Holy Basil
1 food contains this ingredient
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About Holy Basil
Holy Basil, also called Tulsi, is an Ayurvedic herb added to some pet foods and supplements as a botanical rather than a nutrient source.
Holy Basil (Tulsi) is used in pet food as a functional botanical and adaptogen—an herbal additive intended for antioxidant, anti‑inflammatory and mild stress‑modulating effects rather than as a primary nutrient or protein source. While traditional use and some preliminary data suggest potential immune‑support and calming benefits for dogs (and possibly cats), clinical evidence in companion animals is limited, doses are not standardized, and concentrated extracts or essential oils may cause sensitivities or interact with medications, so veterinary guidance is recommended.
Related ingredients
- Derived from
- leaves of Ocimum tenuiflorum (Ocimum sanctum)
- Primary role
- botanical additive marketed for adaptogenic and antioxidant properties
Why it's used
Holy basil has a long history of traditional use in human Ayurvedic medicine, and formulators include it in pet products for its reputed antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and stress-modulating properties. A systematic review of human clinical literature reports multiple therapeutic actions studied in vitro and in animal models, but comparable controlled research specifically in dogs and cats is limited.
Common concerns
- Limited companion-animal evidence Most efficacy data comes from human studies or traditional use accounts rather than controlled trials in dogs or cats, and dosing in pet products is not standardized.
- Effect on blood clotting Holy basil has been associated with slowed blood clotting, a consideration for animals with bleeding disorders or those on anticoagulant medication, and something to flag to a veterinarian before use.
Also relevant
Concentrated extracts or essential oil forms of holy basil are more likely to produce noticeable effects than the small amounts typically found in commercial pet food formulations.
Common Questions
What category is Holy Basil?
Holy Basil is categorized as a herb ingredient in the KibbleLab database.
Is Holy Basil part of an allergen group?
No allergen group is linked to Holy Basil in the KibbleLab database.
Which foods contain Holy Basil?
1 food in the KibbleLab database contain Holy Basil, including Wellness.
Foods with Holy Basil
Alphabetical by brand. Scores run 0 to 10, higher is better, on published veterinary science.
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