Holy basil may help lower your blood pressure if it’s high due to stress or anxiety. [3] X Expert Source Tracy Zollinger Dipl. OM, L. Ac. , FABORMLicensed Herbalist & Acupuncturist Expert Interview. 6 October 2020. Holy basil may also stabilize your cortisol levels, an adrenal hormone that can cause chronic stress and agitation, and temporarily boost your mental cognition. [4] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
Holy basil may also treat cystic acne when taken over long periods of time. [6] X Research source
In addition to its oral benefits, holy basil may freshen your breath as well. Holy basil may also help prevent oral cancer caused by chewing tobacco, according to certain studies. [9] X Research source
High blood sugar Flu and the common cold Certain types of cancers Strokes Radiation poisoning
You can find holy basil tea (sometimes labeled as Tulsi tea) in many alternative health stores. You can also steep holy basil leaves in water yourself if you’d prefer. [12] X Expert Source Tracy Zollinger Dipl. OM, L. Ac. , FABORMLicensed Herbalist & Acupuncturist Expert Interview. 6 October 2020.
Because of their potency and relaxing supplements, holy basil capsules can be used as natural sleep supplements. [13] X Research source Never take more than the package’s recommended dosage at a time.
You can also rub holy basil extract against the skin to relieve skin irritation or inflammation. Using an extract is an ideal way to take holy basil if you don’t want to take a capsule but dislike the herb’s distinct taste.
Taking holy basil by tea or soup generally causes the least side effects because it is taken at a lower dose.
In Ayurvedic traditions, chewing holy basil is traditionally a form of desecration.
Do not take holy basil alongside anticonvulsants, sedatives, or blood clot medications, as these can exacerbate holy basil’s side effects. High holy basil doses may cause low sperm counts and infertility in men. [19] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
Do not take concentrated holy basil capsules or extracts while pregnant. Holy basil’s side effects in expecting women have not been studied and may cause birth defects. [21] X Research source Consult a naturopathic doctor to decide whether holy basil would be the best supplement to your prescription medications.
Talk with your doctor before taking holy basil again following a surgery. Don’t take holy basil if you’re trying to conceive, as it can temporarily decrease fertility. [23] X Expert Source Tracy Zollinger Dipl. OM, L. Ac. , FABORMLicensed Herbalist & Acupuncturist Expert Interview. 6 October 2020.
