A Beginner's Guide to Holy Basil as a Natural Nootropic

Kings and Queens have risen and fallen, their actions shaping history and influencing cultures far beyond their realms, crafting legacies that resonate through the ages. In a parallel of wholeness stands the Queen of Herbs—Holy Basil.

Originating from the Indian subcontinent, this revered plant, also known as Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum L.), transcends the bounds of time and generations, held sacred by the ancients of India for its extensive medicinal virtues.

Holy Basil is a cornerstone of Ayurvedic tradition, an aromatic herb flourishing throughout India and Southeast Asia.

It reaches up to 20 inches in height, adorned with soft pink blossoms, releasing a unique fragrance that has enchanted countless generations. This herb embodies the quintessence of nature’s curative power, forming a bridge between time-honoured wisdom and contemporary scientific understanding.

In the present day, modern scientific investigation seeks to decode the secrets of its healing attributes. This fusion of ancient belief and scientific scrutiny has elevated Holy Basil from the revered confines of Indian gardens to the forefront of nootropic and wellness studies.

From enhancing mental clarity to bolstering stress resilience, Holy Basil presents a harmonious blend of sacred tradition and therapeutic potential.

 

Contents

• What is Holy Basil?
  
• Holy Basil as a Nootropic
• Scientific Evidence on Holy Basil's Benefits
• Health Benefits Beyond Cognition
• How to Use Holy Basil
• General Safety of Holy Basil

 

A Beginner's Guide to Holy Basil as a Natural Nootropic

 

 

What is Holy Basil? 

Definition and Background

Holy Basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum or Ocimum sanctum L.), known as Tulsi in Sanskrit, is one of the most revered herbs in traditional Indian medicine. Often referred to as the “Queen of Herbs,” it has been valued for centuries for its ability to promote balance, resilience, and overall vitality.

Native to the Indian subcontinent, Holy Basil thrives in tropical and subtropical climates across South and Southeast Asia. The plant typically reaches about 20 inches in height and is characterized by aromatic leaves and soft pink to purple blossoms. Beyond its fragrance, Tulsi holds an esteemed position in Ayurveda as a rasayana—a rejuvenating herb believed to enhance longevity, mental clarity, and spiritual well-being.

Modern research has begun to confirm many of these traditional claims. Studies have shown that Tulsi possesses potent adaptogenic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, which help the body adapt to physical and emotional stress while supporting cognitive and metabolic health.

Chemical Composition of Holy Basil

The therapeutic power of Holy Basil lies in its complex phytochemistry. Its essential oil and fixed oil fractions contain a diverse array of biologically active compounds, including eugenol, ursolic acid, rosmarinic acid, caryophyllene, and ocimene, which together contribute to its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and adaptogenic effects.

Holy Basil seeds are rich in a pale-yellow fixed oil composed primarily of palmitic, stearic, oleic, linoleic, and α-linolenic acids. Among these, α-linolenic acid (an omega-3 fatty acid) plays a key role in modulating inflammation and supporting cardiovascular and neural health. When metabolized, it produces eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), which is thought to underpin many of Tulsi’s biological activities.

Additionally, the leaves and stems contain phenolic compounds and flavonoids that act as powerful antioxidants, helping to protect cells from oxidative damage and promoting overall metabolic balance.

Historical Context and Traditional Uses

Holy Basil occupies a unique space at the intersection of medicine, spirituality, and daily life in India. In Hindu tradition, it is considered a sacred plant symbolizing purity, protection, and devotion. Tulsi shrubs are often cultivated in temple courtyards and household gardens, where they are used in both religious rituals and herbal remedies.

In Ayurveda, Tulsi is regarded as the “Elixir of Life.” It is said to balance the three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—and is used to support nearly every system of the body. Classical Ayurvedic texts describe Tulsi as beneficial for conditions such as respiratory ailments (asthma, bronchitis, colds), inflammation, fever, rheumatism, and cardiovascular disorders. Its calming, adaptogenic properties have also made it a trusted remedy for stress, anxiety, and mental fatigue, bridging traditional healing and modern nootropic science.

