Holy Basil (Tulsi)
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Holy Basil (Tulsi). Ayurvedic adaptogen with anti-stress, anti-inflammatory, and glycemic effects.
How it works. Eugenol and ursolic acid modulate cortisol and COX-2.
What the research supports. 2 graded claims. Strongest: Reduces stress symptoms (moderate).
How much to take. Typical dose: 300–600 mg standardized extract.
Side effects and interactions. 2 medication interactions listed. Serious: Discontinue and seek medical advice if symptoms are severe, persistent, or include difficulty breathing.
Stacking. Pairs well with Ashwagandha, L-theanine.
Forms. 1 forms. Pick one to open its profile.
Key studies. 9 studies cited. The strongest are listed with links to PubMed.
Community. Experiences from people who have tried Holy Basil (Tulsi). Anecdotes are not medical advice.
Holy Basil (Tulsi). Ayurvedic adaptogen with anti-stress, anti-inflammatory, and glycemic effects.
What it is
Ayurvedic adaptogen with anti-stress, anti-inflammatory, and glycemic effects.
Also called
Food sources
Goals
How it works
Eugenol and ursolic acid modulate cortisol and COX-2.
Pathways
- HPA modulation
- Anti-inflammatory
Effects
- ↓Cortisol & subjective stress decreases
- ↓Fasting glucose decreases
What the research supports
Strong: consistent results across large trials or meta-analyses. Moderate: several trials, mostly positive. Limited: small or mixed studies. Preclinical: animal or cell research only.
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Side effects & interactions
Common side effects
- Holy Basil (Tulsi) is generally well-tolerated at evidence-based doses
- Mild GI discomfort (nausea, loose stools, or bloating) possible at higher intakes
- Headache or transient fatigue reported by a small fraction of users
Serious
- Discontinue and seek medical advice if symptoms are severe, persistent, or include difficulty breathing
Medication interactions
Additive hypoglycemia.
Mild platelet effects.
Check any supplement–medication combination with your pharmacist before starting.
Combines with
Pairs well
- AshwagandhaAdaptogenic HPA-axis modulation.
- L-theaninePromotes calm focus without sedation.
Forms
Key studies
9 studies cited in total.
Opens current human and preclinical literature matching Holy Basil (Tulsi) and "Reduces stress symptoms". Filter by RCT, meta-analysis, or year on the results page.
Opens current human and preclinical literature matching Holy Basil (Tulsi) and "Improves fasting glucose modestly". Filter by RCT, meta-analysis, or year on the results page.
Opens current human and preclinical literature matching Holy Basil (Tulsi) and "randomized controlled trial". Filter by RCT, meta-analysis, or year on the results page.
Discussion
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