Introduction: Basil Is Not Always Tulsi

In India, the word “basil” is frequently assumed to mean tulsi. This creates confusion when consumers encounter sweet basil tea, Italian basil, Thai basil, lemon basil or holy basil.

Tulsi and sweet basil are close botanical relatives, but they are not the same plant.

-Tulsi or holy basil: Ocimum tenuiflorum L.

-Sweet basil: Ocimum basilicum L.

Both belong to the mint family, Lamiaceae, and the aromatic genus Ocimum. They may share certain volatile compounds and a familiar basil-like fragrance, but they differ in:

-Botanical species

-Leaf appearance

-Aroma

-Taste

-Cultural importance

-Culinary applications

-Traditional wellness use

-Dominant plant compounds

-Research evidence

-Consumer experience as tea

Tulsi is deeply connected with Indian spiritual and Ayurvedic traditions. Sweet basil has an internationally recognised culinary history and a softer, sweeter aromatic character.

The mistake is not simply calling sweet basil “basil.” The real mistake is assuming that sweet basil has value only when it behaves like tulsi.

Sweet basil deserves its own identity—as a fragrant, naturally caffeine-free botanical that connects culinary familiarity with modern herbal-tea culture.

Quick Comparison: Tulsi vs Sweet Basil

Feature	Tulsi	Sweet basil
Accepted botanical name	Ocimum tenuiflorum L.	Ocimum basilicum L.
Common alternative name	Holy basil, sacred basil	Italian basil, Genovese-type basil, common basil
Plant family	Lamiaceae	Lamiaceae
Genus	Ocimum	Ocimum
Same species?	No	No
Typical taste	Peppery, clove-like, warming and slightly bitter	Sweet, green, floral, mildly peppery and gently spicy
Aroma	Strong, medicinal, clove-like or camphoraceous	Linalool-rich, fresh, sweet and culinary
Cultural role	Sacred and traditional wellness plant in India	Global culinary herb
Familiar use	Herbal tea, Ayurveda, worship and household preparations	Pesto, sauces, salads, soups and aromatic beverages
Naturally caffeine-free	Yes	Yes
Human research	Some studies, mainly extracts	Much more limited
Best tea positioning	Traditional Ayurvedic wellness infusion	Aromatic culinary-herbal infusion
Interchangeable in tea?	No	No

What Is Tulsi?

Tulsi is most commonly identified as Ocimum tenuiflorum, with Ocimum sanctum frequently appearing as a historical synonym.

Kew Science recognises Ocimum tenuiflorum as an accepted species native across tropical and subtropical Asia and extending into parts of the western Pacific. Kew Plants of the World Online

Tulsi is significant in India for its:

-Religious importance

-Household cultivation

-Ayurvedic use

-Aromatic leaves

-Seasonal herbal preparations

-Role in traditional wellness routines

Commonly discussed tulsi types include:

-Rama tulsi

-Krishna or Shyama tulsi

-Vana tulsi

These names do not always represent a single genetically uniform product. Vana tulsi, for example, may refer to other Ocimum species in commerce.

Accurate botanical labelling is therefore important.

What Is Sweet Basil?

Sweet basil is Ocimum basilicum L., another member of the same aromatic genus.

It is one of the world’s best-known culinary herbs and is used across:

-Mediterranean cuisine

-Italian cooking

-Middle Eastern food

-Southeast Asian dishes

-Salads

-Sauces

-Soups

-Pesto

-Herbal infusions

-Flavoured waters

Sweet basil includes many cultivars and chemical types. Their aromas can differ according to genetics, climate, soil, harvest timing and processing.

Common sweet-basil-related cultivars may include:

-Genovese basil

-Italian large-leaf basil

-Purple basil

-Cinnamon basil

-Lettuce-leaf basil

-Certain Thai-basil types

Thai basil is generally considered a variety or cultivar group within Ocimum basilicum, but its anise-like flavour differs significantly from conventional Genovese sweet basil.

Kew’s botanical database recognises Ocimum basilicum as distinct from Ocimum tenuiflorum. Kew sweet basil taxonomy

Is Tulsi the Same as Sweet Basil?

No.

They are related plants from the same genus, just as two citrus fruits may be related without being identical.

Sharing the name “basil” does not mean they have:

-The same taste

-The same chemical profile

-The same traditional purpose

-The same clinical evidence

-The same brewing experience

-The same safety data

A seller should not label sweet basil as tulsi, and tulsi should not be presented as Italian sweet basil.

How Can You Tell Tulsi and Sweet Basil Apart?

Plant appearance can vary between cultivars, but several general differences are useful.

Sweet Basil

Sweet basil commonly has:

-Broad, smooth and soft leaves

-A brighter green colour

-A rounded or oval leaf shape

-Less visible hairiness

-A soft, sweet, green fragrance

-White or pale flowers

-Tender culinary texture

Tulsi

Tulsi commonly has:

-Smaller and more textured leaves

-Fine hairs on stems or leaves

-More visibly toothed leaf margins

-Green or purple colour depending on the type

-A stronger clove-like or peppery fragrance

-A more medicinal and warming taste

Visual identification alone is not always reliable after the leaves have been dried and cut. Botanical sourcing and supplier documentation matter.

