Holy Basil (Kaphrao)
spice
Ocimum tenuiflorum, commonly known as tulasi, tulsi, or holy basil, is an aromatic perennial plant in the family Lamiaceae. It is widely cultivated throughout the Southeast Asian tropics. It is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Australia and the western Pacific. This plant has escaped from cultivation and has naturalized in many tropical regions of the Americas. It is an agricultural and environmental weed.
Conditions addressed
How to use
- Add to meals during cooking, brew as tea, or mix into warm water with honey.
- Use ¼–1 tsp per serving.
Pregnancy, Breastfeeding & Children
Pregnancy
AvoidHoly basil (Tulsi) has documented emmenagogue and abortifacient use in traditional Ayurvedic medicine and is generally advised against in medicinal/supplement doses throughout pregnancy.
Breastfeeding
Use CautionLimited safety data during breastfeeding; adaptogenic/hormone-modulating activity means it's generally used cautiously and not as a first-choice herb while nursing.
Children
Use CautionNot typically used in concentrated form for young children; mild culinary use in food is generally considered low risk.
Interactions & contraindications
May have a calming/sedative effect
Watch for: Benzodiazepines, sleep medications, other sedative herbs, and alcohol
Combined CNS-depressant effects can cause excessive drowsiness or impaired coordination.
May affect blood sugar
Watch for: Insulin and oral diabetes medications (metformin, sulfonylureas)
Additive blood-sugar-lowering effects can risk hypoglycemia — monitor glucose closely.
May affect immune activity
Watch for: Immunosuppressants (for transplant or autoimmune conditions)
Immune-stimulating herbs can work against immunosuppressive therapy.