Beyond India, Holy Basil has found its place in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as a digestive and tonic herb, and in folk medicine across Africa and Latin America, where it is used to treat infections, skin conditions, and general fatigue. Across these cultures, Tulsi is viewed not just as a healing herb, but as a plant that restores harmony between mind, body, and spirit.

 

Holy Basil as a Nootropic

Understanding Nootropics

Nootropics—commonly known as “smart drugs” or cognitive enhancers—are substances that support brain performance, particularly focus, memory, mental clarity, and resilience to stress. They can be broadly divided into two categories: synthetic nootropics, such as racetams or modafinil, which are lab-engineered to target specific neural pathways; and natural nootropics, derived from plants and herbs that enhance cognition more holistically by supporting brain health and reducing oxidative or stress-related damage.

Holy Basil (Tulsi) belongs to the latter group of natural nootropics. Unlike synthetic compounds that stimulate specific neurotransmitters, Tulsi works through adaptogenic and neuroprotective mechanisms, helping the brain maintain equilibrium under physical, emotional, and environmental stress.

This dual action—calming the mind while sharpening cognition—makes Holy Basil a standout in the world of natural nootropics, offering balanced, sustainable cognitive support without overstimulation or dependency.

Enhancing Cognition

One of the most important clinical studies on Holy Basil’s role in enhance attention, processing speed, and mental flexibility was conducted by Sampath et al. (2015). This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial that investigated whether daily supplementation with Holy Basil could improve cognitive performance in healthy adults. Participants took 300 mg of standardized Holy Basil leaf extract or a placebo each day for 30 days. Researchers then assessed several aspects of cognition using validated tests, including the Stroop test (which measures attention and mental flexibility) and the Sternberg memory scanning test (which measures working memory speed and accuracy).

The findings were compelling. Compared to placebo, participants taking Holy Basil showed faster reaction times and fewer errors on both cognitive tests, suggesting better attention control and information processing. Brainwave measurements using EEG also showed a significant improvement in P300 latency, a marker of faster neural processing and focus. Interestingly, the Holy Basil group also showed reductions in salivary cortisol and anxiety scores, indicating a calming effect that may have supported cognitive performance (Sampath et al., 2015).

In simple terms, this study suggests that Holy Basil can help the brain process information more efficiently—helping you think a little quicker and stay more focused, especially under mild stress.

Stress Reduction

One of the most comprehensive studies to date was conducted by Lopresti et al. (2022). This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial explored whether a standardized Holy Basil extract (Holixer™) could help reduce stress and improve sleep in adults experiencing moderate stress. Over 100 participants were randomly assigned to take either 125 mg of Holy Basil extract twice daily or a placebo for eight weeks.

Researchers tracked both psychological and physiological markers of stress. Participants completed the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) to measure subjective stress and underwent the Maastricht Acute Stress Test (MAST)—a laboratory challenge designed to trigger a real stress response. The team also collected salivary cortisol and α-amylase, measured blood pressure, and even analyzed hair cortisol levels to assess long-term stress hormone exposure.

The results were striking. Compared to placebo, participants taking Holy Basil showed a significant reduction in perceived stress and better sleep quality after eight weeks. During the stress test, the Holy Basil group had lower cortisol and α-amylase levels, indicating a calmer physiological response to stress. Their blood pressure and subjective stress ratings were also significantly lower during the test. Over time, hair samples revealed reduced cortisol accumulation, suggesting that Holy Basil helped to regulate the body’s long-term stress response (Lopresti et al., 2022).

These findings were further supported by a systematic review by the same research team (Lopresti, Smith & Drummond, 2022), which examined dozens of human trials on plant-based adaptogens that influence the HPA axis—the body’s central stress response system. Holy Basil emerged as one of the few botanicals with consistent evidence showing it can reduce both perceived and biological stress markers in humans.

