SupplementEmergingAdaptogen
Holy Basil (Tulsi)
Also known as Holy Basil
Half-life
~2–3 hours
What is Holy Basil (Tulsi)?
Sacred Indian herb with adaptogenic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-diabetic properties.
How Holy Basil (Tulsi) works
Eugenol inhibits COX enzymes reducing inflammation. Triterpene ursolic acid activates PPAR-alpha for fat metabolism and insulin sensitization. Corticosteroid-modulating effects explain adaptogenic cortisol action.
Benefits & uses
- Stress reduction
- Mood support
- Blood-sugar support
- Antioxidant
Common uses: Cortisol reduction, blood glucose regulation, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, cognitive support.
Recovery
Holy Basil (Tulsi) dosage
- Typical dose
- 300–600 mg standardized extract or 500 mg–1 g dried herb leaf daily.
Holy Basil (Tulsi) half-life
~2–3 hours (eugenol and ursolic acid in plasma)
Holy Basil (Tulsi) side effects
Generally very safe. May reduce fertility (traditional evidence). Mild blood thinning.
- May affect fertility — avoid if trying to conceive
- Mild anticoagulant effect
- May lower blood sugar — monitor in diabetes
- Generally well tolerated
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