Interactions on record — worth a quick check against your medications. Based on 1 of 2 ingredients. Check your meds →
Dietary supplement

Holy Basil Leaf Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Gaia Herbs

Holy Basil Leaf label
See full label image
Capsule Category: Botanical
Most serious interaction: Moderate
Clinical methodology reviewed by · Updated Sep 30, 2026 · Label data from the NIH DSLD
What is this page for?

First and foremost: checking Holy Basil Leaf against your medications. The heart of this page is the interaction checker and the full interaction report — how this product’s ingredients may interact with prescription and over-the-counter medicines you may be taking.

Around that, we add a pharmacist’s high-level view of the product as a whole — what’s inside, the evidence for its stated use, how transparent the label is, and what safety data exists — so you can see the full picture in one place. It’s educational information from our licensed clinical databases and the clinical staff at HelloPharmacist — not medical advice — and we don’t sell or endorse products. Our editorial policy

The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Moderate

Holy Basil Leaf is a dietary supplement by Gaia Herbs with 2 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for stress and anxiety, blood sugar support, respiratory complaints.Based on those ingredients, 212 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Holy Basil Leaf Extract. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

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Check Your Meds Against Holy Basil Leaf by Gaia Herbs

Ask about any prescription or over-the-counter medication and we check it for interactions with Holy Basil Leaf by Gaia Herbs — and tell you which ingredient is responsible.

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HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Holy Basil Leaf by Gaia Herbs

Our pharmacy team’s full take, with four database checks built into the cards below — a summary of what is known, not a grade of the product itself.

From our pharmacy team — supplement deep dive

Generated from HelloPharmacist’s pharmacist-curated databases and editorial rules · Last generated Oct 1, 2026

What’s inside

Partial disclosure
Ingredient Transparency · database check
Partial

Most active ingredients list an amount, but at least one is hidden in a blend or missing.

Why this rating?
  • The label discloses an exact amount for 1 of its 2 active ingredients.
  • “Proprietary Extract Blend” is a proprietary blend — the label gives one combined amount (363 mg) without saying how much of each component you get.
  • “Holy Basil Leaf Supercritical Extract” is listed as a grouped ingredient — the label doesn't break down how much of each component you get.

This product contains 2 active ingredients: a proprietary extract blend and holy basil leaf supercritical extract—both forms of holy basil. It also includes several inactive ingredients (glycerin, sunflower lecithin, water, hypromellose, and olive oil) that serve as the capsule base and preservatives.

Does it work?

Not established
Evidence for Intended Use · database check
By FDA rules, dietary supplements can’t claim to treat, cure, or prevent disease — so labels speak in careful marketing language. We discern each product’s intended use from its name, label claims, and label statements, then grade the clinical evidence for that use. How these ratings are computed
Not established

The graded evidence we hold for these ingredients covers different conditions than the ones this product is marketed for, so there's no established rating for its stated use — see Holy Basil's own graded uses on its monograph.

Why this rating?
  • The label markets this product for: stress support and emotional well-being.
  • We looked for evidence on: Stress, Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), Insomnia, mood, emotional resilience.
  • The closest evidence on file: Holy Basil is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Holy Basil is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Insomnia, Stress.

The evidence we hold for holy basil doesn't establish that it works for any of the conditions it's marketed for. The data rates it as having insufficient reliable evidence for generalized anxiety disorder, asthma, headache, respiratory tract infections, dental plaque, and diabetes.

That doesn't mean it doesn't work—it means the high-quality studies needed to prove it haven't been done yet or aren't in our database.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Holy Basil

How safe is it?

Well-documented data
Safety Information · database check
Well characterized

Adverse-effect, pregnancy, and general safety data are on file for most of these ingredients.

Why this rating?
  • We hold adverse-effect (side-effect) data for 1 of the 1 matched ingredient.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 1 of 1.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 1 of 1.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Holy basil extract is generally well tolerated short-term in adults, but long-term safety data are limited. The most common side effects from oral use are loose stools and nausea—a small number of trial participants reported these.

Topically (in mouthwash), it can leave a bitter taste. The safety data advises against using holy basil during pregnancy and while breastfeeding because animal data raise concerns and human safety hasn't been established for these populations.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Holy Basil

Meds to double-check

Moderate interaction found
Known Interaction Concern · database check
Moderate identified

The most serious documented interaction for these ingredients is Moderate. Check your medications for a personalized result.

