All parts of the holy basil plant act as an adaptogen. An adaptogen is a natural substance that helps your body adapt to stress and promotes mental balance.

Holy basil is also high in antioxidants and helps your body detox. It may also prevent cancer by reducing the growth of cancerous cells.

3) Protect against infection and treat wounds

Extracts made from its leaves are thought to boost wound healing speed and strength. Holy basil is:

• antibacterial
• antiviral
• antifungal

4) Lower your blood sugar

If you have prediabetes or type 2 diabetes, all parts of the holy basil plant can help reduce your blood sugar. Human studies have shown that holy basil can help prevent symptoms of diabetes such as:

5)Lower your cholesterol

Since holy basil targets metabolic stress, it can also help with weight loss and cholesterol levels.

6) Ease inflammation and joint pain

Imagine being able to tackle stress, anxiety, and inflammation with a relaxing cup of tea made with the leaves of holy basil.

7) Protect your stomach

Holy basil can counteract the effects of stress-induced ulcers. It naturally increases your stomach’s defense by:

• decreasing stomach acid
• increasing mucus secretion
• increasing mucus cells
• extending life of mucus cells