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Clinical Study on the Effects of Ocimum tenuiflorum (Holy Basil) Extract on Stress, Mood, and Sleep
Study Overview
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted to evaluate the effects of Ocimum tenuiflorum (Holy Basil) extract, commercially known as Holixer™, on stress, mood balance, and sleep quality among adults dealing with stress. The study followed a two-arm, parallel-group design over an eight-week period and was registered under the Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12621000609853).
Background and Purpose
In Ayurvedic tradition, Ocimum tenuiflorum is celebrated as “the elixir of life” for its reputed ability to enhance vitality, longevity, and emotional stability. Despite its long history of use, scientific data validating its adaptogenic and anti-stress properties remain limited. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of a standardized Holy Basil extract (Holixer™) on both subjective and objective indicators of stress and sleep in adults experiencing elevated stress levels.
Methodology
A total of 100 healthy volunteers, aged 18 to 65 years, were randomly assigned to receive either 125 mg of Holixer™ twice daily or a placebo. Participants were evaluated using several validated assessment tools, including the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) as the primary outcome measure, along with the Profile of Mood States, Athens Insomnia Scale (AIS), Restorative Sleep Questionnaire, and the PROMIS-29 Health Profile.
Sleep quality was objectively tracked through wrist-worn Fitbit devices, while physiological stress responses were assessed using the Maastricht Acute Stress Test (MAST). Changes in hair cortisol levels provided an additional biomarker-based insight into long-term stress regulation.
Results and Findings
At the end of the eight-week trial, participants receiving Holixer demonstrated significantly greater reductions in perceived stress (PSS; p = 0.003) and improved sleep quality (AIS; p = 0.025) compared with the placebo group.
Furthermore, hair cortisol concentrations were notably lower (p = 0.025), suggesting reduced chronic stress levels.
When subjected to the experimental stress procedure (MAST), the Holixer group exhibited attenuated physiological and psychological stress responses, with significant decreases in salivary cortisol (p = 0.001), salivary amylase (p = 0.001), systolic blood pressure (p = 0.010), diastolic blood pressure (p = 0.025), and subjective stress ratings (p < 0.001).
Safety and Tolerability
Holixer supplementation was well-tolerated, with no major adverse effects reported throughout the study period. These results support the use of standardized Holy Basil extract as a safe and effective adaptogenic supplement for promoting relaxation, emotional balance, and restorative sleep in individuals exposed to daily stress.
Traditional Uses of Holy Basil (Tulsi)
A Sacred Herb Rooted in Ancient Wisdom
For centuries, Tulsi (Holy Basil) has been deeply woven into the spiritual and healing traditions of India. Almost every home and temple in India cherishes a Tulsi plant, believed to purify the air and nurture inner peace. In Ayurveda, Tulsi is honored as a Rasayana—a rejuvenating herb that restores balance and promotes longevity. It is valued for its ability to harmonize the body, mind, and spirit, offering protection and strength against everyday stressors.
A Powerful Adaptogen for Holistic Wellness
Ayurvedic practitioners have long celebrated Tulsi for its remarkable adaptogenic qualities. It helps the body adapt to physical, emotional, and environmental stress, promoting endurance and mental clarity. Modern science now supports these traditional claims—research has shown that Holy Basil possesses antimicrobial, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and cardioprotective properties. These findings confirm why Tulsi continues to be one of Ayurveda’s most treasured herbs.
Respiratory and Fever Relief
Traditionally, Tulsi leaves were used to strengthen the respiratory system and maintain clear airways. It has been a trusted home remedy for coughs, colds, asthma, and bronchitis. Historical records also describe its use for reducing fevers and supporting recovery. In one clinical observation from Northern India, Tulsi showed notable effectiveness in bringing down fever and improving overall wellness compared to conventional remedies.
Digestive and Metabolic Support
Tulsi is equally respected for its positive influence on digestion and metabolism. Often consumed as a tea—sometimes combined with ginger—it supports healthy digestion, soothes the stomach, and enhances nutrient absorption. Its natural compounds help balance metabolism and promote sustained energy throughout the day.
A Treasure of Multifunctional Compounds
What truly sets Holy Basil apart from other herbs is its rich composition of bioactive phytochemicals. With compounds such as eugenol, flavonoids, and terpenoids, Tulsi provides broad-spectrum support to various body systems. These active components offer benefits that extend far beyond basic nutrition—helping to stabilize mood, improve circulation, and support overall immunity.
A Modern Perspective on an Ancient Remedy
In traditional medicine, every part of the Ocimum sanctum plant—leaves, seeds, flowers, roots, and even stems—has been used for therapeutic purposes. Over time, scientific studies have validated many of these traditional uses. Tulsi extracts and its major compound eugenol have been shown to influence the immune, cardiovascular, nervous, reproductive, and digestive systems. This growing body of research provides a strong scientific foundation for Tulsi’s enduring reputation as a versatile healing herb.
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