The holy plant that combats stress, insomnia, and weight loss. Research shows that certain plants can help reduce stress levels. Herbs can help create a calm and relaxing atmosphere. These plants can enhance oxygen production and help reduce carbon dioxide levels in the air, which can have a calming effect on the nervous system.
The plant that significantly reduces stress levels and can combat insomnia
According to doctors, tea made from this plant starts to work in just 40 minutes. Holy basil, also known as tulsi, is an ancient plant. Although this plant belongs to the same family as the basil you use in tomato sauce or caprese salad, holy basil is not a culinary herb.
It is traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine, according to nutritionist Breanna Guan.
Health benefits of holy basil
Holy basil belongs to a category of substances known as adaptogens. As the name suggests, adaptogens help the body adapt and cope with physical, emotional, and environmental stressors.
Stress can be physically toxic, raising cortisol levels and causing inflammation in the body, says Guan. Holy basil helps reduce cortisol levels and has a calming and relaxing effect on the body.
Studies show that consuming a cup of holy basil tea can reduce cortisol levels by 50% within 40 minutes. Ursolic acid in tulsi increases the level of a chemical that calms the brain, reducing spikes in cortisol. When taken regularly, holy basil has long-term effects on anxiety.
While holy basil is the best natural remedy for anxiety, the plant can do more. A series of studies have reported tulsi’s benefits on cardiovascular risk factors, blood sugar control, anti-inflammatory effects, and anti-cancer properties, says Dr. Mark Cohen.
Holy basil helps you lose weight
Holy basil can help you lose weight. A study published in the Indian Journal of Clinical Biochemistry found that individuals who took 250 mg of holy basil twice a day lost more than 1 kg in 8 weeks without any changes to their diet or physical activity.
It also improves cholesterol levels and insulin resistance. It can help balance blood sugar levels and assist with other symptoms of metabolic syndrome, explains Dr. Cohen.
All of these can help you maintain a healthy weight. Holy basil accelerates hair growth and reduces gray hair. To stimulate hair growth, simply add 5 drops of holy basil essential oil to a bottle of water and spray it on your scalp once a day. Holy basil stimulates hair growth as effectively as topical medications.
Additionally, it activates the enzyme catalase, which breaks down hydrogen peroxide into water, delaying hair loss. The anti-inflammatory effects of eugenol found in holy basil can help protect cells from mutations that may become cancerous.
How to use holy basil
Consuming fresh holy basil leaves in tea is the simplest way to reap the benefits of this plant. As a daily tonic, Dr. Guan recommends drinking a cup of holy basil tea once or twice a day between meals.
