Two plants revered in traditional medicine systems, including Ayurveda, are holy basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum) and ashwagandha (Withania somnifera). They each have a long-standing history and are beloved by many. However, their value extends beyond their medicinal uses. And they are easy plants to incorporate into any herb garden or in your home. This article explores holy basil and ashwagandha in detail. You will discover what similarities they share, as well as their unique properties.
Holy Basil vs. Ashwagandha: Comparison
It is helpful to look at specific plant characteristics to help you better understand the distinctions between holy basil and ashwagandha. The chart below explores these categories.
While holy basil and ashwagandha have some common traits, there are also distinct differences. The greatest ones are in their origin, flowers, leaves, and growing requirements. We dive into these categories more in-depth below.
| Holy Basil | Ashwagandha | |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Classification | Ocimum tenuiflorum | Withania somnifera |
| Common Name(s) | Tulsi, Hot Basil,Tulasi, Holy Basil | Winter Cherry, Ashwagandha, Indian Ginseng |
| Origins | Southern Asia, in subtropical and tropical environments. | Europe, China, Africa to Sri Lanka |
| Size | This small subshrub grows up to 3 feet tall. | A small shrub that reaches approximately 3 feet tall. |
| Flowers | The tubular flowers range from white to pink to purple/lavender and are fairly tiny. | The flowers are small and green, so they can be difficult to spot. They have 4 to 5 petals. |
| Leaves | The leaves are slightly hairy and have a distinctive purple tinge. They are elliptical, have serrated edges, and are highly aromatic. While they grow up to 3 inches, they are thin at only 1/2 inch wide. | Small hairs cover most of the plant, including the leaves. They are fine, short, silver/gray, and have a distinct odor. Some say it is similar to green tomatoes. They are oblong, ovate, and occasionally have wavy margins. They also have slightly folded edges and grow between 1 to 3 inches long. |
| Growing Requirements | Easy to propagate by seed, either directly sown outdoors or in seed trays. Plants require full sun and moist, well-draining soil. They are not picky about soil pH or the overall quality as long as it isn’t too wet. Plants develop rapidly. They can be kept in containers to contain the growth. | Great as ground cover. The plants need full sun and slightly alkaline, well-draining, sandy soil. The ideal soil composition is clay, loamy, or sandy in composition. And they dislike excess water. Perennial in Zones 8-12, annual in all other zones. |
| Fun Facts | Used in traditional medicine, including Ayurveda. | Revered in Ayurvedic medicine. Beloved by pollinators. |
Holy Basil vs. Ashwagandha: Origin
Holy basil is native to parts of Southeast Asia. It is a particularly important plant in India.
On the other hand, ashwagandha is native to several regions, including Africa, Europe, Sri Lanka, and China.
Holy basil originated in parts of Southeast Asia.
©Quality Stock Arts/Shutterstock.com
Holy Basil vs. Ashwagandha: Flowers
The beautiful flowers of holy basil are tiny and tubular. They range from white to pink to purple/lavender in color.
Ashwagandha flowers stand in stark contrast. They are small and green, making them almost indistinguishable from the leaves at a quick glance. Flowers typically have 4-5 petals and fall off when the bright fruit is ready to develop.
Holy Basil vs. Ashwagandha: Leaves
While holy basil is related to culinary basil, the leaves are drastically different. Holy basil leaves are smaller and have a slightly purple tint. They have hairs covering most of the surface and are highly aromatic. While they have a bit of purple, the leaves are primarily a lovely green. They are elliptical, have serrated edges, and are very thin. The leaves grow roughly 3 inches long but only ½ inch wide.
On the other hand, ashwagandha leaves are oblong to ovate. They occasionally have wavy margins, a central vein, and slightly folded edges. The fine, short leaves have a silver/gray color and are somewhat hairy. They have a distinct odor that is akin to green tomatoes.
The leaves of ashwagandha are slightly folded.
©thala bhula/Shutterstock.com
Holy Basil vs. Ashwagandha: Growing Requirements
Both plants prefer full sun and are easy to propagate by seed. You can sow them directly outdoors or plant them as starts indoors. They also both require warmer weather and can easily be grown in containers if you live in a colder environment. But that is where the similarities end.
Holy basil requires moist, well-draining soil that is not kept too wet. However, the plants are not picky about the soil pH or overall quality. It grows rapidly, a common trait for members of the Lamiaceae (mint) family. Planting them in containers will help contain their growth.
Ashwagandha likes slightly alkaline, well-draining, and sandy soil. It is drought tolerant, and you should allow the soil to dry out in between waterings. The plants do not do well with wet feet.
The photo featured at the top of this post is © muthugpd/Shutterstock.com
Sources
- North Carolina State University, Available here: https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/withania-somnifera/
- North Carolina State University, Available here: https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/ocimum-tenuiflorum/
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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
How hardy is holy basil?
Holy basil is relatively hardy indoors or in warmer outdoor climates. The plants do not do well when the temperature drops below 50F.
How long does holy basil live?
You can expect holy basil to live for two years on average. However, well-maintained indoor plants may last a little longer than that.
What is the plant ashwagandha used for?
It is commonly used in traditional medicine to address stress. Additionally, it may get used to address other physical or mental health matters.
What plant family is ashwagandha in?
Ashwagandha is a member of the Solanaceae, or nightshade family. Those with a known nightshade allergy should avoid its use.
What part of ashwagandha is used?
The root of ashwagandha features prominently in herbal medicine.
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