Sleep Improvements

In a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, Lopresti et al. (2022) found that adults taking Holy Basil extract not only felt less stressed but also slept significantly better. As detailed earlier, participants who took 125 mg twice daily for eight weeks showed improved sleep scores and lower stress hormones, suggesting that Tulsi promotes deeper, more restorative sleep by calming the body’s stress response (Lopresti et al., 2022).

Earlier research has shown similar results. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study by Bhattacharyya et al. (2011), 35 adults experiencing general stress were given either 1,200 mg per day of a standardized Holy Basil extract (OciBest) or a placebo for six weeks. The researchers tracked a wide range of stress-related symptoms—including sleep quality, forgetfulness, and exhaustion—using a validated questionnaire. Participants taking Holy Basil reported a 39% greater improvement in overall stress-related symptoms than the placebo group, with notable gains in sleep quality, exhaustion, and feeling refreshed upon waking. Importantly, no adverse effects were observed, underscoring Holy Basil’s excellent safety profile (Bhattacharyya et al., 2011).

Supporting these findings, Cohen (2014) reviewed human and animal studies and noted that Tulsi acts as a natural anxiolytic—reducing anxiety and balancing neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. This helps explain why many people report calmer nights and improved mood stability when taking Tulsi consistently.

 

Scientific Evidence on Holy Basil's Benefits

Lowering Cholesterol

Maintaining healthy cholesterol levels is essential for heart and brain health, and emerging research suggests that Holy Basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum), or Tulsi, may help support this naturally.

One of the earliest studies to explore this was a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial by Agrawal et al. (1996). Conducted in adults with non–insulin-dependent diabetes, the study investigated how fresh Holy Basil leaves affected blood glucose and lipid levels. Participants followed a crossover design—taking basil leaves during one period and placebo leaves during another. While the primary goal was to measure blood sugar, researchers also recorded lipid changes. After the basil phase, participants not only had lower fasting and post-meal glucose, but also showed a modest reduction in total cholesterol compared to placebo. This early evidence suggested that Tulsi’s metabolic benefits could extend to cholesterol regulation as well.

More recently, a meta-analysis by Jamshidi et al. (2018) pulled together findings from multiple randomized clinical trials on Holy Basil’s effects in adults with metabolic conditions. Across studies, supplementation with Tulsi was linked to significant reductions in total and LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, along with improvements in VLDL and triglycerides in some cases. The authors concluded that Holy Basil has consistent, measurable effects on lipid metabolism, supporting its traditional use as a metabolic tonic.

Regulating Blood Sugar & Pressure

Maintaining balanced blood sugar and blood pressure is essential for both cognitive and cardiovascular health—and Holy Basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum, or Tulsi) may help support both.

One of the best examples comes from the Agrawal et al. (1996) clinical trial in adults with type 2 diabetes. In this randomized, placebo-controlled crossover study, participants took fresh Holy Basil leaves daily for several weeks, followed by a washout and placebo phase. The researchers measured fasting and post-meal blood glucose levels, along with cholesterol. After the Tulsi phase, participants experienced a 17% reduction in fasting glucose and a 7% reduction in post-meal glucose, compared with minimal changes during placebo. Some also showed modest reductions in total cholesterol. The findings suggested that Tulsi can act as a gentle, natural glucose-lowering agent, complementing diet and lifestyle strategies (Agrawal et al., 1996).

Beyond glucose control, there’s also emerging evidence that Holy Basil helps regulate blood pressure, particularly in situations of acute stress. In the Lopresti et al. (2022) double-blind, placebo-controlled trial—previously discussed for its effects on stress and sleep—participants taking 125 mg of Holy Basil extract twice daily for eight weeks not only reported reduced perceived stress but also showed significantly lower blood pressure responses during a laboratory stress test. Compared to placebo, the Tulsi group had lower systolic and diastolic readings, along with reduced cortisol and α-amylase (two markers of stress activation). This suggests Tulsi helps the body stay physiologically calmer under pressure, reducing spikes in blood pressure that often accompany chronic stress.

