Herb & supplement monograph

Holy Basil Drug Interactions, Uses, Effectiveness, Safety & More

Medically reviewed by ·Updated July 2026
What is this page for?

First and foremost: how Holy Basil interacts with medications. The heart of this page is the interaction list — every drug Holy Basil is known to interact with, and how serious each one is.

But these pages have grown well beyond that into a full monograph — what Holy Basil is, what people use it for and how strong the evidence is, its safety and side effects, and answers to the questions we’re asked most — written and reviewed by the clinical staff at HelloPharmacist. It’s educational information from our licensed clinical databases, not medical advice, and we don’t sell or endorse products. Our editorial policy

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Holy Basil Drug Interactions: The Bottom Line

From the HelloPharmacist Editorial Team · Updated July 2026

Based on the available evidence, the overall risk of a clinically significant Holy Basil drug interaction appears low for most people, though it is worth extra care with certain closely monitored medicines. None of the listed interactions are rated major, and nearly all rest on animal or lab findings rather than confirmed effects in people.

Interactions deserving the most attention

The best-supported concern involves diabetes medications. Small human studies show holy basil can lower blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes, so adding it could push blood sugar too low in someone whose treatment is finely tuned. Animal research also suggests holy basil seed oil might slow clotting, so people taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs should watch for unusual bruising or bleeding. A similar animal-only signal suggests the seed oil could add to the sedative effect of pentobarbital.

What the rest of the list means

The long list of interacting medications should not be read as a long list of dangers. Most entries come from the same few concerns, predicted from animal or lab research on how holy basil might affect bleeding, blood sugar, or sedation. For most of these combinations, no meaningful problem has been shown in people.

Check your medications against Holy Basil

Based on HelloPharmacist’s Holy Basil interaction data and reviewed under our editorial standards.

Interaction report

Drugs that interact with Holy Basil

212 medications have a known interaction with Holy Basil, graded by severity. Select any drug for the full evidence-based detail.

2,830 drugs
AbciximabReoPro
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, holy basil seed oil might increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Holy Basil + Abciximab interaction
AbrocitinibCibinqo
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, holy basil seed oil might increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Holy Basil + Abrocitinib interaction Abrocitinib drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AcarboseGlucobay, Prandase, Precose
Moderate Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, holy basil might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.

Read the full Holy Basil + Acarbose interaction Acarbose drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AcenocoumarolSintrom
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, holy basil seed oil might increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Holy Basil + Acenocoumarol interaction
Acetaminophen, AspirinGemnisyn
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, holy basil seed oil might increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Holy Basil + Acetaminophen, Aspirin interaction
Acetaminophen, Aspirin, CaffeineExcedrin, Excedrin Extra Strength, Excedrin Migraine
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, holy basil seed oil might increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Holy Basil + Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Caffeine interaction
Acetaminophen, IbuprofenCombogesic
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, holy basil seed oil might increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Holy Basil + Acetaminophen, Ibuprofen interaction
AcetohexamideDymelor
Moderate Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, holy basil might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.

Read the full Holy Basil + Acetohexamide interaction
Acetylsalicylic AcidEntrophen
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, holy basil seed oil might increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Holy Basil + Acetylsalicylic Acid interaction Acetylsalicylic Acid drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AlbiglutideTanzeum
Moderate Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, holy basil might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.

Read the full Holy Basil + Albiglutide interaction
AlogliptinNesina
Moderate Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, holy basil might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.

Read the full Holy Basil + Alogliptin interaction Alogliptin drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Alogliptin, MetforminKazano
Moderate Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, holy basil might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.

Read the full Holy Basil + Alogliptin, Metformin interaction
Alogliptin, PioglitazoneOseni
Moderate Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, holy basil might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.

Read the full Holy Basil + Alogliptin, Pioglitazone interaction
Alteplase, TpaActilyse, Activase
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, holy basil seed oil might increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Holy Basil + Alteplase, Tpa interaction
Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium HydroxideAscriptin Codeine #2
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, holy basil seed oil might increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Holy Basil + Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium Hydroxide interaction
Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Magnesium HydroxideAscriptin
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, holy basil seed oil might increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Holy Basil + Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Magnesium Hydroxide interaction Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Magnesium Hydroxide drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Anacaulase-bcdbNexoBrid
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, holy basil seed oil might increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Holy Basil + Anacaulase-bcdb interaction
AnagrelideAgrylin
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, holy basil seed oil might increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Holy Basil + Anagrelide interaction Anagrelide drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AnisindioneMiradon
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, holy basil seed oil might increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Holy Basil + Anisindione interaction
Antidiabetes, Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 (dpp-iv) InhibitorGlyxambi
Moderate Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, holy basil might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.

