Dosage
Intervention: 5 to 10 drops per day.
Treatment: 10–15 drops, 3 times per day max.

Directions for use
Shake before using. Take directly on the tongue or in half a glass of water or tea, 15 to 30 minutes before meals. For long-term treatment, use 6 days out of 7.

Mode of Action
As an adaptogen, holy basil increases the organism’s resilience and helps it adapt to the stress of day-to-day life. It keeps corticosterone levels low and reduces the harmful effects of stress such as memory loss, sleep disturbances, headaches, sexual dysfunction, and irritable bowel syndrome. Holy basil increases energy and vitality while reducing anxiety, fatigue, and symptoms of mild depression. It improves memory and cognitive functions and protects against memory loss due to aging. Ocimum sanctum has a calming effect that promotes clarity of mind and opens the individual to relaxation and calm. It brings a feeling of well-being and joy. In Ayurvedic medicine, it is considered a rasayana and has the capacity to penetrate deep into the tissues in order to normalize Kapha and Vata.

  As a warming digestive tonic, holy basil soothes gas, spasms, colic, bloating, and nausea. It reduces stomach acid and increases production of the protective mucus of the stomach. Holy basil activates certain liver functions such as the cytochrome P450 cycle, which neutralizes toxic chemical compounds so that they can be safely eliminated. It also kills parasites. The warm infusion of holy basil is expectorant, decongestant, and antispasmodic. It helps eliminate excess Kapha from the lungs. It is used in the treatment of bronchitis and allergic rhinitis. It is an immune modulator, a diaphoretic, and reduces fever, and is therefore useful when there is infection. Holy basil is a bronchodilator and helps reduce the symptoms of asthma. Ocimum sanctum is antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal. It fights Streptococcus mutans, a micro-organism responsible for tooth decay, and is used as a mouthwash to treat bad breath, gum diseases, and mouth sores.

As an antioxidant, holy basil protects cells against free radicals and radiation. The eugenol and linoleic acid that it contains contribute to its anti-inflammatory action. Holy basil contains essential oils (eugenol, carvacrol, linalool), triterpenes (ursolic acid), flavonoids (orientin, vicenin, apigenin), rosmarinic acid, phytosterols (β-sitosterol), carnosic acid, and vitamins (A, B).

Helpful Associations

Ashwagandha  (available at Blissdorf)
A classic rejuvenating adaptogen for exhaustion, burnout, and intense stress. Ashwagandha helps calm the nervous system, restore vitality, balance cortisol, and rebuild deep inner strength.

Jiaogulan Extract (available at Blissdorf)
A powerful antioxidant and adaptogen known as the “Herb of Immortality.” Jiaogulan supports cellular protection, increases resilience to oxidative stress, and promotes balanced energy and longevity.

Chaga (available at Blissdorf)
One of nature’s strongest antioxidant allies. Chaga helps the body counter oxidative stress, strengthens immunity, and acts as a grounding adaptogen for long-term vitality.

Reishi (available at Blissdorf)
The “Mushroom of Immortality,” supporting a weakened immune system, seasonal allergies, and stress-related imbalance. Reishi calms the spirit, nourishes the lungs, and promotes deep, restorative harmony.

History
Ayurvedic medicine considers holy basil the Queen of All Herbs and a vital elixir of life, valued for its medicinal and spiritual virtues. Better known as Tulsi, it helps develop consciousness, supports meditation, and promotes compassion. Cultivated near temples and homes, it is known to purify the air and sanctify its surroundings. It is a sacred herb used in the Ayurvedic tradition to balance the chakras and to bring joy. Traditionally, holy basil was used in India for bronchial troubles, stomach aches, and fever caused by malaria. In Thailand, it was used to treat digestive troubles such as gas, intestinal cramps, and for colds and flu.

Contraindications 

None known.

Interactions
None known.