Supporting these human findings, Umar et al. (2010) investigated Ocimum basilicum (a related basil species with overlapping compounds like eugenol and rosmarinic acid) in an animal model of renovascular hypertension. Over four weeks, basil extract significantly reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure and decreased levels of endothelin-1 and angiotensin II—two key molecules that constrict blood vessels. These findings provide mechanistic insight into how compounds in the Ocimum genus may influence vascular relaxation and blood flow regulation.

 

Health Benefits Beyond Cognition

Immune System Support

One of the most detailed human studies exploring this was conducted by Mondal et al. (2011) at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences. In this double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled crossover trial, healthy adult volunteers took 300 mg of Holy Basil extract daily for four weeks, followed by a washout period and placebo. Researchers measured a range of immune markers, including T-helper cells, natural killer (NK) cells, and important immune-signaling proteins called cytokines (specifically interferon-gamma [IFN-γ] and interleukin-4 [IL-4]).

The results were impressive. Compared to placebo, participants taking Holy Basil showed significant increases in T-helper cells and NK cells—two of the body’s key defense mechanisms that help identify and destroy harmful pathogens. The researchers also found elevated levels of IFN-γ and IL-4, suggesting that Tulsi doesn’t overstimulate immunity but rather balances it, supporting both the body’s defensive (Th1) and regulatory (Th2) pathways. In other words, Tulsi appears to make the immune system more responsive without pushing it into overdrive (Mondal et al., 2011).

These clinical findings are supported by a recent comprehensive review by Kamelnia et al. (2023), which examined the broader Ocimum plant family, including O. basilicum and O. tenuiflorum. The review summarized decades of research showing that basil species possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory compounds such as eugenol and rosmarinic acid. These bioactive molecules help regulate immune function and reduce excessive inflammation—providing a clear biochemical basis for the immune benefits observed in Tulsi human trials.

Oral Health

When it comes to maintaining a healthy smile, most people think of fluoride toothpaste or antiseptic mouthwash—but few know that Holy Basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum, also known as Tulsi) has been clinically shown to support oral hygiene just as effectively.

One of the best studies on this topic was conducted by Gupta et al. (2014). In this triple-blind, randomized controlled trial, researchers compared the effects of a Tulsi mouthwash with a chlorhexidine mouthwash (the gold standard in dentistry) and a placebo saline rinse. Over 30 days, healthy volunteers were asked to rinse daily, while their plaque and gingival inflammation were measured at baseline, 15 days, and 30 days.

The findings were remarkable. Both the Tulsi and chlorhexidine groups experienced significant reductions in plaque and gingivitis compared to placebo, with no meaningful difference between the two active treatments. In other words, Tulsi mouthwash performed just as well as chlorhexidine—but without the unpleasant taste or risk of tooth staining often associated with long-term chlorhexidine use (Gupta et al., 2014).

Further support for Tulsi’s oral benefits came from a study by Nadar et al. (2020), which tested a 4% Tulsi extract toothpaste in adolescents. This triple-blind, randomized clinical trial compared the herbal toothpaste to a fluoridated and a placebo version over a 21-day period. The results showed that both the Tulsi and fluoridated toothpastes produced similar and significant improvements in plaque and gingival health compared to the placebo.

 

 

How to Use Holy Basil

Choosing the right form and dosage of Holy Basil depends on your goals, health status, and preferred method of use.

Different Forms of Holy Basil Consumption

Holy Basil is versatile and can be incorporated into your daily regimen in various forms:

• Fresh Leaves: Chewing a few fresh Tulsi leaves is a traditional Ayurvedic practice believed to promote oral health, freshen breath, and calm the nervous system. This simple ritual remains a popular daily routine in Indian households.
• Tea: Holy Basil tea is one of the most enjoyable and soothing ways to consume the herb. Steeping 1 teaspoon of dried leaves or 4–5 fresh leaves in hot water for 5–6 minutes releases its essential oils and polyphenols. Research suggests Tulsi tea can help reduce perceived stress and promote relaxation when consumed regularly.
• Supplements: Standardized extracts of Holy Basil are available as capsules, tablets, or tinctures, offering a consistent dose of bioactive compounds. Clinical studies exploring Tulsi’s adaptogenic and cognitive benefits commonly use 300–1000 mg of leaf extract per day, often divided into two doses.
• Essential Oil: Holy Basil essential oil, when diluted with a carrier oil, can be used topically or for aromatherapy. Studies indicate it possesses antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity, making it useful for relaxation and minor skin applications.
• Powder: Dried and ground Tulsi leaves can be added to smoothies, juices, or meals. This form offers an easy way to integrate Holy Basil into a balanced diet while preserving many of its natural antioxidants.