Read the full Holy Basil + Antidiabetes, Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 (dpp-iv) Inhibitor interaction
Antithrombin IiiThrombate III
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, holy basil seed oil might increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Holy Basil + Antithrombin Iii interaction
ApixabanEliquis
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, holy basil seed oil might increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Holy Basil + Apixaban interaction Apixaban drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
ArgatrobanArgatroban
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, holy basil seed oil might increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Holy Basil + Argatroban interaction
AspirinAngettes 75, ASA, Asaphen, Aspirin, Caprin, Cartia +8 more
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, holy basil seed oil might increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Holy Basil + Aspirin interaction Aspirin drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Aspirin, Aluminum Hydroxide, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium HydroxideAscriptin Codeine #3
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, holy basil seed oil might increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Holy Basil + Aspirin, Aluminum Hydroxide, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium Hydroxide interaction
Aspirin, ButalbitalAxotal
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, holy basil seed oil might increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Holy Basil + Aspirin, Butalbital interaction
Aspirin, Butalbital, CaffeineFiorinal
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, holy basil seed oil might increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Holy Basil + Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine interaction Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine PhosphateFiorinal w/ Codeine
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, holy basil seed oil might increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Holy Basil + Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine Phosphate interaction
Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine, PhenacetinMarnal
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, holy basil seed oil might increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Holy Basil + Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine, Phenacetin interaction
Aspirin, CaffeineAnacin
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, holy basil seed oil might increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Holy Basil + Aspirin, Caffeine interaction
Read The List Like a Pharmacist

What Severity, Likelihood & Evidence Mean

Severity — How Serious It Can Be

  • Major. Clinically significant; generally best avoided, or used only under direct professional supervision.
  • Moderate. May need monitoring, a dose adjustment, or separating the times you take each one.
  • Minor. Generally not clinically significant, but still worth noting and mentioning to your pharmacist.
  • No known interaction. Checked against our sources with nothing documented — not the same as proven safety.

Likelihood — How Well It’s Documented

  • Likely. Well-controlled human studies have demonstrated the likely existence of this interaction
  • Probable. Interaction has not been documented in well-controlled studies, however, the interaction has been demonstrated in some small human studies or in controlled animal studies in conjunction with multiple case reports.
  • Possible. Interaction has been documented in animal or in lab research, or the interaction has been documented in humans but is limited to case reports or conflicting clinical research exists
  • Unlikely. Interaction has been demonstrated in animal or in lab research but has been shown not to occur in humans.

Where This Data Comes From

  • Interaction records are evidence-graded and sourced from the Natural Medicines database (TRC Healthcare), the same reference used by pharmacists and hospitals.
  • Each drug listed above links to the full report for that exact Holy Basil combination — clinical detail, likelihood, evidence level, and citations.
  • Content is reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists — see our data sources and editorial standards.
The big picture

The kinds of drugs Holy Basil affects

Every type of medication (drug category) Holy Basil is known to interact with. Open any category for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

All 3 drug categories Holy Basil interacts with
Anticoagulant/antiplatelet DrugsAntidiabetes DrugsPentobarbital (nembutal)
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, holy basil seed oil might increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Animal research shows that holy basil seed oil can prolong bleeding time, possibly due to inhibition of platelet aggregation. However, it is not known if this occurs in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, holy basil might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Small clinical studies show that taking holy basil can decrease fasting blood glucose and other measures of glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Pentobarbital (Nembutal)

Theoretically, holy basil seed oil might increase the sedative effects of pentobarbital.
Animal research shows that holy basil seed oil increases pentobarbitone-induced sleeping time. However, it is not known if this occurs in humans or if this applies to other barbiturates or sedatives.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Monograph

Holy Basil: Uses, Safety & Side Effects

Medically reviewed by · Reviewed July 2026 ·
The bottom line

Holy basil (tulsi) is a traditional Ayurvedic herb most often used today for stress and general wellness, but the human evidence is mostly small and preliminary. It is generally well tolerated by most adults, but it should be avoided in pregnancy and used cautiously by anyone with health conditions or taking medications. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor before starting it.

