Holy basil, also known as tulsi, is an herb originally grown in the tropical climates of India and nearby countries. The scientific name is Ocimum sanctum or Ocimum tenuiflorum L.
In addition to being an herbal supplement, the holy basil tulsi plant is an important part of Hindu culture. Those in the largest Hindu sect, Vaishnavism, use tulsi for worship, prayer, and other spiritual rituals.
In India, tulsi is an important antioxidant in a holistic medicinal practice. This form of traditional medicine is called Ayurveda, which considers health problems to be imbalances within a person’s mind, body, and spirit.
Health Benefits
Holy basil has a calming effect that can help battle stress and give you a boost of energy, and it offers some antimicrobial benefits, too, which help kill bacterias. Here are a few of the health benefits of holy basil:
Improves Asthma Symptoms
Early studies indicate that holy basil may reduce airway swelling in people with asthma. However, one of these studies relied on animals, and though two clinical trials did show improvement among a group of people taking holy basil to help with swollen airways, the studies didn’t include a group who did not take holy basil, for the sake of comparison. While helping with breathing and reducing irritation of airways is a common use of holy basil, more research is needed to be sure these effects are confirmed.
Helps Symptoms of Type II Diabetes
Animal and human studies have suggested that holy basil can lower both blood glucose and cholesterol levels. One study found that rats who were given holy basil saw a 26% decrease in blood sugar after 30 days. Studies with human participants show similarly promising results, suggesting that holy basil may be helpful in easing symptoms for people with type 2 diabetes.
This can make diabetes easier for you to manage.