When something harmful or irritating affects a part of our body, there is a biological response to try to remove it. Inflammation can be uncomfortable, but it means that the body is starting to heal itself.
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May 23, 2022
We all know basil as a culinary herb. It’s that bunch of leaves on top of your pizza or salad. It could also be the torn leaves in your olive-oil based marinade. And it’s often seen as the flaky greens on your hot and about-to-be-served marinara sauce on top of your pasta.
But did you know that a particular type of basil is known to have medicinal properties? Holy basil is called “the Queen of Herbs” for a reason. First used in Ayurvedic medicine, this was used to help maintain good health by preventing sickness via daily intake. The different plant parts are also used to treat different existing conditions. [1]
Nowadays, modern advances in supplements do away with the tedious task of herbal preparation. Holy basil comes in both its natural plant form or capsules. It is easy to obtain, as you do not need a prescription for it. But if you are currently undergoing treatment, it is best to see your doctor first for proper dosing.
References
[1] Marc Maurice Cohen, “Tulsi – Ocimum sanctum: A herb for all reasons”, Oct-Dec 2014, Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4296439/
[2] Brian Krans, et al, “The Health Benefits of Holy Basil”, 30 August 2017, Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/basil-benefits
[3] Reviewed by Melinda Ratini, DO, MS, “Holy Basil”, 6 October 2019, Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/vitamins-and-supplements/holy-basiil-uses-and-risks
[4] MP Bhattathiry, “15 Benefits of the Holy Basil (Tulsi) Herb”, Updated 13 January 2019, Retrieved from https://www.learnreligions.com/benefits-of-the-holy-basil-tulsi-1770035