Medicinal Uses of Holy Basil

Holy basil is a plant grown in India, where it is revered for its medicinal properties. It has been used to treat medical problems ranging from heart disease to arthritis. Not to be confused with the culinary basil found in most kitchens, holy basil is finding its way into some modern kitchens as well. In herbal medicine it is regarded as an adaptogen, which is a natural herb product that strengthens the body, helping it to fight stress and fatigue.

Stress Relief

• Holy basil has a long track record as a stress reliever. Studies conducted on mice indicate that it may affect cortisol levels, which in turn lowers blood sugar and also helps the body protect itself from stress. Most naturopaths that promote holy basil for stress relief recommend taking 400 to 500 mg in capsules once or twice each day with meals.

  Hindus in India use the holy basil in religious ceremonies and to help with spiritual meditation. It can be found inside or close to every home in India. Hindus have given holy basil the name "tulsi" which translates to "incomparable" in Sanskrit. This exemplifies the high regard in which they hold this plant.

Antiseptic

• Holy basil contains the compound eugenol which has antiseptic properties. For this reason, many homes place leaves and flowers from this plant into a bowl of water so that visitors can clean their hands prior to entering the home. It also has such a strong scent that it makes an ideal insecticide. The skin of those who have been treated with the holy basil water will be protected from mosquitos and other pests known to carry disease.

Ayurvedic Medicine

• One use of the holy basil plant in ayurvedic medicine is to treat skin conditions. A tonic is made by juicing the leaves of the holy basil. This can be mixed with lemon or other juice as desired before drinking to alter the strong taste of the holy basil. It is said to be useful in treating stomach ailments and can be mixed with ginger before administering for this reason. It is mixed with onion juice, lemon and honey to treat respiratory infections, earaches and fever. Ayurvedic practitioners also claim that holy basil can act as an antivenom in snake bite cases.