Holy Basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum) and Blood sugar / diabetes support: evidence and sources

Tulsi, also known as holy basil, is indigenous to the Indian continent and highly revered for its medicinal uses within the Ayurvedic and Siddha medical systems. Many in vitro, animal and human studies attest to tulsi having multiple therapeutic actions including adaptogenic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, and immunomodulatory effects, yet to date there are no systematic reviews of human research on tulsi's clinical efficacy and safety. We conducted a comprehensive literature review of human studies that reported on a clinical outcome after ingestion of tulsi. We searched for studies published in books, theses, conference proceedings, and electronic databases including Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, Embase, Medline, PubMed, Science Direct, and Indian Medical databases. A total of 24 studies were identified that reported therapeutic effects on metabolic disorders, cardiovascular disease, immunity, and neurocognition. All studies reported favourable clinical outcomes with no studies reporting any significant adverse events. The reviewed studies reinforce traditional uses and suggest tulsi is an effective treatment for lifestyle-related chronic diseases including diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and psychological stress. Further studies are required to explore mechanisms of action, clarify the dosage and dose form, and determine the populations most likely to benefit from tulsi's therapeutic effects.

Ocimum sanctum Linn ( O. sanctum L.), commonly known as Holy Basil or Tulsi, is a fragrant herbaceous plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family. This plant is widely cultivated and found in north-central parts of India, several Arab countries, West Africa and tropical regions of the Eastern World. Tulsi is known to be an adaptogen, aiding the body in adapting to stress by harmonizing various bodily systems. Revered in Ayurveda as the "Elixir of Life", Tulsi is believed to enhance lifespan and foster longevity. Eugenol, the active ingredient present in Tulsi, is a l-hydroxy-2-methoxy-4-allylbenzene compound with diverse therapeutic applications. As concerns over the adverse effects of conventional antibacterial agents continue to grow, alternative therapies have gained prominence. Essential oils (EOs) containing antioxidants have a long history of utilization in traditional medicine and have gained increasing popularity over time. Numerous in vitro, in vivo and clinical studies have provided compelling evidence supporting the safety and efficacy of antioxidant EOs derived from medicinal plants for promoting health. This comprehensive review aims to highlight the scientific knowledge regarding the therapeutic properties of O. sanctum , focusing on its antibacterial, anti-diabetic, anti-carcinogenic, radioprotective, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, neurogenesis, anti-depressant and other beneficial characteristics. Also, the extracts of O. sanctum L. have the ability to reduce chronic inflammation linked to neurological disorders such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease. The information presented in this review shed light on the multifaceted potential of Tulsi and its derivatives in maintaining and promoting health. This knowledge may pave the way for the development of novel therapeutic interventions and natural remedies that harness the immense therapeutic potential of Tulsi in combating various health conditions, while also providing valuable insights for further research and exploration in this field.