Holy basil (Ocimum sanctum) is an herb native to India, where it is known as tulsi. It is sacred in the Hindu religious tradition and is regarded as one of the most important plants used in Ayurvedic medicine. Featuring a spicy tang that evokes the flavor of cloves, holy basil has been used traditionally to support:

• Heart health
• Optimal breathing
• Joint health
• Vision health
• Skin health

Holy basil may also help support our natural defenses to help counteract the day-to-day strain of modern life - preparations made from holy basil are widely used in India and elsewhere to address stress-related concerns. Look for holy basil in capsule form at health food stores, and follow package directions.

Information courtesy of Dr. Andrew Weil's Body-Mind-Spirit E-Newsletter, dated 9/30/11. Click here to go to the newsletter his website's newsletter sign-up page.