Recommended Dosages for Health Benefits

While the ideal dose can vary based on extract strength and individual needs, general guidelines from human studies suggest:

• Fresh Leaves: 2–5 grams per day.
• Tea: 1–2 cups daily.
• Supplements: 300–1000 mg/day of standardized extract, taken in divided doses.

Timing and Combining with Other Supplements

• Timing: For stress relief or better sleep, Tulsi tea or supplements are best taken in the evening. For enhanced focus and mental clarity, a morning dose may be more effective.
• Combinations: Holy Basil pairs well with other natural adaptogens. Ashwagandha can amplify its stress-relieving effects, while Ginkgo biloba or Bacopa monnieri may complement its cognitive benefits.

Incorporating Holy Basil into your routine can be simple yet transformative. Whether sipped as tea, taken as a supplement, or enjoyed fresh, Tulsi offers a holistic approach to mental clarity, stress balance, and overall well-being—bridging ancient tradition with modern nootropic science.

 

General Safety of Holy Basil

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

Holy Basil is well tolerated by most people, but mild side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, or digestive upset may occur, especially at high doses. Because it can naturally lower blood sugar, individuals with diabetes or hypoglycemia should monitor their glucose levels closely when taking Tulsi alongside medication. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are advised to avoid Holy Basil supplements due to limited safety data. Those with thyroid disorders should also use caution, as some evidence suggests the herb may influence thyroid hormone levels.

Interactions with Medications

Like many bioactive herbs, Holy Basil may interact with certain medications.

• Antidiabetic medications: Concurrent use could enhance blood sugar–lowering effects, increasing the risk of hypoglycemia.
• Anticoagulants and antiplatelet drugs: Preliminary evidence suggests Tulsi may have mild blood-thinning properties. Those taking warfarin, aspirin, or similar medications should consult a physician before supplementation.
• Sedatives and anxiolytics: Due to its calming, adaptogenic properties, Tulsi might enhance the effects of certain sedative medications; this interaction remains theoretical but warrants caution.

Importance of Moderation and Medical Guidance

As with any supplement, moderation is key. Using Holy Basil within clinically studied doses—typically 300–1000 mg of standardized extract daily—is considered safe for short-term use. Exceeding these doses or combining multiple herbal supplements without guidance can increase the risk of interactions or unwanted effects.

Individuals with chronic conditions, those taking prescription medications, or women who are pregnant or nursing should consult a qualified healthcare professional before beginning Holy Basil supplementation. A clinician can help tailor dosing, monitor for interactions, and ensure that Tulsi’s adaptogenic and cognitive benefits are realized safely. 

 

Conclusion

Holy Basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum), long revered in Ayurveda as the “Queen of Herbs,” represents the meeting point between ancient tradition and modern neuroscience. More than just a botanical remedy, it embodies a natural blueprint for balance—supporting cognitive clarity, emotional resilience, and physiological harmony.

Modern research continues to validate what traditional healers have known for centuries: Holy Basil acts as a powerful adaptogen and natural nootropic, helping the body adapt to stress, protect neural function, and sustain focus and mental energy over time. Unlike many synthetic enhancers that stimulate performance temporarily, Tulsi works holistically—nourishing rather than overstimulating the mind.

Incorporating Holy Basil into daily life—whether as a tea, supplement, or ritual herb—is both a practical step toward mental and physical vitality and a quiet acknowledgment of the deeper wisdom that health arises from the balance of mind, body, and spirit.

For those interested in taking the first step, our Learning & Memory Nootropic Supplement at Nooroots offers a carefully formulated introduction to the world of cognitive enhancement—crafted to support both clarity of mind and balance of mood.

  

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Holy Basil?

Holy Basil, also known as Tulsi, is an adaptogenic herb revered in Ayurvedic medicine for its stress-relieving and cognitive-enhancing properties.

How does Holy Basil work as a nootropic?

Holy Basil enhances cognitive function by reducing stress, improving focus, and protecting brain cells from oxidative stress and inflammation.

Can Holy Basil improve memory?

Yes, studies suggest that Holy Basil can improve memory and cognitive function by reducing stress and enhancing brain health.

Is Holy Basil safe for daily use?

Holy Basil is generally safe for daily use. However, it is advisable to follow recommended dosages and consult with a healthcare provider, especially if taking other medications.

What are the benefits of Holy Basil for the brain?

Holy Basil supports brain health by reducing anxiety and stress, improving mental clarity, and protecting against cognitive decline.

How much Holy Basil should I take for cognitive benefits?

Typical dosages for cognitive benefits range from 300 to 600 mg of Holy Basil extract per day. It's best to follow specific product guidelines or consult a healthcare professional.

Are there any side effects of taking Holy Basil?

Holy Basil is well-tolerated, but some individuals may experience mild side effects like nausea or digestive discomfort, especially at high doses.

Can Holy Basil help with anxiety and depression?

Yes, Holy Basil has been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression by modulating cortisol levels and improving mood.

What is the best way to take Holy Basil for nootropic effects?

Holy Basil can be taken as a supplement in capsule or tablet form, or consumed as tea. It is best taken consistently for optimal benefits.

How long does it take to see the effects of Holy Basil on cognitive function?

The cognitive benefits of Holy Basil can typically be observed within a few weeks of consistent use, depending on the dosage and individual response.

 

Learn more about the vitamins, minerals and plant extracts we use to give your brain a daily boost

• Cacao
• Ginkgo Biloba
• Ashwagandha
• N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine
• Holy Basil
• L-Theanine
• Rhodiola Rosea
• Guarana Seed
• Piperine

 

