Holy basil, also known as The Queen, Tulsi, Tulasi and Ocimum Sanctum, has been used in Ayurvedic herbal medicine for thousands of years for a wide variety of ailments, according to an article published online by "Health News." Long considered a rejuvenating herb, it is often used as a cardinal herb in Ayurvedic, Indian or Eastern medicine, according to an article published on line by "Organic India." Purportedly used for everything from regulating and modulating the immune system to treating ulcers, to treating fevers, it is not hard to see why holy basil has gained world popularity as a powerful herb to treat various ailments.
Uses
Holy basil uses are diverse, and include religious, medicinal and culinary utilization of this popular herb. Purportedly, it is used to treat cardiac, respiratory, skin, immune, digestive, hepatic, or liver systems, as well as stress. It is also purportedly used to treat arthritis, fevers, seizures, indigestion and to sharpen memory, according to an online article by Steven Maimes, published by Salam Research in Rochester, New Hampshire.
Cardiac Uses
According to Maimes' article on "Holy Basil.com," of particular interest is the effect that holy basil has on the cardiac system, as it has been reported that holy basil decreases cholesterol, protects the heart muscle and blood vessels and even is said to thin the blood to prevent strokes. It has also been reportedly used to treat stress-related high blood pressure by decreasing adrenaline levels in the body.
Availability
Maimes says holy basil has a strong fragrance and comes in a variety of flavors including licorice, lemon, clove and peppermint. It is primarily grown in India, Australia, Malaysia, West Asia, Central America and South America. It is easy to obtain and has no limitations for use in the United States. Available fresh in grocery stores and farmer's markets across the United States, holy basil is also available in liquid extract form and capsule form, according to "Health News."
Medical Research
Maimes writes that much research has been done on holy basil and many other herbal Ayurvedic medicinals over the past 5,000 years and that it has been used by Hindu culture. However, most have been done in India, involved animal research and has not been replicated in the United States. Therefore, though much research has already been done, more double blind medical research studies need to be done to clearly ascertain the efficacy and safety of this seemingly potent herb.
Warning
Maimes also says there are several side effects that may occur with ingestion of holy basil. Holy basil has the potential to increase appetite, prevent fertility by decreasing estrogen in women and sperm in men. It may also cause bleeding, decrease blood sugar, and also may decrease the hypoglycemic effects of insulin in diabetics. For these reasons, holy basil should be avoided by diabetics, people who are prone to bleeding as well as during pregnancy or when trying to get pregnant.
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