Herbal help needed

[Rita]

I want to grow some Holy Basil (tulsi). When I went to e-bay to buy seeds it seems there are several kinds. I don't want the one for cooking, I want the one that has medicinal qualities. One was listed Ocimum basilicum and one Ocimum sanctum. Any ideas which one for sure is the one for making tea? Thanks

[SRSLADE]

You can make teas out of both of them and medicinal at that too,but if you want specifically Holy Basil,I would take the "ocinum sanctum".

[culpeper]

All the basils, including the common 'sweet basil' have medicinal properties, and can be used to make a herbal/medicinal tea.

Holy Basil, also known as Sacred Basil or Tulsi, is Ocimum sanctum.

Holy Basil Medicinal Uses:
Used internally for feverish conditions (especially in children), colds, flu, sinusitis, headaches, rheumatism, arthritis, abdominal distension and cramps, poor libido, and melancholy. Used externally for skin infections, acne abrasions or insect bits and stings. Seeds are made into tonics and have same uses as Sweet Basil (O. basilicum). May prevent peptic ulcers and other stress related conditions such as high blood pressure, colitis and asthma.

Usual Dosage: Steep 1 teaspoon of dried herb in 1/2 cup water. Take 1-1 1/2 cups a day, a mouthful at a time. Can be sweetened with honey if taken for cough.

Sweet (common) basil medicinal uses:
Infused leaves are antidepressant, antiseptic, stimulating, soothing, prevent vomiting, carminative, and promote clarity of thought. The aroma, inhaled, can allay mental fatigue. A cold infusion of the leaves taken before travelling will ease travel sickness.

[Rita]

Thanks for helping to clear up my confusion. I know that sometimes sellers will say anything to make a sale whether it is true or not.