For Natural Stress Reduction Holy basil, or
Tulsi as it is commonly known in India, is considered the "Queen of
Herbs," and the most sacred herb of India. Holy basil has been revered
in India for over five thousand years as a tonic for body, mind and
spirit. This amazing herb has been known to bestow a wide range of
health benefits. Offering the best of the botanical world, Planetary
Ayurvedics introduces organically cultivated Holy Basil, which contains
multiple beneficial compounds known as phyto-chemicals that assist the
body to maintain health. These compounds have strong antioxidant,
anti-inflammatory, adaptogenic and stress-reducing properties that
naturally support immune strength and overall health.
Today,
stress is known to cause a number of imbalances in the body that can
potentially compromise health. Chief among stress-induced imbalances are
elevated cortisol levels which
trigger the production of
inflammatory COX-2 enzymes. This in turn can influence blood sugar
changes and increase metabolic inflammation. Planetary Ayurvedics Holy
Basil is a rich source
of antioxidants which protect cellular health,
and its leaves contain vital elements such as rosmarinic acid and
eugenol which work together to reduce stress. Research has also shown
that the triterpenoic acids isolated from holy basil effectively improve
the body's response to stress. Holy Basil also contains ursolic acid,
which studies indicate inhibits the COX-2 enzyme. Recognizing its
profound value, Planetary Ayurvedics has included Holy Basil in its line
of herbal products in liquid caps and liquid extract form.
Stress Response and Holy BasilMost
people know the stress of modern life can trigger stress response and
have far-reaching effects on health. What is less well-known is how
herbs and botanicals can counter the negative effects of stress.
Research now shows that holy basil may reduce adverse stress response by
decreasing levels of cortisol, a hormone produced and secreted by the
adrenal glands. Nicknamed the "stress hormone," cortisol levels increase
in response to acute or chronic stress. Cortisol triggers the body to
make glucose from amino acids, which causes blood sugar to rise. Holy
basil reduces cortisol levels in times of stress, thereby helping to
stabilize blood sugar levels. Reduced cortisol levels may also mitigate
mood changes associated with stress response.
During times of
stress, the adrenal glands also release the stress hormones adrenaline
and corticosterone, which can also have adverse affects. Scientific
studies found that holy basil decreases corticosterone levels in
particular. Lower levels of corticosterone are associated with improved
mental clarity and memory, which can assist with healthy aging. Taking
Planetary Ayurvedics Holy Basil is a simple way to ease the stress of
daily life and its accompanying health challenges.
Stress and the BrainResearch
indicates that prolonged, intense stress can alter brain cells and
brain structure, which in turn may affect brain function. Resulting
effects could be mood imbalances, memory loss or impaired concentration.
Scientific research found that ingesting holy basil counteracted
stress-induced changes in critical brain neurotransmitters and enzymes.
The neurotransmitters epinephrine, norepinephrine and serotonin are used
by the body in coping with stress. Studies showed that ingesting holy
basil extract normalized quantities of epinephrine, norepinephrine and
serotonin in the body.
A Powerful AdaptogenHoly basil
can be called a premier "adaptogen," one of a select few herbs that can
normalize body processes, and strengthen immune and body functions.
Adaptogens produce a non-specific
response in the body, or an
increase in the power of resistance against multiple stressors including
physical, chemical or biological agents. They have a normalizing
influence on physiology, balancing both highs and lows. The adaptogen
holy basil supports our systemic response to physical and emotional
stress and enhances well-being.
