You might be thinking, adapto-what?  Not to worry!  Most people have not yet heard about this relatively new class of herbs.  Adaptogenic herbs have been used throughout history in traditional Ayurvedic and Chinese herbal medicines to promote and maintain wellness. An adaptogen, defined by Dr. Nikolai Lazarev in 1947 as an agent that helps our bodies "adapt" to different forms of stressors (environmental, physical, mental and emotional). When your body is stressed, it releases a hormone called cortisol. High cortisol increases blood pressure, raises blood sugar levels, and suppresses the immune system.  The herb Tulsi, or Holy Basil, is a powerful adaptogen.  Tulsi may decrease the amount of cortisol released during stress, stopping the snowball of a stress reaction and leaving you with more of your natural resources and energy to handle it. The chemistry of Tulsi is highly complex, containing hundreds of beneficial compounds known as phyto-chemicals. Working together, these compounds possess strong antioxidant, antibacterial and immune-enhancing properties that promote general health and support the body's natural defense against stress and disease. Organic India’s Tulsi supplement and Tulsi Teas have all 3 varieties of Tulsi in them in equal proportions – making it the perfect tri-doshic stress-relieving adaptogen!