Holy Basil
Scientific name
Ocimum tenuiflorum
Family
Lamiaceae
Part used
Leaves, seeds, and essential oil
Common forms
Tea, capsules, tablets, powder, liquid extract, essential oil
People commonly use it for
  • Stress and anxiety
  • Blood sugar support
  • Respiratory complaints
  • General immune and wellness support
  • Inflammation

Popular and traditional uses — not proof it works. See “Uses & effectiveness” below for the evidence.

Safety at a glance
OverallUse caution

Generally well tolerated short-term in adults, but high-quality long-term safety data are limited.

PregnancyPossibly Unsafe

When used in high doses during pregnancy or when trying to conceive. Animal research suggests that relatively high doses of holy basil extract (200 mg...

Read the full pregnancy detail
BreastfeedingPossibly Unsafe

When used in high doses during pregnancy or when trying to conceive. Animal research suggests that relatively high doses of holy basil extract (200 mg...

Read the full breastfeeding detail

Pregnancy & breastfeeding ratings are from Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center). Safety guidance is general; always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor for your situation.

Jump to a section

Overview

Holy basil, often called tulsi, is a fragrant herb that has been used in Ayurvedic medicine in India for hundreds of years. In Hindi, tulsi means "the incomparable one," and the plant is considered sacred in many Hindu traditions. It is a leafy plant in the mint family, with small green or purplish leaves and a slightly bitter, spicy, clove-like aroma.

Holy basil grows widely in India and other warm parts of Asia. People use it as a tea, in capsules or tablets, as a powdered leaf, as a liquid extract, and as an essential oil.

It is worth noting that holy basil is different from the common culinary basil used in cooking. They belong to the same plant family but are distinct plants with different flavors and traditional uses.

How it works

Holy basil contains several plant compounds that may be biologically active, including eugenol, ursolic acid, rosmarinic acid, and various antioxidants. Researchers think these may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

It is sometimes described as an adaptogen, meaning it is thought to help the body handle stress. Some lab and animal studies suggest it may affect stress hormones, blood sugar, and inflammation pathways.

Keep in mind that most of this information comes from laboratory and animal research. How these effects translate to people taking holy basil is still not well understood.

Effectiveness

Does Holy Basil work?

Here’s what the research actually shows for each use — graded by Natural Medicines and reviewed by .

Evidence overview · 18 uses evaluated
18 Insufficient evidence
How to read these evidence grades

Natural Medicines’ 7-point scale. We show each rating’s label word-for-word.

1EffectiveStrong, consistent evidence it works.
2Likely EffectiveGood evidence, though not yet conclusive.
3Possibly EffectiveSome evidence suggests a benefit.
4Possibly IneffectiveSome evidence it may not help.
5Likely IneffectiveFairly strong evidence it doesn’t help.
6IneffectiveStrong evidence it doesn’t work.
7Insufficient Reliable Evidence to RateToo little research to say either way.

For Holy Basil, current evidence isn’t strong enough to rate any specific use. The conditions it has been studied for are listed below.

Also studied for 18 conditions — evidence insufficient to rate
Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Aging
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral holy basil for aging, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of holy basil for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Asthma
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral holy basil for asthma, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of holy basil for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Dental plaque
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Small clinical studies suggest that topical use of holy basil mouthwash, gel, or toothpaste may modestly reduce the severity of dental plaque.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Diabetes
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Small clinical studies suggest that oral holy basil may modestly improve glycemic control in patients with diabetes.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Dyspepsia
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral holy basil for dyspepsia, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of holy basil for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral holy basil is beneficial in patients with GAD.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Gingivitis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Small clinical studies suggest that topical use of holy basil mouthwash or toothpaste may modestly improve gingivitis.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Headache
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral holy basil for headache, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of holy basil for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Hepatitis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral holy basil for hepatitis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of holy basil for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Hypercholesterolemia
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral holy basil for hypercholesterolemia, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of holy basil for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Hypertension
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral holy basil for hypertension, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of holy basil for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Insect repellent
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using topical holy basil as an insect repellent, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of holy basil for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Insomnia
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral holy basil is beneficial for sleep problems.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Obesity
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral holy basil is beneficial in overweight or obese patients.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Oral submucous fibrosis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if topical holy basil paste is beneficial for oral submucous fibrosis.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Respiratory tract infections
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral holy basil for respiratory tract infections, including bronchitis, common cold, influenza, and tuberculosis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of holy basil for these conditions.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Stress
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral holy basil is beneficial in patients with stress.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Tinea corporis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using topical holy basil for tinea corporis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of holy basil for this purpose.

