
Holy basil is recommended for breast cancer
Holy basil contains numerous volatile compounds and other substances that have powerful antioxidant, radiation protective, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antifungal properties. Holy basil may help alleviate type 2 diabetes by improving insulin activity in the body.
Breast cancer-related effects of eating holy basil
Holy basil has been shown to inhibit breast cancer (including DCIS) growth and progression by affecting cell proliferation and angiogenesis in a mouse experimental model.
Additional comments
While they are closely related, basil (Ocimum basilicum), otherwise known as sweet basil, is not exactly the same plant as holy basil (Ocimum sanctum). Fresh or dried basil typically is used as a food ingredient, whereas holy basil normally is consumed as a herb in the U.S.
Note that while we are continually searching for new evidence specifically concerning this food, there is not much interest in it among breast cancer researchers, so few studies are available.