Is holy basil the same as basil? A breakdown of differences

Holy Basil vs. Basil: What’s the Difference?

Basil and tulsi are often confused with one another. It makes sense—after all, tulsi is also known as "holy basil." But despite the shared name, these are two very different herbs. They come from the same plant family (Lamiaceae), but they have distinct botanical traits, cultural roles, and everyday uses.

The most important difference? While both are beneficial to your health, tulsi is mainly used for medicinal purposes, not cooking. In other words, you probably don’t want to sprinkle holy basil on your pizza or toss it into a caprese salad.

That said, tulsi is a remarkable herb with powerful wellness benefits—and it absolutely deserves a place in your herbal routine.

In this article, we’ll look at the key differences between tulsi and common basil, including their flavors, uses, health benefits, and cultural importance.

What Is Tulsi (Holy Basil)?

Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum), also called holy basil, is a sacred plant in India and Southeast Asia. In Hindu tradition, tulsi is believed to embody the goddess Tulsi. It’s often planted near homes and temples as a symbol of protection, purity, and spiritual devotion.

Tulsi has a bold, peppery flavor with hints of clove and citrus. Because of its intense taste, it’s rarely used in cooking. Instead, tulsi is commonly brewed into teas or taken as a supplement. It’s a staple in Ayurvedic medicine, where it’s valued for its broad range of healing properties.

Unlike common basil, tulsi has a strong, peppery flavor with undertones of clove and citrus, making it quite distinct in taste. It is often used in herbal teas and Ayurvedic remedies rather than in traditional culinary dishes. The herb’s leaves are packed with essential oils, including eugenol, which contribute to its potent medicinal properties.

Herbalists praise tulsi for its adaptogenic qualities, which help the body cope with stress and support mental well-being. In addition, it is celebrated for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. Ayurvedic practitioners use tulsi for a variety of health purposes, such as boosting immunity, improving digestion, and promoting respiratory health.

Tulsi Health Benefits

Tulsi is considered an adaptogen, meaning it helps the body cope with physical and emotional stress. Herbalists and Ayurvedic practitioners use it for a wide range of conditions.

Key Benefits of Tulsi:

• Stress Relief – Tulsi helps regulate cortisol levels, promoting calm and mental clarity.

• Anti-inflammatory Effects – Compounds like eugenol help reduce inflammation, benefiting conditions like asthma and joint pain.

• Immune Support – Packed with antioxidants, tulsi helps defend the body against infections and supports long-term immune health.

• Respiratory Health – Commonly used for colds, coughs, and sinus issues.

You’ll most often find tulsi as an herbal tea, capsule, tincture, or essential oil. We recommend using organic holy basil for maximum benefit and safety.

What Is Common Basil?

Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is one of the most widely used herbs in the world. It originated in tropical regions of Central Africa and Southeast Asia but is now a staple in Mediterranean and Italian cooking.

Basil has a sweet, aromatic flavor and is commonly used fresh in pasta dishes, salads, sauces, and soups. It's easy to grow and comes in several varieties:

• Sweet basil (the most common, used in pesto and Italian cuisine)

• Thai basil (spicy and anise-flavored, great in Southeast Asian dishes)

• Lemon basil (light and citrusy, often used in herbal blends)

Though best known as a culinary herb, basil also offers some impressive health benefits.

Basil Health Benefits

Basil isn’t just delicious—it's good for you too. It contains essential oils and antioxidants that support overall wellness.

Health Benefits of Basil:

• Anti-inflammatory – Oils like eugenol and linalool reduce inflammation and ease pain.

• Antioxidant Power – Basil helps fight oxidative stress, which may reduce your risk of chronic disease.

• Digestive Support – Traditionally used to soothe indigestion, bloating, and stomach cramps.

• Heart Health – Some studies suggest basil may help lower cholesterol and support circulation.

Basil is usually eaten fresh, but it’s also available dried, or as an oil or supplement for more targeted wellness support.

Key Differences Between Tulsi and Basil

Let’s break down the main ways tulsi and basil differ:

1. Flavor

• Basil: Mild, sweet, and aromatic. Great in savory dishes like pizza, pasta, and salads.

• Tulsi: Strong, peppery, and slightly bitter. Best suited for teas and tinctures.

2. Culinary Use

• Basil: A staple in Mediterranean and Asian cooking.

• Tulsi: Rarely used in food; primarily consumed as a tea or herbal remedy.

3. Cultural Significance

• Basil: Known for culinary value, with some symbolic uses in European folklore.

• Tulsi: Considered a sacred plant in Hinduism. Used in rituals, ceremonies, and as a protective plant in the home.

4. Health Benefits

• Basil: Great for digestion, inflammation, and antioxidant support.

• Tulsi: Used for stress relief, immune boosting, and respiratory health.

5. Botanical Classification

• Basil: Ocimum basilicum

• Tulsi: Ocimum tenuiflorum (also called Ocimum sanctum)

Modern Uses and Popularity

Today, both herbs have gone global.

Basil is easy to find in grocery stores, farmers markets, and backyard gardens. It’s a favorite among home cooks and professional chefs alike.

Tulsi has grown in popularity in the West, especially with the rise of interest in Ayurveda, herbal medicine, and wellness teas. Tulsi tea is now widely available, and many people turn to it for its calming and immune-supporting effects.

Final Thoughts

Though they share a family name, basil and tulsi are very different herbs.

• Basil is a beloved culinary herb used in kitchens around the world.

• Tulsi is a sacred plant with powerful adaptogenic and healing properties.

Both deserve a place in your life—just for different reasons.

Looking for Organic Tulsi to make tea or tinctures?  Look no further.  We grow and dry direct on our small certified-Organic farm in Quebec.  Need some ashwagandha or calendula to round out a blend?  Visit us at www.lafermeaciel.com

While basil is commonly found everywhere tulsi requires a little extra sleuthing.  For sourcing the best holy basil for your needs, read our article on ‘where to buy Holy Basil’

Interested in knowing more about what's going on on the farm? Our occasional emails bring you stories from the field, new herbs for sale, and herbal insights.
🌱 Browse our organic herbs or Sign up for our newsletter to stay connected.