Holy Basil: The Queen of Herbs

If you're thinking... What the heck is Holy Basil? You're not alone. Let us explain the delights in store for you.

Holy basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum), also known as tulsi, is one of the most revered and sacred plants in its native land of India. Here at Humble, we especially love it for its herbaceous, delicately sweet aromatics that linger pleasantly in the nose. Unlike sweet basil (think Italian cuisine), which has an anise-like aroma, holy basil lends a more clove-like spice. 

The Many Benefits of Holy Basil

This adaptogenic herb has a history within Indian medicine as a treatment for many conditions, from eye diseases to ringworms. In fact, in India, it is grown near temples and commonly found planted in backyards for its power to invite the presence of gods, purify the air, and protect the dwellers.

In Eastern medicine, the entire plant is used in different capacities to treat a variety of conditions:

• Fresh flowers for bronchitis
• Leaves and seeds, with black pepper, for malaria
• The whole plant for diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting
• Pill and ointment form for eczema
• Alcohol extract for stomach ulcers and eye diseases
• Essential oil made from the leaves for insect bites¹

Holy basil has been shown to have anti-depressant and anti-anxiety properties similar to anti-depressant drugs. Studies have shown that it can help people feel more social and less anxious. In Ayurvedic practice, holy basil is touted for its adaptogenic properties, helping with negativity, stress, and anxiety. Many of these medicinal purposes involve actually eating the leaves or drinking a tea so always consult your doctor before ingesting holy basil.

But how does all this relate to your deodorant? If you experience stress sweat, good news! Holy basil not only acts as a de-stressor, but it also helps eliminate odor-causing bacteria with its antimicrobial properties².

Holy Basil Essential Oil

The clarifying aroma of the essential oil is said to assist in creating a higher awareness of consciousness and emotional strength in difficult times. The holy basil for our essential oil blend comes from a family owned business that has been operating for over 40 years. Their farm, along with neighboring small farms, grow and harvest holy basil for traditional steam distillation.

We blend this absolutely enchanting essential oil with our Mountain Lavender for a truly unique and soul-cleansing scent.

Sources

¹Healthline. "The Health benefits of Holy Basil"
²US National Library of Medicine. "Antimicrobial Activity of Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum) Essential Oil and Their Major Constituents against Three Species of Bacteria"

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