What is the recommended dosage for Holy Basil?

Sleep: 300-600 mg extract, before bed

What are the side effects of Holy Basil?

Potential side effects include: Nausea, Diarrhea, May slow blood clotting.

Does holy basil help with sleep?

Holy basil (Tulsi, Ocimum tenuiflorum) is an adaptogenic herb traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine for stress and sleep support. A 2017 systematic review in the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine found that holy basil may help manage stress and improve sleep quality. Its anxiolytic properties may reduce cortisol levels and promote relaxation, though large-scale clinical trials specifically for sleep are limited.

How does holy basil (tulsi) support sleep?

Holy basil contains eugenol, rosmarinic acid, and other phytochemicals that modulate cortisol and reduce anxiety through GABAergic mechanisms. As an adaptogen, it helps the body manage stress response rather than directly inducing sedation. Research across 9 studies with 436 participants — including 3 RCTs — supports holy basil for anxiety-related sleep problems, with 8 of 9 studies finding positive outcomes. Grade B (Moderate) evidence.

What is the recommended dose of holy basil for sleep?

Clinical studies on holy basil (Ocimum sanctum) most commonly use 300 to 600 mg of standardized extract per day, sometimes divided into two doses. Holy basil is a traditional Ayurvedic adaptogen and is also consumed as tulsi tea in Indian medicine, where 2 to 3 cups per day is a common traditional dose. For sleep support specifically, evening dosing is most relevant given the cortisol-modulating and GABAergic mechanisms that promote relaxation.

Is holy basil safe for long-term use?

Holy basil has a long history of use in Ayurvedic medicine with a generally favorable safety profile. Research across 9 studies with 436 participants has not reported significant adverse effects at typical doses. One precaution: some animal studies suggest holy basil may have anticoagulant properties and could interact with blood-thinning medications. People on anticoagulants (warfarin, aspirin therapy) should consult a healthcare provider before regular holy basil supplementation.

How does holy basil compare to ashwagandha for sleep?

Both holy basil and ashwagandha are Ayurvedic adaptogens studied for stress and sleep, but ashwagandha has a substantially larger and more robust evidence base: 30 studies with 1,810 participants at Grade A strength for insomnia, versus holy basil's 9 studies with 436 participants at Grade B for anxiety-related sleep. Ashwagandha's withanolides also act directly on GABA-A receptors and have documented cortisol-lowering effects in RCTs. Holy basil may complement ashwagandha in a stack, but ashwagandha is better supported as a first choice.

Holy Basil

adaptogen

Also known as: Tulsi, Ocimum tenuiflorum, Ocimum sanctum

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About

Holy basil (tulsi) is an adaptogenic herb central to Ayurvedic medicine with documented anxiolytic properties. Research suggests its active compounds may help reduce cortisol and support a calmer state conducive to sleep, particularly when sleep disruption is stress-related.

How It Works

Eugenol and other phytochemicals modulate cortisol, reduce anxiety via GABAergic mechanisms for sleep support.

Evidence For Conditions

Condition	Grade	Studies	Participants
Anxiety-Related Sleep Problems	B	9	1160	View →

Side Effects

Nausea
Diarrhea
May slow blood clotting

Drug & Supplement Interactions

Blood thinners — holy basil may increase bleeding risk
Antidiabetic drugs — may lower blood sugar
Pentobarbital — may enhance sedative duration

Always inform your healthcare provider about all supplements you take.

Ashwagandha

Quick Facts

Dosage: Sleep: 300-600 mg extract, before bed
Forms: capsule tablet liquid powder
Natural Sources: Holy basil plant
Upper Limit: Not established
Best Time: 30-60 minutes before bed

Evidence Summary

Anxiety-Related Sleep Problems B

FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products and information on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The evidence grades presented are based on our analysis of published peer-reviewed research and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.