Holy Basil Oil
Botanical Name: Ocimum Sanctum
Common Method of Extraction: Holy basil oil is steam distilled from the leaves of the plant before the plant blossoms.
Parts Used: Leaf, flowers/buds
Note Classification: Top
Aroma: The initial aroma strength of the oil is strong. It has a strong, spicy and warming aroma.
Largest Producing Countries: Although basil is a native of India, it is cultivated all over Southeast Asia.
Traditional Use: Holy basil oil is also known as Tulsi oil and used widely in India. It is commonly used in the medical branch of Ayurveda and the plant is generally grown and distilled for medicinal, spiritual and aromatic purposes. Holy basil oil contains up to 85% of Eugenol. Holy basil oil has a warm and sweet aroma it is excellent is creating stimulating and energizing diffuser and room mist blends. It is an excellent oil to create blends for men especially. It can be used effectively in inhaler and diffuser and helps easing of anxiety and stress. Holy basil oil is also widely used in Chinese medicine. Holy basil oil has properties that control release of cortisol and also has an impact on the release of glucose in the blood. By controlling the release of cortisol it eases the effect of stress and anxiety. It also controls the release of corticosterone produced by the adrenal gland and offers triterpenoids which controls stress and anxiety. Holy basil helps with attention deficit disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity. Holy basil oil helps decrease pain and inflammation. The oil protects the skin proteins collagen and elastin and prevents the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on the skin and also other signs of ageing. Cineole present in Holy basil oil protect against Alzheimer’s diseases and other forms of dementia. The presence of cineole in the blood gives better cognitive learning and memory.
Blends Well With: Holy basil oil blends well with lavender, geranium, bergamot, orange, grapefruit, tangerine, clary sage, thyme, cedarwood and rosemary.
Of Interest: Holy basil has grown in India for more than 500 years and is mentioned in one of the four sacred Hindu texts, Rigveda. Holy basil addresses the three elements of holistic health, mind, body and soul. Holy basil is considered an herbal equivalent to the Fountain of Youth and helps in promoting longevity. In Hindu religion, Holy basil is known as the “elixir of life” because of its benefits. It is said to lengthen lifespan and promote good health and was used for meditative purposes by holy men in India.
Safety Data: Avoid taking oil internally or applying undiluted oil on the skin without guidance from experts or qualified aromatherapy practitioner. There are chances of Basil oil inhibiting blood clotting. Use oil under proper guidance of qualified people especially if you are pregnant, epileptic, have liver damage, cancer any other medical conditions. Extreme caution should be taken when using oil on children, elderly or if you have medical problems or if you are under any kind of medication. Holy basil oil should be used sparingly or avoided for topical use as it may cause dermal irritation or sensitivity.