American Ginseng vs Holy Basil

American ginseng is native to North America and has been used by Native Americans for centuries and in Traditional Chinese Medicine as a yin tonic. It is considered more cooling than Asian ginseng and is preferred for those who find Asian ginseng too stimulating. It is particularly well-studied for blood sugar regulation and immune function.

Holy basil, or Tulsi, is one of the most sacred plants in India and a cornerstone of Ayurvedic medicine. It is classified as a rasayana (rejuvenating herb) and adaptogen, used to promote longevity and well-being. Three main varieties exist: Rama (green), Krishna (purple), and Vana (wild).

Ginsenosides (Rb1 dominant), Polysaccharides, Polyacetylenes, Peptidoglycans, Flavonoids

Eugenol, Rosmarinic acid, Ursolic acid, Ocimumosides, Linalool

Cooling tonic, Fever treatment, Digestive aid, Respiratory support, Energy without overstimulation

Stress relief, Respiratory health, Digestive aid, Fever treatment, Spiritual purification

Blood sugar regulation, Immune function (cold prevention), Cognitive function, Cancer-related fatigue, Upper respiratory infection prevention

Stress and anxiety management, Blood sugar regulation, Respiratory infections, Inflammatory conditions, Immune system support

200-400mg standardized extract daily, or 1-2g dried root daily

300-600mg extract daily, or 2-3 cups fresh leaf tea daily

Hormone-sensitive conditions, Autoimmune conditions, Concurrent diabetes medications, Pre-surgery

Fertility concerns (may have anti-fertility effects), Pre-surgery (blood thinning), Hypothyroidism

Headache, Insomnia, GI upset, Nervousness, Breast tenderness

GI upset, Nausea, Blood thinning effects, Possible anti-fertility effects, Mild headache