Source & disclaimer. Effectiveness ratings and evidence summaries are provided by Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center) and shown as licensed. Where Natural Medicines hasn’t rated a use, HelloPharmacist’s pharmacists may add their own reviewed rating and evidence (each such entry is labeled). This is educational information, not medical advice — talk with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or changing a supplement.

Safety & precautions

For most healthy adults, holy basil appears to be reasonably well tolerated when used short-term in typical amounts. However, high-quality long-term safety data are limited.

People with diabetes or low blood sugar should be cautious, since holy basil may lower blood sugar. It may also have effects on blood clotting, so people with bleeding disorders or who are scheduled for surgery should be careful and tell their healthcare team.

Pregnancy: Avoid holy basil during pregnancy. Some animal studies have raised concerns, and human safety has not been established. Breastfeeding: There is not enough reliable information, so it is best to avoid it while breastfeeding. Always check with your pharmacist or doctor before using holy basil, especially if you have a health condition or take medications.

Side effects

Holy basil is usually well tolerated, but it can cause side effects in some people. Reported effects include nausea, stomach upset, and diarrhea.

Because it may lower blood sugar, watch for symptoms of low blood sugar such as shakiness, sweating, or dizziness, especially if you have diabetes. As with any herbal product, allergic reactions are possible.

If you notice unusual symptoms after taking holy basil, stop using it and contact your healthcare provider.

Holy Basil: Reported Adverse Effects

Documented safety reports on Holy Basil from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database, shown word-for-word from the licensed record.

Orally and topically, holy basil extract seems to be well tolerated.

Most Common Adverse Effects:

Orally: Loose stools and nausea.

Topically: Bitter taste with oral application.

Reports by condition
Nausea and vomiting Gastrointestinal

Orally, two out of 24 participants taking capsules containing holy basil extract in one clinical study experienced nausea or loose stools.

Topically, holy basil mouthwash has been reported to cause a bitter taste in clinical trials.

  1. Mondal, S., Varma, S., Bamola, V. D., Naik, S. N., Mirdha, B. R., Padhi, M. M., Mehta, N., and Mahapatra, S. C. Double-blinded randomized controlled trial for immunomodulatory effects of Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum Linn.) leaf extract on healthy volunteers. J
  2. Agarwal, P. and Nagesh, L. Comparative evaluation of efficacy of 0.2% Chlorhexidine, Listerine and Tulsi extract mouth rinses on salivary Streptococcus mutans count of high school children--RCT. Contemp.Clin Trials 2011;32(6):802-808.
DISCLAIMER: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.

Adverse-effects data: Natural Medicines, Therapeutic Research Center

Dosing

There is no well-established standard dose of holy basil. Studies have used different forms and amounts, so it is hard to recommend a single reliable dose.

If you choose to use it, follow the directions on the product label and do not exceed the recommended amount. Because supplements are not tightly regulated, product strength and quality can vary.

Talk with your pharmacist or doctor before starting holy basil, especially if you take other medications or have a medical condition. They can help you decide whether it is appropriate and what amount may be reasonable.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Holy Basil & Pregnancy

Possibly Unsafe

When used in high doses during pregnancy or when trying to conceive. Animal research suggests that relatively high doses of holy basil extract (200 mg/kg) may reduce implantation rate when used for one week, while long-term use of higher doses (2-4 grams/kg) may decrease the number of full-term pregnancies. There is insufficient reliable information available regarding the safety of holy basil during lactation; avoid using.

