Basil, Holy CO2
Totally unlike the herbal basil oils normally known, India's Holy Basil has a rich, spicy aroma.
CO2 Extraction is a method for producing plant oils at low temperatures. This method uses CO2 rather than water, as in most we use is SD – aka Steam Distilled – the CO2 process draws the essential oils and additional, important ‘heavier’ therapeutic oils from the raw plant material.
Holy Basil, aka Tulsi (Ocimum Sanctum) is preeminent, and scientific research is seemingly now confirming its beneficial effects. There is mounting evidence that this plant/oil can address physical, chemical, metabolic and psychological stress through a combination of pharmacological actions. Holy Basil has been believed to protect organs and tissues against chemical stress from industrial pollutants and heavy metals, and physical stress from prolonged physical exertion, ischemia, physical restraint and exposure to cold and excessive noise. Holy Basil has also been shown to counteract metabolic stress through normalization of blood glucose, blood pressure and lipid levels, and psychological stress through positive effects on memory and cognitive function and through its anxiolytic and anti-depressant properties. Holy Basil’s reputed broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, which includes activity against a range of human and animal pathogens, suggests it can be used as a hand sanitizer, mouthwash and water purifier as well as in animal rearing, wound healing, the preservation of food stuffs and herbal raw materials and traveler's health. Cultivation of Holy Basil plants has both spiritual and practical significance that connects the grower to the creative powers of nature, and organic cultivation offers solutions for food security, rural poverty, hunger, environmental degradation and climate change. The age-old use of Tulsi in daily rituals is a perhaps a testament to Ayurvedic wisdom and provides an example of ancient knowledge offering solutions to modern problems.
Because of its chemical content, this basil may be a strong irritant and should be used in very low dilutions.
Emotionally, Holy Basil, through inhalation, may aid with anxiety, hysteria, and nervous depression. It is a stress reducer without being a sedative. Some sources indicate that, like other basils, it will enhance clarity of thought and aid memory retention.
This basil is considered a sacred herb in India, where it is planted around doorways to banish evil spirits. In various parts of the Orient it is planted around temples, and used in prayer beads.