Holy basil is an ancient component of Ayurveda, a traditional system of medicine originating in India. Traditionally, holy basil has been used as a treatment for dozens of conditions, including diabetes, asthma, stress, colds, flu, headaches, diabetes and cancer. In modern Western naturopathy, holy basil is still used as a complementary treatment for several conditions. The Karmanos Cancer Institute notes that holy basil is generally associated with no side effects. However, in theory, it may cause several possible adverse reactions.
Infertility
According to Maimonides Medical Center, holy basil causes infertility in animal models. Although this effect has not been demonstrated in humans, it is prudent for people to avoid holy basil supplements while trying to conceive.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Maimonides Medical Center notes that studies have not evaluated the safety of holy basil for pregnant women. According to PeaceHealth.org, large doses of basil plants may stimulate contractions of the uterus. Traditional Ayurvedic practitioners regard holy basil as a safe herb for expectant mothers, but it is best avoided until further studies have evaluated its safety. Holy basil may pass into breast milk.
Blood Sugar
As a traditional treatment for diabetes, holy basil may trigger a decrease in blood sugar levels. Like all herbs that affect blood sugar, it should be used cautiously---and only under a physician's supervision---by people with type 2 diabetes.
Drug Interactions
Hundreds of medicinal herbs can cause dangerous side effects when combined with anticoagulant (blood-thinning) drugs like warfarin. In theory, holy basil may increase the risk of a hemorrhagic event in people taking these drugs. AskAHealer.com advises patients to avoid combining holy basil with anticoagulants, but no clinical trials confirm this theoretical risk.
Liver and Kidney Health
PeaceHealth.org advises patients with liver and kidney disease to use common basil---a relative of holy basil---cautiously. People with these conditions may have difficulty excreting its constituent compounds from the body. AskAHealer.com advises patients to avoid taking holy basil with acetominopehn (Tylenol) because of the possible risk of liver damage. However, holy basil may actually help to protect and restore the health of the kidneys and liver. More studies are needed to confirm the potential benefits and risks.
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