Holy basil is a powerful antioxidant with demonstrated antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties.In Ayurvedic medicine, holy basil has been used to treat a variety of conditions - everything from the common cold to bronchitis to fever to certain digestive complaints, including ulcers.The most compelling data, suggests that holy basil possesses its greatest potential in the areas of stress relief and relaxation. Multiple scientific studies examining this property of Ocimum sanctum have found that supplementation with various extracts of holy basil decrease stress hormone levels, corticosterone in particular.Lower levels of corticosterone are associated with improved mental clarity and memory, and long-term, can reduce the risk of age-related mental disorders.