Holy Basil
Ocimum tenuiflorum
Ocimum tenuiflorum, commonly known as holy basil or tulsi, is a traditional plant in Ayurvedic medicine and other Indian herbal practices. Traditionally, it has been used for various purposes including respiratory health, stress relief, and general well-being, though no specific recorded uses pertain to the exact species O. tenuiflorum. Scientific evidence suggests that Ocimum tenuiflorum may have potential benefits in managing hypertension through its ability to suppress ACE activity when consumed as a fermented beverage for six weeks. Additionally, studies indicate that AgNPs (silver nanoparticles) at 60 ppm can significantly increase the content of eugenol and rosmarinic acid while enhancing gene expression in O. tenuiflorum. Furthermore, CuS/oxalic acid-modified Ocimum tenuiflorum biosorbents show high methylene blue adsorption efficiency under alkaline conditions, highlighting its potential for environmental applications. Safety profiles of Ocimum tenuiflorum appear to be favorable with no major issues recorded. There are also no reported drug interactions associated with this plant, suggesting it is generally well-tolerated and safe for use in traditional practices.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- The study found that administration of Ocimum tenuiflorum fermented beverage for six weeks led to partial restoration of parameters affected by renovascular hypertension, involving suppression of ACE activity.
- AgNPs at 60 ppm significantly increased eugenol and rosmarinic acid content and associated gene expression in O. tenuiflorum.
- Both Ocimum species accumulated Cd in roots, with O. basilicum showing slightly higher uptake but better physiological preservation under stress.
- A CuS/oxalic acid-modified Ocimum tenuiflorum biosorbent achieved up to 94.73% methylene blue removal under optimal conditions.
Frequently asked questions
What is Holy Basil?
Holy Basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Holy Basil?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Holy Basil; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The study found that administration of Ocimum tenuiflorum fermented beverage for six weeks led to partial restoration of parameters affected by renovascular hypertension, involving suppression of ACE activity.
How strong is the evidence for Holy Basil?
The strongest finding for Holy Basil carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Holy Basil safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Holy Basil in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Holy Basil interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Holy Basil in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Holy Basil?
Holy Basil is also known as: Туласи, Basilic sacré.
Is Holy Basil a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Green synthesis of CuS/oxalic acid modified Ocimum tenuiflorum biosorbent for high-capacity adsorption of methylene blue. literature abstract metadata
- T2 AgNPs-induced nanoelicitation: enhancing Eugenol, Rosmarinic Acid, antioxidant defense and gene expression in Ocimum tenuiflorum. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Fermented beverage of Ocimum tenuiflorum ameliorates renovascular hypertension by the inhibition of ACE activity in 2K1C rat model. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Integrative assessment of cadmium stress adaptation in Ocimum spp.: Linking biochemical defense, anatomical plasticity, and essential oil biosynthesis. literature abstract metadata