Why this rating?
  • 1 of the 1 matched ingredient can interact with medications — Holy Basil.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Moderate.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs; diabetes medications.
  • For scale: 212 individual medications appear in the full list. A big number alone doesn't make a product dangerous — what matters is whether YOUR medication is on it, so run yours through the interaction checker on this page.

Before taking this product, double-check with your doctor or pharmacist if you use blood thinners or antiplatelet drugs (like aspirin, warfarin, or clopidogrel)—holy basil may raise bleeding risk. Also flag any diabetes medications you take, as holy basil can lower blood sugar.

If you take pentobarbital or other sedating drugs, confirm it's safe to combine them.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glancePartially disclosed formula with no established evidence rating for its marketed use. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.

Holy Basil Leaf by Gaia Herbs may be worth considering if you're interested in traditional wellness support, but the evidence for specific health claims isn't solid yet. If you take blood thinners, diabetes medications, or sedating drugs, check your exact medications with your doctor or pharmacist before starting this—the interaction potential is real, even if unproven in humans.

Pregnant or nursing? Skip it until you've talked it over.

If you're generally healthy and medication-free, short-term use appears tolerable, but talk with your pharmacist about whether it's right for you.

Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI

Assessment coverage: 1 of 2 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated May 23, 2024.

This Scorecard evaluates available label information, ingredient evidence, and known medication-safety considerations. It does not independently verify product identity, purity, potency, contamination, or manufacturing quality. How these ratings are computed

At a glance

General information

Key facts about Holy Basil Leaf, straight from the product label.

Brand Gaia Herbs
Net contents 60 Vegan Liquid Phyto-Cap(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD May 23, 2024
DSLD ID 309563
Product type Botanical
Supplement form Capsule
Dietary claims / uses All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Vegan, Vegetarian, Adult (18 - 50 Years), Women (not pregnant or lactating), Gluten Free, Dairy Free
From the label
Everything in this section is reproduced from the manufacturer’s own product label — it’s the label speaking, not HelloPharmacist. We show it so you can see exactly what the maker states; we don’t verify or endorse those statements.

Supplement Facts

The label details for Holy Basil Leaf by Gaia Herbs, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.

Supplement Facts

Daily Value (DV) Target Group(s):
Adults and children 4 or more years of age
Minimum serving Sizes:
1 Capsule(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
1 Capsule(s)
Servings per container
60
IngredientAmount% DV
Total Carbohydrates1 Gram(s)1%
Proprietary Extract Blend363 mg--
Eugenol8.5 mg--
Holy Basil Leaf Extract0 NP--
Holy Basil Leaf Supercritical Extract0 NP--

Other ingredients: Glycerin, Sunflower Lecithin, Water, Hypromellose, Olive Oil

Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.

Label statements
These statements are the manufacturer’s wording, reproduced from the product label — the label is saying it, not HelloPharmacist. We don’t verify or endorse them.
Formulation

Amazing adaptogens Apoptogenic herbs get their name from their ability to help you adapt to and find balance amidst life's challenges. They read your body's needs in tense times and smooth out its stress response cycle so you can cope in a healthy way. Stress & nervous system response. Hypothalamus Pituitary Adrenals Vagus nerve

The Gaia Difference Sustainably sourced Extracted without harsh solvents 6 distinct quality tests

Vegan

Gluten free

Stress support Promotes emotional well-being & supports a positive mood Concentrated formula Full spectrum Supercritical extract

Natural separation may occur. This does not affect product quality.

General Statements

Discover our guiding truths at: Facebook Instagram gaiaherbs.com @gaiaherbs

Gaia Herbs delivers unprecedented traceability by screening every product and sharing the results online. See for yourself, and learn more about your herbs, by entering the unique ID # below at meetyourherbs.com. New look same formula

Seals/Symbols

Certified B Corporation Vegan

FDA Statement of Identity

Herbal Supplement

Formula

Each capsule contains 2,650 mg dry herb equivalent.

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Suggested use Adults take 1 capsule 2 times daily with meals.

Precautions

Not for use during pregnancy or lactation. If you have a medical condition or take medications, please consult with your doctor before use.

Store away from children.

