Tulsi is the Ayurvedic name for the herb Ocimum sanctum, also known as holy basil. Tulsi is an important herb in the traditional herbal medicine of India, where it holds spiritual as well as medicinal significance. Some people make meditation beads from the plant's cut stems. Tulsi provides purported benefits for colds and flu, digestive disorders and also for adrenal health.
For Children
Tulsi is safe for children's use, says registered dietitian Judy Converse, author of the book "Special-Needs Kids Eat Right: Strategies to Help Kids on the Autism Spectrum Focus, Learn and Thrive." Due to their heightened response to environmental stimuli, autistic children are particularly susceptible to adrenal fatigue, says Converse. Other herbs considered safe for supporting adrenal health in children include licorice, ashwagandha and rhodiola rosea. Use these herbs singly, at first, to gauge your child's response, before combining them. Consult a doctor trained in the use of herbs for guidance and supervision when using tulsi.
For Stress
Post-traumatic stress disorder, a condition characterized by high levels of stress that lead to adrenal fatigue, anxiety and depression, may respond well to treatment with tulsi, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. A daily dose of 400 mg helps restore adrenal health and resilience. Tulsi tea, made from the powdered root, is also an option, though it will not provide you with a standardized dose.
As an Adaptogen
Herbalists classify tulsi as an adaptogen, an herb that has the ability to increase your resistance to stress by either stimulating your system or calming it, as needed. When you take tulsi, you might find yourself taking fewer naps during the day, says pharmacist and naturopath James B. LaValle, author of the book "Cracking the Metabolic Code: 9 Keys to Optimal Health." A greater sense of calm and fewer carbohydrate cravings indicate that the herb is supporting your adrenal function by stabilizing your blood sugar levels. LaValle recommends doses of 400 to 800 mg one to two times per day of a standardized extract containing 1 percent ursolic acid, tulsi's active ingredient. Consult your doctor for appropriate dosage recommendations for your needs.
As an Antioxidant
Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects contribute to tulsi's stress-reducing properties, according to Deepak Chopra, in his book "The Chopra Center Herbal Handbook: Forty Natural Prescriptions for Perfect Health." By keeping your body chemistry on an even keel, tulsi prevents adrenal stress. In your brain, tulsi acts like an antidepressant and helps dampen the effects of environmental stressors, such as excessive noise. Tulsi may also increase your body's resilience to the damaging effects of radiation and chemotherapy drugs, though most studies have been done on animals, and human trials are needed to confirm these results.
References
- "The Chopra Center Herbal Handbook: Forty Natural Prescriptions for Perfect Health"; Deepak Chopra; 2000
- University Of Maryland Medical Center: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
- "Cracking the Metabolic Code: 9 Keys to Optimal Health"; James B. LaValle; 2004
- "Special-Needs Kids Eat Right: Strategies to Help Kids on the Autism Spectrum"; Judy Converse; 2009
