Ocimum sanctum, also called holy basil and tulsi, is an herb used in traditional Indian medicine. The herb has been used traditionally to treat a number of conditions, including asthma, cancer, vomiting, fever, arthritis and insect bites, according to a 2005 article in the "Indian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology." Researchers have conducted a number of scientific studies into the properties and potential of this herb.
Acne
Common acne is caused by the bacteria Propionibacterium acnes. In a 2006 study published in the "International Journal of Cosmetic Science," researchers reported the results of a study using basil oils in a laboratory setting. They found that holy basil oil was effective against the bacteria, and may be suitable for use in skin care preparations to treat or prevent acne.
Nerve Pain
In animal studies, holy basil has shown the potential to reduce nerve pain or neuropathy. In January 2010, researchers published the results of a study wherein they had induced peripheral neuropathy in rats. In the article, published in the "Journal of Brachial Plexus and Peripheral Nerve Injury," researchers reported that holy basil was able to significantly reduce nerve pain. Researchers theorize that holy basil has the potential to relieve chemotherapy-induced neuropathy as well.
Diabetes
Holy basil has the capacity to lower blood sugar, and is deserving of further study, according to a 2005 article in the "Journal of Family Practice." Researchers reviewed a number of studies of herbs and herbal formulas said to treat diabetes mellitus. They found evidence that holy basil was able to lower blood sugar levels. Control of blood sugar levels is crucial for preventing diabetes-related complications.
Ulcers
Holy basil exhibited anti-ulcer activity in animal models in laboratory studies, as well shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties. In an article published in the April 1999 issue of the "Journal of Ethnopharmacology," researchers found that not only did holy basil have anti-ulcer activity, it also inhibited gastric secretions and was able to reduce ulcers caused by aspirin. Researchers called holy basil oil a "drug of natural origin."
References
- "Indian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology;" Therapeutic Uses of Ocimum Sanctum Linn (Tulsi) with a Note on Eugenol and its Pharmacological Actions: a Short Review; P. Prakash and N. Gupta; April 2005
- "International Journal of Cosmetic Science;" Evaluation of In Vitro Antimicrobial Activity of Thai Basil Oils and Their Micro-Emulsion Formulas Against Propionibacterium Acnes; J. Viyoch, et al.; April 2006
- "Journal of Brachial Plexus and Peripheral Nerve Injury;" Exploring the Potential Effect of Ocimum Sanctum in Vincristine-Induced Neuropathic Pain in Rats; G. Kaur, et al.; January 2010
- "Journal of Family Practice;" Are Ayurvedic Herbs for Diabetes Effective?; P. G. Shekelle, et al.; October 2005
- "Journal of Ethnopharmacology;" Evaluation of the Gastric Antiulcer Activity of Fixed oil of Ocimum Sanctum (Holy Basil); April 1999
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