  1. Vohora, S. B., Garg, S. K., and Chaudhury, R. R. Antifertility screening of plants. 3. Effect of six indigenous plants on early pregnancy in albino rats. Indian J Med Res 1969;57(5):893-899.
  2. Khanna S, Gupta SR, Grover JK. Effect of long term feeding of tulsi (Ocimum sanctum Linn) on reproductive performance of adult albino rats. Indian J Exp Biol 1986;24(5):302-4.

Holy Basil & Breastfeeding

Possibly Unsafe

When used in high doses during pregnancy or when trying to conceive. Animal research suggests that relatively high doses of holy basil extract (200 mg/kg) may reduce implantation rate when used for one week, while long-term use of higher doses (2-4 grams/kg) may decrease the number of full-term pregnancies. There is insufficient reliable information available regarding the safety of holy basil during lactation; avoid using.

  1. Vohora, S. B., Garg, S. K., and Chaudhury, R. R. Antifertility screening of plants. 3. Effect of six indigenous plants on early pregnancy in albino rats. Indian J Med Res 1969;57(5):893-899.
  2. Khanna S, Gupta SR, Grover JK. Effect of long term feeding of tulsi (Ocimum sanctum Linn) on reproductive performance of adult albino rats. Indian J Exp Biol 1986;24(5):302-4.
DISCLAIMER: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.

© 2026 Therapeutic Research Center

Pregnancy & lactation ratings: Natural Medicines, Therapeutic Research Center

References & further reading

The 8 references that drive our Holy Basil monograph and interaction data, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Citations with a link open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

  1. Agrawal P, Rai V, Singh RB. Randomized placebo-controlled, single blind trial of holy basil leaves in patients with noninsulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther 1996;34:406-9.
  2. Sakina MR, Dandiya PC, Hamdard ME, Hameed A. Preliminary psychopharmacological evaluation of Ocimum sanctum leaf extract. J Ethnopharmacol 1990;28:143-50. PubMed
  3. Singh S, Rehan HM, Majumdar DK. Effect of Ocimum sanctum fixed oil on blood pressure, blood clotting time and pentobarbitone-induced sleeping time. J Ethnopharmacol 2001;78:139-43. PubMed
  4. Mondal, S., Varma, S., Bamola, V. D., Naik, S. N., Mirdha, B. R., Padhi, M. M., Mehta, N., and Mahapatra, S. C. Double-blinded randomized controlled trial for immunomodulatory effects of Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum Linn.) leaf extract on healthy volunteers. J PubMed
  5. Agarwal, P. and Nagesh, L. Comparative evaluation of efficacy of 0.2% Chlorhexidine, Listerine and Tulsi extract mouth rinses on salivary Streptococcus mutans count of high school children--RCT. Contemp.Clin Trials 2011;32(6):802-808. PubMed
  6. Vohora, S. B., Garg, S. K., and Chaudhury, R. R. Antifertility screening of plants. 3. Effect of six indigenous plants on early pregnancy in albino rats. Indian J Med Res 1969;57(5):893-899.
  7. Khanna S, Gupta SR, Grover JK. Effect of long term feeding of tulsi (Ocimum sanctum Linn) on reproductive performance of adult albino rats. Indian J Exp Biol 1986;24(5):302-4.
  8. Somasundaram G, Manimekalai K, Salwe KJ, Pandiamunian J. Evaluation of the antidiabetic effect of Ocimum sanctum in type 2 diabetes patients. Int J Life Sci Pharma Res 2012;2(3):75-81.
Keep reading

This information is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always check with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or combining supplements and medications.

Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.

DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.

© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC

Brand directory

Brands that make products with Holy Basil

353 brands in our database make a supplement containing Holy Basil.

Product directory

Supplement products with Holy Basil

1,921 products in our database contain Holy Basil. Open any to see its full ingredient list and every drug interaction we check.

