Tulsi

http://www.planetayurveda.com/media/wysiwyg/planet/tulsi.jpg

Also called “holy basil,” Tulsi is revered in Ayurvedic medicine as the “elixir” of life.” This peppery-tasting herb sometimes is called “hot basil” and is used in stir-fry dishes and spicy soups. Tulsi is used as a treatment for a range of conditions including anxiety, asthma, diarrhea, fever, arthritis, eye diseases and indigestion.

In vitro, animal and human studies reveal tulsi may have therapeutic actions, including adaptogenic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, cardio-protective and immunomodulatory effects. A 2017 review in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine examined 24 studies to asses the clinical efficacy and safety of tulsi and found positive clinical outcomes with no adverse effects. Although these results reinforced the efficacy of Tulsi for treating diabetes, metabolic syndrome and psychological stress, further studies are needed to determine its mechanism of action, dosage, and dose form, as well as populations that may benefit from it.

The Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database lists holy basil as “possible safe when used orally, short-term.” The database notes some preliminary research on its effectiveness in reducing anxiety, blood sugar control and decreased symptoms of stress, but more evidence is needed in these areas. There is some evidence is needed that holy basil extract can be used safely for up to six weeks, however, the database advises against use during pregnancy and lactation due to lack of reliable information.

Commonly called “Indian Ginseng” or “Winter Cherry,” the adaptogentic herb Ashwagandha root is named for its odor. This herb emits the smell of horse-which is the literal translation of “Ashwagandha”- and consuming its extracts is said to give people strength and vitality similar to that of a horse.

Known as the “royal herb” in Eastern medicine, Ashwaganadha is the most commonly used and studied adaptation, although human studies are limited and Ashwagandha is not listed in the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database.

In a 2012 study on the safety and efficacy of Ashwagandha root for reducing stress and anxiety in adults, participants who took 300 milligrams of a high-concentration, full-spectrum extract of Ashwagandha root twice daily for 60 days experienced a significant reduction in stress and cortisol levels. No serious side effects were reported, and researchers concluded Ashwagandha root safety and effectively improved study participants’ resistance toward stress and improved self-assessed quality of life. However, further long-term research using a larger population with varying degrees of physical and psychological stress is needed to determine the effects of Ashwagandha root on stress resistance.  

By Vicki Shanta Retelny, RDN, LDN