Stressed out?

Feeling old?

Holy Basil helps your immune system to help you!

Research recently presented at the British Pharmaceutical Conference found that holy basil extract was effective at searching for and eliminating harmful molecules and protecting against damage caused by free radicals in organs.

The researchers, led by Dr Vaibhav Shinde from Poona College of Pharmacy, Maharashtra, India, studied the herb for anti-oxidant and anti-ageing properties. Dr Shinde said: “The study validates the traditional use of herb as a youth-promoting substance in the Ayurvedic system of medicine. It also helps describe how the herb acts at a cellular level.”

Holy basil (Ocimum sanctum), also known as Tulsi, is a native of India, and its extract used in Ayurvedic medicine as a rejuvenation drug, promoting a youthful state of health. Tulsi is called the Queen of Herbs, and is considered an adaptogen, meaning it is effective in supporting the immune system while also relieving the body’s negative reactions to stress.

Tulsi is traditionally grown in an earthenware pot in family homes and gardens in India, sometimes in its own structure and accompanied by pictures of dieties. The plant is regarded as a consort of Vishnu and an avatar of Lakshmi. Tulsi has been used to treat fevers and common colds, headaches, malaria, diabetes, stomach disorders, inflammation, heart disease, eye disorders, bronchitis, asthma, and arthritis.

Although the study refers to holy basil extract, drinking the tea daily can also help to reduce stress. Organic India has a great line of organic holy basil teas in 18 different flavors, and tastes great hot or iced. Many health food stores and food co-ops also have the herb available in bulk, letting you create your own blends.

Enjoy holy basil and lose the stress.

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Image: lakshmi.prabhala at Flickr under a Creative Commons License