I’m constantly amazed at the incredible healing powers of herbs. Seldom do you see an herb that has only one or two healing properties – often it’s five or more! Today I want to talk about Holy Basil Benefits, which is known as the Queen of Herbs for good reason.
Holy Basil as an Adaptogen
One of its most important functions is to act as an adaptogen, which literally means it helps you adapt and minimize the effects of chronic stress. My son Chris, who is a PA, was here for a week from California and we enjoyed several “shop talk” conversations. With his medical background and my naturopathic one, we sometimes have differing opinions, but one thing we heartily agree on is just how profound the effects of chronic stress are on our health.
We’re so used to living in a stress-filled world that we can forget it’s taking a major toll on our bodies. Constant noise from advertisements, news reports, social media and living in a society which stresses “doing” constantly. Bombardment of our nervous systems from WiFi, cell phone radiation and other electromagnetic fields. Traffic, financial stress, illness, you get the idea.
Holy Basil Benefits for Overall Health
Holy Basil is a beautiful support for those living stressful lives, which is basically all of us. It also assists with blood sugar regulation, helping with insulin resistance and the dreaded belly fat that goes along with it. It has anti-inflammatory effects, which is a huge benefit. Most of our modern health problems have chronic inflammation at their root, including the Big 3 – heart disease, cancer and diabetes. And those aches and pains that come with aging? They are caused by inflammation
Holy Basil also helps to strengthen the immune system, which is more important than ever. It’s an antioxidant, helping to protect our cells from the damage pollution causes. It helps to lower blood pressure, prevent thick blood, and protect one of the hardest working organs in your body – your liver.
You can grow Holy Basil, but it’s only a perennial in Zones 10 & 11, which are more tropical. In my area of Atlanta it behaves as an annual, but you can grow it in a pot and bring it indoors for the winter. And of course, it’s easy to find at any health food store and in our Fullscript store.
Safety Considerations
If you’re on any prescription medication, be sure to check with your doctor before adding Holy Basil. Ideally, your doctor would support you, monitor your health improvements, and adjust your medications accordingly.
Final Thoughts
If you decide to try this amazing herb, let me know what you think!
