Revered for its healing properties, holy basil can be used for a variety of medicinal concerns. It can be used to reduce blood sugar levels when they are elevated or high. It can be used for diabetes but should be used under the direction of a medical professional. This plant is related to the sweet basil plant but it is not used in cooking or as a spice. Holy basil is also a strongly aromatic plant and can have small purple, white, or purple-red flowers. The only part of the plant that is used is the leaves, which are also known as the aerial parts. The leaves are used because they are potent and can be used dry or fresh. Once the leaves are collected, they can be used to make a dry powder, be juiced, or in a decoction. Holy basil should not be used if trying to conceive or if the user is pregnant.
History & Folklore
Holy basil is also native to India, just like Sweet basil, but it is not used in cooking in Western cuisine. But as the name suggests, this basil is sacred and is known to be the plant of the goddess Lakshmi. Holy basil is associated with preserving life since the goddess Lakshmi is married to Vishnu, the god who preserves life. It is also used in Indian medicine to help relieve a variety of issues. These medical conditions include bronchitis, asthma, stress, fevers, and mouth ulcers.
Habitat & Cultivation
Native to India, this plant is also found in the more tropical regions of Asia. It can also be found today in Central America and South America, where it is grown for medicinal purposes. Holy basil is usually grown from seed and can be grown as a potted plant. For herbal uses, it is picked in the early summer, before the flower has had the chance to blossom and open up. The plant does well in different soil types but it cannot survive in over-watered conditions.
Uses
Traditional Remedies this herb has been used in different cultures for the use of uplifting and invigorating the user. It is believed to improve the vitality of a person and is usually used as a tonic.
Ayurvedic Remedies it is usually used for treating fevers. It is used in a mixture that helps break the fever and supports the prevention of infection.
Stress and Heart Concerns can be applied topically when a user is stressed or has high blood pressure. It has also been used for centuries to help the body with new situations and stress.
Respiratory Issues is appropriate to use for mild conditions such as colds, asthma, and coughing. It should be applied topically to the lung area.
Self Care can be used for mild skin conditions such as acne or bruising. It can also be used for bug bites and any itching that occurs after being bitten.
Parts used
Aerial parts
Key Actions
Antispasmodic
Analgesic
Lowers blood-sugar levels
Reduces fever
Adaptogenic
Anti-inflammatory
Constituents
Volatile oil
Flavonoids
Triterpene
Polyphenols
Saponins
References
- Chevallier, Andrew, FNIMH; Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine - 550 Herbs and Remedies for Common Ailments; 3. Edition 2016; ISBN: 978-0-2412-2944-6; Page 116.
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