Holy basil, also known as Ocimum sanctum or tulsi, is a small perennial plant with hairy, pale leaves. The leaves of the holy basil plant have a strong aroma and an astringent taste. Their immense medicinal value was attested in the ancient Hindu scriptures. Holy basil is available in many forms: capsule, tablet, powder, teas and dried leaves. Although generally safe to use, the drug interactions, potential adverse effects and toxicology of holy basil have not been completely studied, and it should be used with caution.
Diabetes
Ethanol extracts of the leaves of holy basil stimulate the secretion of insulin from beta cells grown artificially in the laboratory. Holy basil extracts reduced plasma sugar levels and increased insulin production in diabetic rats, according to a study published in the April 2006 issue of the "Journal of Endocrinology." Conclusive, clinical trial-tested proof for these effects in humans is lacking, however, so holy basil cannot replace diabetic medications. It is best to talk to a doctor before taking holy basil for diabetes.
Mental Health
The results of a clinical trial published in the September 2008 issue of the "Nepal Medical College Journal" demonstrate that 500 mg capsules of holy basil extracts given twice daily for 2 months reduced stress and anxiety, overcame depression and enhanced attention in patients suffering from general anxiety disorder. No major side effects were identified. These results indicate that Ocimum sanctum extracts may be safer alternatives to benzodiazepines for treating stress-related disorders.
Antioxidant Activity
Drugs.com states that holy basil extracts may possess antioxidant properties, protecting cells from radiation-induced DNA damage. Protective effects have been demonstrated in laboratory animals. However, no clinical data proves similar effects in humans. Always talk to your doctor before using holy basil or any supplement for medicinal purposes.
Another study published in the September 2006 issue of "Current Science" reported that Ocimum sanctum extracts may protect heart tissue and cells from the damage caused by free oxygen radicals formed by various metabolic processes in the body.
Infections
According to a review article published in the April 2005 issue of the "Indian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology," holy basil leaf decoctions may shorten the course of illness and provide symptomatic relief to patients suffering from a variety of infections including common cold, viral hepatitis, and gastric infections caused by bacteria such as Escherichia coli. Fresh leaves of the plant along with pepper may help prevent malaria, while essential oils extracted from the plant may possess antibacterial, antifungal and antimycobacterial activity.
Eye Disease
Juice extracted from the leaves of holy basil is used to prepare Ayurvedic eye drops to treat glaucoma, cataract, chronic conjunctivitis and other eye diseases, says P. Prakash, author of a review article published in the "Indian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology." As noted earlier, these claims of efficacy have not been proved clinically. It is important to talk to a doctor before using holy basil for medicinal purposes.
References
- "Journal of Endocrinology"; Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extracts Stimulate Insulin Secretion from Perfused Pancreas, Isolated Islets and Clonal Pancreatic ß-cells; J. M. A. Hannan et al.; 2006
- "Nepal Medical College Journal"; Controlled Programmed Trial of Ocimum Sanctum Leaf on Generalized Anxiety Disorders; D. Bhattacharyya et al.; September 2008
- Drugs.com; Holy Basil
- "Current Science"; Myocardial Salvaging Effects of Ocimum Sanctum in Experimental Model of Myocardial Necrosis: A Haemodynamic, Biochemical and Histoarchitectural Assessment; D.S. Arya et al.; September 2006
- "Indian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology"; Therapeutic Uses of Ocimin Sanctum Linn (Tulsi) with a Note on Eugenol and Its Pharmacological Actions: A Short Review; P. Prakash & Neelu Gupta; April 2005
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