Holy basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum or Ocimum sanctum) is an aromatic shrub in the Lamiaceae basil plant family. It’s thought to have originated in north central India and now grows throughout the Eastern world.
Holy basil, otherwise known as tulsi, is known for its therapeutic power when it comes to maintaining homeostasis and fighting the effects of stress.
The tulsi plant has a rich history dating back 3,000 years ago to ancient India. It’s long been considered an “adaptogen” and medicinal, sacred herb in Ayurvedic medicine.
Historically, it was used as medicine and still is today due to its anti-stress effects that promote balance throughout the entire body (including in the immune, reproductive, central nervous and cardiovascular systems).
Today, tulsi is commonly consumed in supplement form or as holy basil tea, which is considered one of the top healthy drinks. Research tells us that holy basil benefits include naturally decreasing anxiety and adrenal fatigue/dysfunction, as well as decreasing symptoms caused by hypothyroidism, unbalanced blood sugar, acne and more.