Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum or Ocimum tenuiflorum), also known as Tulsi, has a long history of use in Ayurvedic medicine as an adaptogen—a substance believed to help the body adapt to stress and support overall vitality. Scientific research, though still in early stages, provides some support for its use in supporting the adrenal glands and the body's response to stress. Preclinical studies and a limited number of human clinical trials suggest that Holy Basil may help lower stress hormone levels (such as cortisol), reduce anxiety, and improve markers of stress tolerance. For example, a 2017 review in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine highlighted several small clinical trials where Tulsi supplementation led to improvements in stress, anxiety, and mood. Mechanistically, Holy Basil's adaptogenic effects are thought to be linked to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory constituents, which may help modulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis—the body's central stress response system, which includes the adrenal glands. However, the quality and scale of clinical evidence remain limited, with most studies being small, short-term, or lacking rigorous controls. Therefore, while there is some scientific basis for using Holy Basil to support the adrenal glands and stress response, more robust human studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness.

More about Holy Basil Herb
More about Adrenal Glands

Other ingredients that support Adrenal Glands

Other body systems supported by Holy Basil Herb

Products containing Holy Basil Herb