#Shatter SX-7 Blue Raspberry Explosion by MuscleTech Powder 6.12 oz. · 174 Gram(s) View ingredients & interactions #Shatter SX-7 Blue Raspberry Explosion by MuscleTech Powder 10.27 oz. · 291 Gram(s) View ingredients & interactions #Shatter SX-7 Fruit Punch Blast by MuscleTech Powder 10.27 oz. · 291 Gram(s) View ingredients & interactions #Shatter SX-7 Fruit Punch Blast by MuscleTech Powder 6.12 oz. · 174 Gram(s) View ingredients & interactions #Shatter SX-7 Icy Pink Lemonade by MuscleTech Powder 6.12 oz. · 174 Gram(s) View ingredients & interactions #Shatter SX-7 Icy Pink Lemonade by MuscleTech Powder 10.27 oz. · 291 Gram(s) View ingredients & interactions #Shatter SX-7 Watermelon Fusion by MuscleTech Powder 6.12 oz. · 174 Gram(s) View ingredients & interactions #Shatter SX-7 Watermelon Fusion by MuscleTech Powder 10.27 oz. · 291 Gram(s) View ingredients & interactions 100% Natural Stress Regress by Whole Body Research Capsule 60 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Active Adrenal by Rejuvica Health Liquid 2 Fluid Ounce(s) · 59 Milliliter(s) View ingredients & interactions Active-Male Brain Awake MAX3 + Nitric Oxide Booster by Irwin Naturals Softgel Capsule 60 Liquid Soft-Gel(s) View ingredients & interactions ACTS by TLS Weight Loss Solution Capsule 60 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Adapto-Gen by Herb Stop Capsule 300 Veggie Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Adaptocrine (K-2) by Apex Energetics Capsule 90 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Adaptogen Chocolate Dream by MN Morphogen Nutrition Powder 7.71 Ounce(s) · 216 Gram(s) View ingredients & interactions Adaptogen Stress Relief by PureMax Labs YummyVite Capsule 60 Vegetable Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Adaptogen Vanilla Cream by MN Morphogen Nutrition Powder 7.71 oz · 216 g View ingredients & interactions Adaptogen+ Lean by Purely Inspired Capsule 60 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Adaptogenesis by Red Moon Herbs Liquid 1 Fluid Ounce(s) · 30 mL View ingredients & interactions Adaptogenic Potion by SuperSmart Liquid 120 mL View ingredients & interactions Adaptoplex by Natural Healthy Concepts Capsule 120 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions AdaptoTrax by VitaMonk Capsule 60 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Adrenal by RidgeCrest Herbals Capsule 60 Vegan Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Adrenal by Garden of Life MyKind Organics Tablet Or Pill 120 Vegan Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Holy Basil: Common Questions

What is Holy Basil used for, and does it work?
People use Holy Basil for a range of reasons, but according to the Natural Medicines database the current clinical evidence is insufficient to confirm it works for the specific conditions it has been studied for. See the graded list on this page, and talk to your pharmacist or doctor before relying on it for any condition.
Does Holy Basil interact with prescription medications?
Yes. We list 212 medications with a known interaction with Holy Basil. Use the checker above to see how Holy Basil interacts with a specific drug.
How are Holy Basil interactions rated?
Each interaction is graded major, moderate, or minor based on how clinically significant it is and the strength of the evidence behind it. Major interactions are the most serious and are best avoided, or used only under close professional supervision.
Is it safe to take Holy Basil with my medications?
It depends on the specific medication. Some combinations are fine, while others call for monitoring, timing changes, or should be avoided. Check your exact drug above and confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or changing anything.
Where does this Holy Basil interaction information come from?
Our interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database — an evidence-graded reference for vitamins, herbs, and supplements — and is reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists, who may add clinical context.
What is Holy Basil used for?
People most commonly use Holy Basil (tulsi) for stress, general wellness, and immune support, and traditionally for respiratory and blood sugar concerns. The scientific evidence for these uses is limited and mostly preliminary.
Is Holy Basil the same as the basil I cook with?
No. Holy Basil and culinary basil are related plants in the same family, but they are different. Holy Basil has a more spicy, clove-like flavor and is used mainly as an herbal supplement rather than as a cooking herb.
Is Holy Basil safe to take during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
It is best to avoid Holy Basil if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Some animal studies raise safety concerns, and there is not enough reliable human safety information.
Does Holy Basil have side effects?
It is usually well tolerated, but some people may have nausea, stomach upset, or diarrhea. It may also lower blood sugar, so people with diabetes should be cautious and monitor for symptoms of low blood sugar.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

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Products that contain Holy Basil

A rotating sample of real supplements in our database that list Holy Basil — open any to see its full ingredients and every drug interaction we check.

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