Works for Me: Holy Basil for Depression and Panic Attacks

I suffer from depression and panic attacks. About a year ago, I read about holy basil and bought a bottle of the Ayurveda Organics brand. It took about a week to build up in my system. Now, I take two capsules each day and drink a cup of Tulsi-Holy Basil tea with local honey for my allergies. As long as I keep up my regimen, I never suffer from depression or have any panic attacks. It has been a miracle for me! — K.W., Taneytown, MD

Holy basil, known as tulsi (also spelled tulasi) in its native India, is a revered herb in Ayurvedic medicine. It’s been used to treat a variety of health concerns from headaches and stomachaches to inflammatory problems and common colds. This herb is classified as an adaptogen, a substance that increases the body’s resistance to internal and external stress. Therefore, it makes sense that it would relieve panic attacks and depression.

Holy basil has a long history of safety and no known drug interactions, but it may have slight blood thinning and hypoglycemic effects. As with most herbs, it is not recommended for use if you are pregnant or nursing. — JW

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