Holy basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum) isnâ??t like the sweet basil in your momâ??s marinara sauce or the Thai herb you use to flavor a steaming bowl of pho. This green leafy plant, also known as Ocimum sanctum L. and tulsi, is native to Southeast Asia. It has a history within Indian medicine as a treatment for many conditions, from eye diseases to ringworms.
From the leaves to the seed, holy basil is considered a tonic for the body, mind, and spirit. Different parts of the plant are recommended for different conditions, such as:
fresh flowers for bronchitis,
leaves and seeds, with black pepper, for malaria,
whole plant for diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting,
pills and ointments for eczema,
alcohol extract for stomach ulcers and eye diseases and
oil for insect bites.
Many studies support the use of holy basil for human use and its therapeutic value. The nutritional value is also high as it contains:
vitamin A and C,
calcium,
zinc,
iron and
chlorophyll.
Always talk to your doctor before taking supplements. Like many supplements, holy basil is not approved as a first-line treatment. It may also interact with medications youâ??re already taking.
Holy basil is called the â??Queen of Herbs.â?�
