howtosupplement
Mood/Hormonal/Heart

Holy Basil

Tulsi leaf extract that may reduce everyday stress and offer modest glucose and heart-marker support in adults.

Holy Basil

Holy Basil

43
score
C
evidence
Caution
risk

Proven Benefits

01Reduces stress and anxiety
02May lower cortisol response
03May improve glycemic control
04May improve lipid profile
05May lower blood pressure

Chemical Forms

Recommended
  • Standardized holy basil leaf extract
  • Holy basil leaf powder
  • Dried holy basil leaf
Avoid
  • Holy basil essential oil (too concentrated; not the studied form)
  • Proprietary blends with undisclosed tulsi dose
Expert Note

Most human studies use leaf powder or leaf extract, not essential oil. Standardized leaf extracts provide more consistent levels of marker compounds such as ocimumosides, eugenol, or ursolic acid and make it easier to match studied doses than loose powders or opaque blends.

Protocol

Amount
300-600 mg standardized leaf extract
Frequency
Once daily or split into 2 doses
When
With food, ideally in the morning or split morning/evening; consistency matters more than exact timing.

Safety & Limits

Upper Safe Limit
1200 mg/day standardized extract (highest commonly studied daily dose; no official UL)
Cycling
Safe for continuous use

Contraindications

Pregnancy or breastfeeding — insufficient safety data, avoid unless a clinician approves
Diabetes medications or insulin — may add to glucose-lowering effects
Anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs — possible added bleeding risk, especially with eugenol-rich products
Scheduled surgery — stop 1-2 weeks beforehand due to bleeding and glucose concerns
Trying to conceive — avoid concentrated extracts until more human fertility data are available
Updated Invalid Date