Use only as directed only label. Safety-sealed for your protection.

Storage

Keep bottle capped at all times and store in a cool, dry place.

FDA Disclaimer Statement

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Brand IP Statement(s)

Gaia Herbs EST 1987

Is this label outdated? Report a formula or label change and our pharmacy team will review it.

See for yourself

Holy Basil Leaf by Gaia Herbs label

The label scan from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database. Tap to enlarge.

Holy Basil Leaf label

Label images are published by the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database for the version of this product on file. Always read your actual product label.

View the full label (PDF)
What’s inside

The Ingredients in Holy Basil Leaf by Gaia Herbs

These are the 2 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.

Serving size1 Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule Servings per container60 Amounts shown are per serving.

Most supplement products combine several ingredients, and a medication can interact with the product through any one of them. Each ingredient below shows whether it has known drug interactions.

Proprietary Extract Blend

363 mg per serving

Other (inactive) ingredients: Glycerin, Sunflower Lecithin, Water, Hypromellose, Olive Oil. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Holy Basil Leaf by Gaia Herbs Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Holy Basil Leaf?

Ask about interactions with your drugs in plain English — “Can I take it with lisinopril?” — and we find you the answer in seconds, ingredient by ingredient.

 Go to the checker
212Drugs
212 Moderate

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Holy Basil Leaf Extract 212

Individual Drug Interactions

The ingredients in Holy Basil Leaf interact with 212 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.

1 of the 2 ingredients in Holy Basil Leaf interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Holy Basil Leaf Extract

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Holy Basil Leaf with known interactions, here are the types of medications it can affect. Open any type for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

Holy Basil Leaf Extract3 drug types · 212 drugs

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
Holy Basil Leaf Extract full monograph & interactions
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Holy Basil Leaf, from the product label.

Gaia Herbs

See all Gaia Herbs products
Name
Gaia Herbs, Inc.
Street Address
101 Gaia Herbs Dr.
City
Brevard
State
NC
ZipCode
28712
Web Address
GaiaHerbs.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Holy Basil Leaf by Gaia Herbs: Common Questions

Does Holy Basil Leaf by Gaia Herbs interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Holy Basil Leaf has a known interaction with 212 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Holy Basil Leaf contains 2 active ingredients, and an interaction can come from any of them. We check every ingredient, combine the results into one list per medication, and show which ingredient and mechanism is responsible.
Where does this information come from?
The product label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD); the interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database and reviewed by HelloPharmacist pharmacists.
Can I take this if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
No. The safety data advises against using holy basil during pregnancy because animal research raises concerns and human safety hasn't been established. The same goes for breastfeeding. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about safer options.
What side effects should I expect?
Most people tolerate it well. The most common side effects are loose stools and nausea—a small number of trial participants experienced these. If you use a holy basil mouthwash, you might notice a bitter taste.
How long has this been studied?
Short-term safety in adults looks good, but high-quality long-term data are limited. We don't have enough research yet to say how it holds up over weeks or months.
Does holy basil actually work for anxiety or diabetes?
The evidence we hold doesn't establish that it works for either one. Both are rated as having insufficient reliable evidence. That means we need better studies—not that it definitely doesn't work, just that we can't say it does yet.
What is eugenol, and does it interact with anything?
Eugenol is a natural compound in holy basil. We don't have interaction data for it, so we can't tell you whether it combines safely with your medications—one more reason to check with your pharmacist before you start.

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

Not sure if Holy Basil Leaf is safe with your meds?

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Label information is sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database and reflects the product version on file; always read your actual product label. This page is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before combining supplements and medications.

Holy Basil Leaf label
Go deeper

The Full Monographs Behind Holy Basil Leaf’s Ingredients

Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.

Herb & supplement monograph

Holy Basil

Interacts with 212 drugs

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 tolerat...

Read the full Holy Basil monograph →
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Holy Basil Leaf's label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database; the ingredient interaction data is from the Natural Medicines database, reviewed by our pharmacists.

Content is written and reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists. See our data sources and editorial standards for how this information is built and checked.

The 8 references behind this product’s interaction data

Every citation that drives the interaction findings for this product’s ingredients, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Open an ingredient to browse its citations — links open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

Holy Basil 8 references
  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.

See these in context on the Holy Basil monograph →

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

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