5 Ways Holy Basil (Tulsi) Tea Supports Women’s Health
Supporting Menstruation, Menopause and Digestion
Note: Holy basil, also known as Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum), is an ancient Ayurvedic herb used for thousands of years for its medicinal properties.
This is not the culinary basil typically used in cooking.
1. Stress Regulation and Hormonal Balance
Holy basil tea helps regulate stress, which is especially important during hormonal fluctuations such as menstruation and menopause. By bringing the body into balance, it can ease mood swings, irritability, and emotional sensitivity often experienced during PMS or menopause. Lowering stress also supports the reproductive system by balancing hormones affected by stress, which can benefit menstrual regularity.
Caution: Do not use if trying to conceive or are pregnant as it could interfere with reproduction function if consumed in large doses.
2. Immune Support and Inflammation Relief
Women may experience lowered immunity during certain phases of their cycle or in menopause. Holy basil’s anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties help protect against frequent colds, flu, and infections, which can be more common during periods of stress or hormonal changes. Its anti-inflammatory effects may also help soothe digestive discomforts that often accompany menstruation.
3. Blood Sugar Regulation
Hormonal changes in menopause and PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) can lead to metabolic issues. Holy basil supports healthy blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for women with type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, or those who experience cravings and energy dips related to hormonal cycles.
4. Brain Circulation and Cognitive Function
Many women report brain fog and memory issues during menopause or premenstrual phases. Holy basil promotes brain circulation and can help improve memory, focus, and mood. It is also neuroprotective and used to support recovery after head trauma, making it helpful for mental clarity during hormonal changes.
5. Protection Against Radiation and Cellular Stress
Holy basil protects against the damaging effects of radiation (such as medical scans) and cellular stress, which is important for women undergoing mammograms, cancer therapies, or those concerned with reproductive health in the future. Its antioxidant compounds help prevent DNA damage and support overall cellular vitality. Holy basil is rich in antioxidants, which play a critical role in protecting the body from cellular damage caused by free radicals. These antioxidants help neutralize oxidative stress, which can be heightened by exposure to environmental toxins, radiation, and everyday metabolic processes.
Additional Benefits for Women
Holy basil’s energetics—pungent, sweet, and warm—make it especially supportive for women who tend to feel cold, have cold hands or feet, or experience low energy and depressive states. These symptoms often occur with slow metabolism, hypothyroidism, or chronic fatigue. By improving circulation and cellular activity, Holy basil helps the lymphatic system detoxify tissues and supports a healthy immune response.
How to Use Holy Basil Tea
· Use 1 tsp–1 Tbsp of dried herb per cup of boiling water. Steep covered for 10–15 minutes, strain, and drink.
· For iced tea, use 4 tsp–4 Tbsp in 4 cups boiling water, steep overnight in the fridge, strain, and enjoy over several days.
· Drink 2–3 cups daily for best results, especially during times of hormonal change.
Safety Considerations
· Consult your doctor if you are on medications.
· Avoid if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy, unless advised by a healthcare provider.
· Diabetics should monitor blood glucose closely.
· High doses may lower T4 thyroid hormone levels.