References

• Agrawal, P., Rai, V., & Singh, R. B. (1996). Randomized placebo-controlled, single-blind trial of holy basil leaves in patients with noninsulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. International Journal of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics, 34(9), 406–409. PubMed PMID: 8880292
• Bhattacharyya, D., Sur, T. K., Jana, U., & Debnath, P. K. (2008). Controlled programmed trial of Ocimum sanctum leaf on generalized anxiety disorders. Nepal Medical College Journal, 10(3), 176–179. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19253862
• Bhattacharyya, D., Sur, T. K., Jana, U., Debnath, P. K., & Sengupta, S. (2011). Efficacy of an extract of Ocimum tenuiflorum (OciBest) in the management of general stress: A double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2011, 1–8. PubMed PMID: 22121373
• Biological activities of Ocimum sanctum L. fixed oil—an overview. (2007, May 1). Pharmacognosy Reviews. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17569280
• Cohen, M. M. (2014). Tulsi—Ocimum sanctum: A herb for all reasons. Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, 5(4), 251–259. https://doi.org/10.4103/0975-9476.146554
• Gupta, D., Bhaskar, D. J., Gupta, R. K., Karim, B., Jain, A., Singh, R., & Karim, W. (2014). A randomized controlled clinical trial of Ocimum sanctum and chlorhexidine mouthwash on dental plaque and gingival inflammation. Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, 5(2), 109–116. PubMed PMID: 24948862
• Hasan, M. R., Alotaibi, B. S., Althafar, Z. M., Mujamammi, A. H., & Jameela, J. (2023). An update on the therapeutic anticancer potential of Ocimum sanctum L.: “Elixir of life.” Molecules, 28(3), 1193. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28031193
• Jamshidi, N., & Cohen, M. M. (2017). The clinical efficacy and safety of Tulsi in humans: A systematic review of the literature. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2017, 1–13. https://doi.org/10.1155/2017/9217567
• Jamshidi, N., Da Costa, C., & Cohen, M. M. (2018). Holy basil (Tulsi) lowers fasting glucose and improves lipid profile in adults with metabolic disease: A meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. Journal of Functional Foods, 45, 47–57. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jff.2018.03.030
• Kamelnia, E., Didehban, R., Rahimifard, M., Farhadnejad, H., & Zakeri-Milani, P. (2023). Anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and antioxidant properties of Ocimum basilicum L.: A comprehensive review. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 14, 1185085. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2023.1185085
• Kusindarta, D. L., Wihadmadyatami, H., & Haryanto, A. (2016). Ocimum sanctum Linn. stimulates the expression of choline acetyltransferase on human cerebral microvascular endothelial cells. Veterinary World, 9(12), 1348–1354. https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2016.1348-1354
• Lopresti, A. L., Smith, S. J., & Drummond, P. D. (2022). Modulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis by plants and phytonutrients: A systematic review of human trials. Nutritional Neuroscience, 25(8), 1704–1730. PubMed PMID: 33650944
• Lopresti, A. L., Smith, S. J., Metse, A., & Drummond, P. D. (2022). A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigating the effects of an Ocimum tenuiflorum (Holy Basil) extract (Holixer™) on stress, mood, and sleep in adults experiencing stress. Frontiers in Nutrition, 9, 965130. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2022.965130
• Mondal, S., Varma, S., Bamola, V. D., Naik, S. N., Mirdha, B. R., Padhi, M. M., Mehta, N., & Mahapatra, S. C. (2011). Double-blinded randomized controlled trial for immunomodulatory effects of Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum Linn.) leaf extract on healthy volunteers. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 136(3), 452–456. PubMed PMID: 21619917
• Nadar, B. G., Bhat, N., Hegde, S., Rao, A., & Supriya, K. (2020). Comparative evaluation of efficacy of 4% Tulsi extract (Ocimum sanctum), fluoridated, and placebo dentifrices against gingivitis and plaque among 14–15-year-old schoolchildren: A triple-blinded randomized clinical trial. Contemporary Clinical Dentistry, 11(4), 327–334. https://doi.org/10.4103/ccd.ccd_647_19
• Pattanayak, P., Behera, P., Das, D., & Panda, S. K. (2010). Ocimum sanctum Linn.—A reservoir plant for therapeutic applications: An overview. Pharmacognosy Reviews, 4(7), 95–105. https://doi.org/10.4103/0973-7847.65323
• Sampath, S., Mahapatra, S. C., Padhi, M. M., Sharma, R., & Talwar, A. (2015). Holy basil (Ocimum sanctum Linn.) leaf extract enhances specific cognitive parameters in healthy adult volunteers: A placebo-controlled study. Indian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology, 59(1), 69–77. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26571987
• Saxena, R. C., Singh, R. P., Kumar, P., Negi, M. P. S., Saxena, V. S., Geetharani, P., Allan, J. J., & Venkateshwarlu, K. (2012). Efficacy of an extract of Ocimum tenuiflorum (OciBest) in the management of general stress: A double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2012, 1–7. https://doi.org/10.1155/2012/894509
• Umar, A., Imam, G., Yimin, W., Kerim, P., Tohti, I., Berké, B., & Moore, N. (2010). Antihypertensive effects of Ocimum basilicum L. on blood pressure in renovascular hypertensive rats. Hypertension Research, 33(7), 727–730. PubMed PMID: 20448636
• Wightman, E. L., Khan, J., Smith, E. M. L., Rolfe, V., Smith, D., Young, G. R., Cheung, W. K., & Kennedy, D. O. (2023). Chronic supplementation of a multi-ingredient herbal supplement increases speed of cognitive task performance alongside changes in the urinary metabolism of dopamine and the gut microbiome in cognitively intact older adults experiencing subjective memory decline: A randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel-groups investigation. Frontiers in Nutrition, 10, 1257516. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2023.1257516