Not to be confused with the sweet basil that we commonly use in the West, holy basil (also known as tusli), is a small leafy plant which produces elongated green leaves and small white or purple flowers. Originating from Asia, the holy basil plant is a household staple throughout southeast Asian countries. The Hindu religion considers it to be a holy plant. Holy basil is an adaptogen, and contains vitamins A and C, as well as zinc, calcium and iron. It has a licorice-like, slightly peppery taste. Holy basil can be added to savory dishes, made into herbal teas, incorporated into smoothies, and more.
Cortisol is a hormone that oversees many vital aspects of your body system. It is best known for its contribution to your body’s “fight or flight” response. It also helps regulate blood pressure, controls the circadian rhythm, oversees metabolism, and contributes to your body’s immune response. If cortisol is out of whack, it can significantly disrupt many or all of these aspects. Holy basil can help stabilize cortisol. As an adaptogen, holy basil has been traditionally used in Ayurveda to assist in the body’s natural process of healthy, normal stress response. This is especially significant if the body’s cortisol level is unbalanced.
We sell powdered holy basil (easily added to smoothies, savory dishes), holy basil capsules, and incorporate holy basil in many of our herbal products. Be sure to check them out!
Sources:
Winston, David. Adaptogens: herbs for strength, stamina, and stress relief. Simon and Schuster, 2019.
Duke, James A. "The garden pharmacy: basil as the holy hindu highness." Alternative & Complementary Therapies 14, no. 1 (2008): 5-8.
Wohlmuth, Hans. "Sacred basil–an Ayurvedic adaptogen." Information & Research On Botanical Medicine (2000).
Raazmaheswari, Bina R. "Usage of holy basil for various aspects." Bulletin of Environment Pharmocology and Life Sciences 1, no. 10 (2012): 67-9.
Holm, Yvonne. "Bioactivity of basil." In Basil, pp. 117-139. CRC Press, 1999.