What is Holy Basil?
Holy Basil is an aromatic herb commonly known as Tulsi. Its accepted botanical name is Ocimum tenuiflorum, while Ocimum sanctum is an older botanical synonym that still appears on many supplement labels.
Is Tulsi the same as Holy Basil?
Yes. Tulsi is a common name for Holy Basil. You may see Holy Basil, Tulsi, Ocimum tenuiflorum or Ocimum sanctum used on product labels.
What are the benefits of Holy Basil?
Benefits depend on the individual product. Certain licensed Canadian Holy Basil supplements are authorized as adaptogens to help increase energy and resistance to stress related to mental and physical fatigue, and some products also carry antioxidant or traditional Ayurvedic uses. Always check the individual product’s NPN.
What is an adaptogen?
“Adaptogen” is a term used in herbal medicine for certain substances traditionally used to help increase resistance to physical or mental stress. Holy Basil is used as an adaptogenic ingredient in some licensed Canadian natural health products.
Does Holy Basil help with stress?
Some licensed Holy Basil products in Canada are authorized as adaptogens to help increase energy and resistance to stress in cases of mental or physical fatigue related to stress. That does not mean every Holy Basil tea, capsule or extract has the same authorized use.
What is the best time to take Holy Basil?
There is no universal best time for every Holy Basil supplement. Dosage and timing depend on the formulation, so follow the directions on the individual product rather than applying another brand’s instructions.
Is Holy Basil tea the same as a Holy Basil supplement?
They contain the same botanical ingredient in some cases, but they are different product formats. Tea typically uses infused Holy Basil leaf, while supplements may contain measured amounts of dried herb or concentrated extracts. Compare the individual product rather than assuming equivalent amounts.
Is Holy Basil better than Ashwagandha?
Neither is universally better. Holy Basil and Ashwagandha are different herbs with different formulations and authorized uses. The better choice depends on the individual product and why you are considering it.
Can Holy Basil interact with medications?
Some Holy Basil products carry cautions for people taking medications, particularly medications affecting blood pressure or blood glucose. Health Canada also identifies Ocimum tenuiflorum among ingredients with potential blood-pressure-lowering and glucose-modifying effects in its combination guidance.
Can you take Holy Basil every day?
Some Holy Basil supplements are labelled for daily use, but dosage and cautions vary between products. Follow the individual product directions. Certain products also advise professional guidance during breastfeeding, pregnancy or when using specific medications.