil is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It helps combat a plethora of serious ailments like cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. It also fights inflammation. Most of the benefits of tulsi are medicinal, which means it can be used as a medicine as well.
1. Is Good For The Heart
Cardiovascular disease is one of the largest cause of mortality in the world today – with hypertension and high blood cholesterol being the main causes. Various studies have found basil to be particularly helpful in this regard. Basil contains flavonoids, which reduce the risk of platelets forming clots on the arterial walls. This eventually prevents coronary heart disease and heart attacks. As per an Australian study, basil can help prevent several features of the metabolic syndrome – heart disease being one of them. The herb is also credited with preventing numerous cardiac disorders (1). Basil is also known to lower cholesterol levels, preventing heart ailments as a consequence. Ingesting basil leaves can lead to significant changes in the fat molecules – the leaves can lower bad cholesterol and increase the good cholesterol (2).
2. May Treat Sore Throat
Tulsi can be an excellent cure for sore throat. Studies show that the herb can work as an excellent remedy for respiratory ailments (3). You can boil the leaves in water and drink it. You can also gargle the water while it is warm.
3. Relieves Stress
In most countries, basil is considered a powerful adaptogen (anti-stress agent). The herb also possesses significant anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties, which can help manage stress. Basil can also regulate the cortisol levels in the body (cortisol is known as the ‘stress hormone’). Lower cortisol levels can result in reduced anxiety and emotional stress. Basil also works to increase energy and enhance focus, both of which help one deal with stress. Another Australian study states that basil can address psychological stress (in addition to physical, chemical, and metabolic stress) through a powerful combination of pharmacological actions. It also protects the organs of your body against chemical stress (4). Another Indian study attributes the anti-stress properties of basil to its antioxidants. The study, which was conducted on albino rabbits, found positive results (5). As per a report, basil tea can promote energy and alleviate feelings of stress (6).
4. Helps Fight Cancer
Surprisingly enough, basil could be your answer to cancer. One study states that basil extracts can have radioprotective properties, which can help kill tumor cells in the body. Basil contains eugenol, which was found to have anticancer properties. Other phytochemicals in basil (like rosmarinic acid, myretenal, luteolin, and apigenin) also have the potential to prevent various forms of cancer (7). In another study, supplementation of basil (at a dosage of 300 mg per kilogram of bodyweight) was found to reduce the formation of cancerous enzymes significantly. Additionally, healthy enzymatic activity saw an increase post the supplementation. In another study, basil leaf extract was found to decrease tumorigenicity and metastasis of human pancreatic cancer cells (8). It was also found to retard breast cancer development (9).
5. Regulates Blood Sugar Levels
Basil might help increase insulin secretions in people with type 2 diabetes, as per research. The herb can also lower fasting and post-meal levels of blood glucose. Studies show it has anti-diabetic activity as well (10). Another study states that basil can support blood sugar regulation (11). Patients with type 2 diabetes had reported improved blood sugar levels post ingestion of tulsi. The phytochemical compounds in tulsi – like the saponins, triterpenes, and flavonoids – are responsible for its hypoglycemic effect.
6. Protects The Liver
In a study, basil leaf extract had shown hepatoprotective properties. Albino rats (with paracetamol-induced liver damage) that were fed this extract showed signs of improvement. There was a reduction of sinusoidal congestion and cloudy swelling within the liver of the rats (12). The herb also enhances the activity of liver detoxification enzymes, like the cytochrome P450, which deactivates toxic chemicals and helps in their excretion. However, a few studies state otherwise. Individuals taking basil supplements might experience some adverse liver effects. Hence, consult your doctor before taking basil (the supplements, especially) for treating your liver condition.
7. Aids Weight Loss
Some research says that basil can help lower blood glucose and blood cholesterol levels – two factors that can lead to weight gain. And as we saw, it also reduces cortisol, the stress hormone, which can also induce weight gain. You can use tulsi water to aid weight loss. A recent study reported an improvement in the lipid profiles and BMI in obese patients following an intake of 250 mg capsules of tulsi leaf extract (13). Do talk to your doctor before using basil for this purpose – as research is ongoing in this regard.
