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Ocimum sanctum (Tulsi)
Sacred Ayurvedic adaptogen that helps the body manage stress, supports metabolic health, and promotes mental clarity.
What the evidence says
Most Holy Basil studies are mechanism or observational rather than RCTs that measure a clinical effect — keep findings provisional.
Most evidence is from high-quality meta-analyses and randomised trials published 2005–2026 with a typical study size of 35 participants.
Based on 30 studies · 1 meta-analysis · 5 RCTs · 566 total participants
Confidence
ModerateBy outcome
Holy Basil has an evidence score of 8.5/10 — very strong evidence based on 30 indexed studies. Sacred Ayurvedic adaptogen that helps the body manage stress, supports metabolic health, and promotes mental clarity.
The commonly studied dose of Holy Basil is 300-600mg extract (2.5% ursolic acid). Research points to an estimated optimal dose around 900mg, with a minimum effective dose near 300mg. Individual response varies — start low and adjust.
The best time to take Holy Basil is in the morning. Taking it with food is preferred. Holy basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum/sanctum), known as Tulsi, is a revered adaptogen in Ayurveda.
Rhodiola Rosea
Probably helpsFast-acting adaptogen that combats mental fatigue and improves cognitive performance under stress — works within days, not weeks.
Curcumin
Likely helpsTurmeric's active compound that modulates NF-kB inflammatory pathways — supports mood, joint health, and post-exercise recovery.
Last reviewed May 2026 · evidence from 38 studies · how we score
This information is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any supplement or medication.
Holy Basil, known as Tulsi in India, is considered the 'Queen of Herbs' in Ayurvedic medicine. As an adaptogen, it helps the body cope with stress while supporting cognitive function, blood sugar balance, and immune health. Rich in antioxidants and with a long history of traditional use, it's valued for promoting overall resilience.
Helps body adapt to stress
Rich in protective compounds
May help regulate blood sugar
How Holy Basil works — from molecular targets to health outcomes. Click an edge to see supporting research.This visualization is in beta — pathways are being refined and expanded.
300-600mg extract (2.5% ursolic acid)
Can be taken without food
| Form | Type |
|---|---|
| 💊Standardized extract (leaf) | Recommended |
| 💊Dried leaf capsules | Alternative |
| 🍵Tea | Alternative |
| 💧Tincture | Alternative |
Extracts are more concentrated. Tea is traditional and effective for milder effects.
Minimum: 4 weeks
Optimal: 8 weeks
Cycling: Traditional use suggests cycling. Try 6-8 weeks on, 2 weeks off.
Note: Can be taken any time. Morning dosing supports daytime stress management.
You can get holy basil from these foods and drinks. Doses are typical per-serving estimates — actual content varies by brand, brew, cooking, etc.
200 mg per cup
1 cup brewed from 1 tsp dried leaf. Supplement extracts are typically 300–600 mg.
Based on systematic review evidence of HPA-axis modulation and adaptogenic properties. However, reviewers note that effects on HPA-axis activity in humans remain unclear and require more definitive research. Conservative estimates due to limited human trial data.
Better ability to handle stress
Improved focus and cognitive function
Modest glucose regulation
Avoid — traditional contraindication
May affect fertility; use with caution
May have mild antiplatelet effects — may affect platelet aggregation or vitamin K-dependent clotting factors, altering anticoagulant efficacy
May enhance blood sugar lowering
May affect thyroid hormone levels
Tip: Take with food
Tip: Reduce dose
Holy Basil is generally well-tolerated and considered safe for most healthy adults at recommended doses. The most commonly reported side effects are GI upset, nausea. Use caution if any of these apply to you: Pregnancy (may have uterine effects).
Schisandra
Likely helpsFive-flavor adaptogenic berry with rare hepatoprotective properties — supports liver detoxification, mental clarity, and physical endurance.
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