Holy Basil (Tulsi)
Commonly used for
Stress
Where to Buy
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The cheapest product is usually low quality, but more expensive doesn’t always mean better.
What is it? / Overview
Holy basil is a traditional adaptogen; extracts inhibit cortisol release and antagonize CRF1 receptors, dampening HPA-axis stress responses, alongside antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects -- most of the strongest mechanistic data comes from animal models, with smaller human trials reporting symptom improvement.
How is it used? / Administration
Form: Ocimum tenuiflorum (O. sanctum) leaf extract, standardized (e.g. Holixer)
Typical dose studied: ~300-600 mg/day extract, often in divided doses
Timing: Daily, often divided
Traditional antifertility signals seen in animal studies are the reason for the pregnancy caution -- worth noting for anyone trying to conceive, not just currently pregnant.
How well does it work? / Evidence
? Emerging / limited evidence
Who should avoid it?
Avoid with: Type 2 diabetes mellitus; Bleeding disorder / Coagulopathy; Hypothyroidism / Hashimoto's thyroiditis; Breastfeeding
Interacts with: Antidiabetic agents -- additive hypoglycemia risk; Anticoagulants, antiplatelets -- theoretical additive bleeding risk (mild antiplatelet effect)
Already taking it? Reasonable, generally well-tolerated adaptogen to continue -- most supporting human trials are small, so treat the stress-reduction benefit as promising rather than settled.
Research & references
C M MG et al. (2023). Ocimum Tenuiflorum Extract (HOLIXER): Possible Effects on Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) Axis in Modulating Stress. PLoS One.
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