8. Boosts Immunity
Numerous animal studies have found basil leaf to have potent immunomodulatory effects. The extract also showed promise in improving immunity in bovine (related to cattle) models. Basil was also found to treat a wide range of respiratory disorders – asthma being one of them. Others include bronchitis and lung infections, which are caused primarily because of a weakened immune system. Basil liquefies the phlegm and is effective in treating allergic bronchitis, asthma, and eosinophilic lung disease (14). As a traditional remedy, tulsi leaves are also used for treating fever and the associated common cold. You need to chew on a few of the leaves to get relief from the symptoms of cold and flu. Especially in the rainy season, when the risk of contracting a fever is high, you can boil some basil leaves in water and drink it. And if you are suffering from severe fever, a decoction of basil leaves and a pinch of powdered cardamom can help. Basil leaf extract can also be used to heal wounds quickly (in addition to cuts and burns). It can especially heal wounds post surgery and also protect them from any potential infection.
9. Protects Against Inflammation
Basil leaves help fight inflammation and can even help relieve joint pains caused by inflammation. Basil achieves this, thanks to eucalyptol, one of its main ingredients. Eucalyptol reduces inflammation and the associated pain by enhancing blood circulation around the wounded area (15). Basil also works as an analgesic and relieves pain.
10. Protects Blood Vessels
As it possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, basil can help the muscles controlling blood vessel function to contract and relax. It also helps remove the plaque in blood vessels, protecting them from damage (16). However, more research is required in this regard.
11. Improves Oral Health
According to an Indian study, basil serves as an excellent mouthwash to control oral plaque. This is because the extract has a very high antibacterial activity (17). Another study focuses on the antimicrobial activity of basil. The herb was found to offer preventive properties to patients with periodontal disease. The upside of the herb is that it doesn’t cause any undesirable effects – which otherwise happens with the use of OTC antibacterial agents (18).
12. Prevents Eye Disorders
We know how vulnerable our eyes are. They are susceptible to numerous fungal, viral, and bacterial infections. Basil can help fight these infections, one of them being conjunctivitis. And the soothing and anti-inflammatory properties of basil protect the eye from free radicals and environmental damage. Basil leaves also help prevent serious eye ailments like glaucoma and macular degeneration. They can play an important role in treating cataracts and other vision issues.
13. Improves Abdominal Health
Basil works great for abdominal health. These include stomach ache, flatulence, acidity, and constipation. It was also found to act against stomach ulcers (19). For treating stomach ache, all you need are the juice of basil leaves (10 mL) and 20 mL of lime juice and ginger juice (as required). Mix well and drink it up. Basil seeds cooked in water can give relief from hyperacidity.
14. Treats Headache
Research highlights the traditional use of basil to treat headache. Holy basil can be taken in numerous forms – either as a juice or dried powder or as a herbal tea mixed with other herbs or honey to enhance its beneficial properties (20).
What Are The Benefits For My Skin?
Holy basil has antimicrobial properties. It helps fight acne and other skin infections.
15. Prevents Acne
Basil leaves purify your blood by removing toxins. The antibacterial and antifungal agents in the leaves help you achieve this. Apply the paste made from basil leaves (along with sandalwood paste or rose water) on your face. Leave it on for about 20 minutes, post which you can wash your face with cold water. Using tulsi tea for this purpose can also help treat acne. You can consume tulsi tea as well. This remedy can also help remove blackheads, acne scars and marks, and pimples. In fact, one Thailand study tells us how holy basil, in its suitable formulation, can help treat acne (21).
16. Relieves Skin Infections
Basil also possesses antibiotic properties, which play a role in treating infections. The leaves restrict the growth of bacteria like B. anthracis and E. coli that cause skin infections. A simple concoction prepared by grinding and boiling 250 grams of basil leaves along with sesame oil in an equal quantity can help treat infections like itching. Another simple mixture of ground basil leaves and an equal amount of lemon juice can help treat ringworm. Tulsi also has antimicrobial and antifungal properties, which help prevent numerous other skin infections (22). There are several Ayurvedic medicines as well that contain tulsi and have been effective against ringworm.
