Traditional forms of medicine, do have scientific basis and holy basil is one important herb where this is noted to hold true. For all those who seek scientific fact and reason over grandmother’s wisdom, we bring more insight on this magical herb. Known by many names and cultivated in many parts of the world, this herb’s healing properties and medicinal strengths make it a must have in many Hindu homes. Here is more information on its constituents and how they help in the healing process.
Properties
Holy basil comprises of various essential oils of carvacol, eugenol, linalool, caryophilline and methyleugenol. Other triterpenes like ursolic acid and flavonoids are also noted to be present.
Adaptogens
Tulasi has high levels of adaptogen, an agent that helps the human body to combat stress more effectively. As per herbalists, adaptogens are those herbs that work to increase the ability of human body to combat stress and adapt to changing conditions.
Rich anti-oxidant
An anti-oxidant slows down excess oxidation in the body and helps to protect body cells from harm caused by free radicals. This is done by binding together harmful free radicals and thus reducing their destructive powers. In this manner, antioxidants help to reduce disease and protect body and health from general degradation. Basil is rich in anti-oxidants and helps to strengthen the immune system while slowing down the ageing process.
Amino-modulator and immuno-modulator
This property of Tulasi helps to balance and improve the immune responses of the body. This helps the body to effectively fight antigens (disease causing agents) and maintain health.
Natural COX-2 inhibitor
COX-2 is an enzyme responsible for pain and inflammation. COX-2 inhibitors are thus a form of Non Steroidal anti inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that work directly against the COX-2 enzyme. Basil works as a natural pain killer without any side effects and inhibits the activity of COX-2.
Oleanolic acid
The presence of oleanolic acid in Tulasi also lends strong anti-HIV properties.
Ursolic acid
The presence of ursolic acid, gives it strong anti-cancer properties. Often also used in cosmetics, Ursolic acid inhibits cancer cells by inhibiting the STAT-3 activation pathway. Various bio-active derivatives such as anti-tumor agents can be derived from this component too.
Carvacrol
Carvacrol is noted to be a strong anti-bacterial, anti-microbial and anti-viral. As it can inhibit the growth of various bacterial strains, has low toxicity, pleasant taste and smell, it is a good food additive. Its other property is also noted to numb pain receptors. The presence of carvacrol in essential oils is also noted to lend in biostatic/biocidal properties against many bacteria, yeast and fungi.
Extensive research on Basil has proven that its many constituents are useful for the human body and play a role in the healing process. Besides helping to cure coughs, colds and fevers, Basil is also good as an antidepressant, antiviral, antibacterial, carminative, diuretic, expectorant and galactogogue (promoting the flow of mother’s milk). Also it is noted to be helpful in improving general health. Much more research is constantly being undertaken to utilize its beneficial properties.
