What Are The Health Benefits of Holy Basil?

Did you know there’s a remarkable herb that helps with stress relief AND cognitive function AND immune support… all rolled into one? This herbal overachiever is none other than Holy Basil, also known as “Queen of Herbs” or “The Incomparable One.” Let’s get into a Holy Basil state of mind and explore this botanical power player. It’s so good you might want to add it to your supplement pantry, pronto!

What is Holy Basil?

Also known as “Tulsi,” Holy Basil is a member of the mint or Lamiaceae family. It is a square-stemmed herb that loves hot temperatures. Originally from India, it now grows all over the world. New Chapter sources Holy Basil from India, where it grows best. Holy Basil is a small shrub that grows to be about 1-2 feet tall. It gets the name “holy” due to cherished associations with Hindu divinity. Many homes in India have a Holy Basil plant growing in a place of honor in the front courtyard or near the front door. It has been part of the fabric of life and culture in India and other parts of Asia since ancient times! A Holy Basil plant is like a precious piece of history that we can appreciate (and benefit from) to this day.

Is Holy Basil Different Than Basil?

There are about 60 types of Basil overall—Holy Basil ( Ocimum sanctum) is one of these types. You can grow Holy Basil in your garden , particularly in hotter climates, and harvest the leaves throughout the summer. Other kinds of Basil include Sweet Basil ( Ocimum basilicum), Lime Basil, Lemon Basil, and Thai Basil. When it comes to Holy Basil vs Basil, the former is no ordinary pesto ingredient. Holy Basil is prized for containing plant compounds that include eugenol, ursolic acid, oleanolic acid, and rosmarinic acid. The basil used in cooking is usually sweet basil, also known as Great Basil or Genovese Basil.

History of Holy Basil

Certain plants are so beneficial that they’ve been revered by humankind for thousands of years. These herbs stand the test of time as true allies for wellness and longevity. Holy Basil or Tulsi is one of these important herbs. Considered sacred by Hindu practitioners, Tulsi is known as “The Incomparable One,” “Elixir of Life,” and “The Mother Medicine of Nature.” Holy Basil is a principal herb in the Ayurvedic system and is also used in the Siddha and Unani systems. It is thought to protect and balance the body, mind, and spirit. Tulsi is believed to open the heart and mind and bestow love, compassion, faith, and devotion. The oil of Tulsi is thought to tone up the Chakras or energy points.