17. Treats Vitiligo And Eczema
Regular intake of basil leaves can improve the symptoms of vitiligo. It can have similar effects on eczema as well. One research article speaks of how the antioxidant activity of tulsi can help treat eczema (23). But since research is ongoing, we recommend you consult your doctor before using basil for this purpose as the concentration of the herb matters.
What About The Benefits For Hair?
Holy basil prevents hair loss by strengthening the hair follicles. It also treats dandruff and itching and prevents premature graying of hair.
18. Prevents Hair Loss
Making a paste of basil leaves and mixing it with your hair oil can work wonders for your hair. Apply this oil to your scalp and leave it on for about 30 minutes and then shampoo as usual. This mixture rejuvenates your hair follicles, keeps your scalp cool, and promotes circulation to your scalp. Tulsi is used as an effective remedy for hair loss. It is considered an important ingredient in herbal hair loss treatment. The herb works by strengthening the hair roots, thereby curbing hair fall (24).
19. Treats Dandruff
Simply add a small amount of basil oil to your regular hair oil and massage it thoroughly into your scalp. Basil improves blood circulation and reduces dandruff and the scalp itchiness that accompanies it. This remedy also treats dry scalp. Tulsi has been found to be effective in controlling four types of fungal strains that may cause dandruff. This effect of tulsi offers other benefits like improved hair smoothness and hair shine, along with ease of combing and reduced frizz (25).
20. Prevents Premature Graying Of Hair
All you need to do is soak dried holy basil powder (you can prepare it at home by grinding a few basil leaves) along with amla powder in water overnight. The next morning, wash your hair with the mixture (after straining it). This remedy helps prevent premature graying of hair and treat hair fall. This is one reason tulsi is considered an essential ingredient in herbal hair treatments (26). These are the benefits. But how do you use this herb in your cooking? Let’s find out!
How To Use Basil In Cooking?
Here are a few tips to use basil in cooking:
You can eat a few leaves on an empty stomach. You can mix the leaves with a concoction of ginger and honey and drink the tea. You can also add chopped leaves to your favorite dishes. If you want the most intense flavor, add basil at the end of the cooking process. If you want the full flavor, never use dried basil. Keep this in mind when substituting dried basil for fresh. Also, while substituting, triple the amount of dried basil. One half-ounce of dried basil leaves equals one cup of chopped fresh basil.
Now that you know how to use the herb in cooking, how about trying a popular recipe?
Any Recipes?
Some of the popular basil recipes include basil pesto, basil orange salmon, and the holy basil tea. All taste wonderfully delicious and are super-healthy.
Holy Basil Tea
1 sprig of basil 5 drops of honey ½ teaspoon of ginger 1 dash of lemon juice 3 cups of water ¼ teaspoon of green cardamom
You can take this tea three times every day. Is there any particular dosage for consuming holy basil? Let’s find out!
How To Consume Holy Basil Leaves
You can take 4 leaves (6 to 12 grams) daily, in water as a decoction. If you are taking a supplement, take 1 capsule (250 to 500 mg) daily, or better, as recommended by your doctor or therapist. If you are taking tulsi extract (also called tulsi ark, which has similar benefits), you can go for 3 grams of it. Here are some interesting facts about basil.
Any Super Facts?
Basil is versatile. It can be used fresh or in its dry form. It can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. Basil contains certain chemicals that insects, especially mosquitoes, don’t like (but they don’t affect humans, by the way). So, if you want to keep mosquitoes away, keep basil nearby. Basil is worshiped in different religions. Apart from being considered holy by the Hindus, basil is also used to prepare holy water in certain orthodox churches in some countries like Bulgaria, Serbia, and Macedonia. Basil is part of the mint family – some other herbs in the family are rosemary, lavender, and oregano.
Great! So, how do you grow this plant? Are there any rules you need to follow? Scroll down to find out.
How To Grow Basil Leaves
Planting
To plant outside, wait until the soil is at a temperature of at least 70o F. The plant won’t grow without heat. Basil needs to be in an area that is exposed to 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily. The soil must be moist and well-drained. Plant the seeds about ¼-inch deep and about 10 inches apart. If you are planning to cook with these plants, plant the seeds in clean soil (don’t use fertilizers that leave harmful residues).
Caring
Basil plants like moisture. If you live in a hot area, use mulch around them. Every time a branch has six to eight leaves, prune the branches to the first set of leaves. Repeat this. After 6 weeks, pinch off the center shoot. This prevents early flowering. You can cut the flowers off if they do happen to grow. In case the weather is going to be cold, ensure you harvest your basil beforehand.
Harvesting
Start picking the leaves as soon as they are 6 to 8 inches tall. Ensure to pick the leaves regularly to encourage growth during summers. Even if you don’t need the leaves, just pick them to let the plant grow. You can freeze the leaves. The best method to store basil is freezing.
In case you can’t grow basil, you can buy it. Keep these points in mind.
How To Buy And Store Basil
Buying
Look for fresh and vibrant green leaves. They must have no dark spots or any signs of decay.
Storing
You can layer fresh basil leaves in damp paper towels inside a plastic bag and refrigerate for up to 4 days. If it is basil with stalks attached, place in a glass of water and cover with a plastic bag (it must be secured to the glass). Store them in the refrigerator. Change the water daily and use them within a week. Don’t wash the leaves until you are ready to use them.
You can buy basil leaves from your nearest supermarket. Or you can buy tulsi syrup as well. It has the same benefit as the leaves – and some people find it easier to consume. You can also buy tulsi tablets from the nearest drugstore (after consulting your doctor, obviously). But before you do so, you also need to know something else…
What Are The Side Effects?
Might Cause Complications In Pregnant And Breastfeeding Women
Though safe in normal amounts, basil can cause issues in pregnant and breastfeeding women if taken in large amounts. To stay safe, avoid use. Tulsi may have anti-fertility effects, which is another reason pregnant women must stay away from the herb (26).
Bleeding Disorders
Basil extracts might slow blood clotting and increase bleeding. Hence, avoid use if you are susceptible to bleeding (27). Also, stop use at least two weeks before a scheduled surgery.
Low Blood Pressure
Basil contains high levels of potassium and can lower blood pressure (28). This can be an issue for people with low blood pressure or who are taking medications to treat high blood pressure – as basil can lower blood pressure way too much.
Conclusion
Holy basil – its benefits are as holy as its name. That is why you must include this in your routine. You sure are going to do that, aren’t you? Get to know holy basil and how it can benefit you by revitalizing your skin and promoting hair growth. Check the infographic below. Do tell us how this post has helped you. Your feedback will help us serve you better. Is chewing basil leaves good for your health? Yes. What is panch basil? It is one form of basil that is known to cure cold and cough. Why are Hindus told not to use basil on Sundays? As per the religion, tulsi plant fasts on Sundays and hence, must not be used. What are the benefits of drinking basil water? It is nothing but basil tea. And the benefits are whatever we spoke of in this post. What is the proper way to pick basil leaves off of a basil plant to ensure it will continue to grow? The best way to pick leaves off the plant is by pinching off a piece of the stem. What is a good substitute for Holy basil? Mediterranean basil – as it is the easiest to find and versatile as well. Does holy basil make you sleepy? Yes, holy basil essential oil has a moderate sedative effect that may help relax your mind and body and work as a gentle sleeping aid (29). Is basil good for kidneys? Research suggests that basil extract may exert a protective effect on the kidneys due to its high antioxidant content (30). Does holy basil increase testosterone? According to an animal study, holy basil increases serum testosterone levels while decreasing sperm count, LH (luteinizing hormone), and FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) (31). Does holy basil affect the thyroid? Holy basil is considered to be beneficial for the thyroid as it helps regulate thyroid hormones and can be used in conjunction with other treatments to improve thyroid function (32), (33).