Tulsi vs Sweet Basil: Difference in Taste

What Does Tulsi Tea Taste Like?

Tulsi tea is typically:

-Peppery

-Clove-like

-Warming

-Slightly bitter

-Camphoraceous in some varieties

-Strongly aromatic

-Occasionally mildly sweet

Its flavour works well with:

-Ginger

-Cinnamon

-Black pepper

-Lemongrass

-Green tea

-Liquorice

-Rose

-Cardamom

What Does Sweet Basil Tea Taste Like?

Sweet basil tea is generally:

-Softer

-Sweeter in aroma

-Fresh and green

-Floral

-Mildly peppery

-Lightly clove-like

-Gently anise-like in certain cultivars

It pairs well with:

-Lemon peel

-Lemongrass

-Mint

-Ginger

-Cinnamon

-Green tea

-Rooibos

-Orange peel

-Rose

-Hibiscus

-Strawberry

-Apple

Taste verdict

Choose tulsi for a stronger, warmer and more traditional herbal character.

Choose sweet basil for a lighter, fresher and more approachable aromatic cup.

The Unique Value of Sweet Basil Tea

1. Sweet Basil Connects Food and Herbal Wellness

Many medicinal herbs are unfamiliar, intensely bitter or difficult for beginners to enjoy.

Sweet basil already has a strong global culinary identity. Its aroma is familiar from sauces, salads, soups and Mediterranean dishes.

This familiarity reduces the barrier between “food” and “wellness tea.”

Sweet basil tea can appeal to someone who wants:

-A recognisable herb

-A naturally caffeine-free drink

-A mild aromatic infusion

-A tea without aggressive bitterness

-A culinary botanical in a new format

-A simple single-ingredient product

Its value lies partly in being approachable.

2. A Fresh, Sweet Aroma Without Added Flavouring

The natural fragrance of sweet basil comes from its volatile compounds.

Depending on the cultivar or chemotype, important aromatic constituents may include:

-Linalool

-Eugenol

-Eucalyptol

-Estragole

-Methyl eugenol

-Citral in certain varieties

-Methyl cinnamate

-Terpinenes

A 2023 botanical review identified linalool, eucalyptol, estragole and eugenol among the important constituents reported across sweet-basil types. Sweet basil scientific review

The composition is not fixed. One sweet-basil batch may smell predominantly floral because of linalool, while another may have stronger clove, anise or spicy notes.

This natural aromatic diversity gives sweet basil value as a flavourful tea without requiring synthetic perfume.

3. Naturally Caffeine-Free

Pure sweet basil tea does not contain caffeine.

It may be suitable for people who:

-Want an alternative to coffee

-Are reducing caffeine

-Experience caffeine-related restlessness

-Want a non-caffeinated afternoon drink

-Avoid black or green tea in the evening

-Prefer herbal drinks without stimulation

A blend containing green, black, white or oolong tea will contain caffeine.

4. Suitable for Hot and Cold Brewing

Sweet basil’s fresh aroma works well in both warm and chilled preparations.

It can be used as:

-A simple hot herbal infusion

-A cold-brew botanical water

-A caffeine-free iced tea

-A base for citrus blends

-A fruit-and-herb infusion

-A culinary wellness beverage

Tulsi is commonly associated with warming tea, while sweet basil offers greater flavour flexibility in modern cold beverages.

5. Less Medicinal in Taste Than Many Traditional Herbs

Consumers interested in herbal wellness frequently abandon a product because it is too bitter, earthy or medicinal.

Sweet basil provides an aromatic middle ground:

-More distinctive than plain water

-Softer than strong tulsi

-Less bitter than many roots and barks

-More herbal than a fruit-only infusion

-Suitable without large amounts of sweetener

This makes it valuable for people beginning a caffeine-free tea routine.

6. Sweet Basil Has Culinary Credibility

Sweet basil is not an obscure botanical marketed only through wellness claims. It has a well-established role as food.

That allows responsible product positioning around:

-Aroma

-Taste

-Culinary heritage

-Refreshment

-Caffeine-free drinking

-Botanical diversity

-Daily ritual

The product does not need exaggerated detox or disease claims to feel valuable.

7. It Creates Distinctive Blending Opportunities

Sweet basil can bridge herbal, fruit and true-tea flavours.

Potential blends include:

Sweet Basil and Lemon

A bright and refreshing infusion for hot or cold preparation.

Sweet Basil and Mint

A cool aromatic blend suitable for summer.

Sweet Basil and Rooibos

A smooth caffeine-free evening drink.

Sweet Basil and Ginger

A warmer herbal cup for cooler weather.

Sweet Basil and Hibiscus

A tart, colourful iced infusion.

Sweet Basil and Green Tea

A caffeinated botanical blend with a fresh, green character.

Sweet Basil and Strawberry

A modern fruit-and-herb combination suitable for iced tea.

This versatility gives sweet basil strong value in the modern tea industry.

Tulsi’s Unique Value

Tulsi’s value is different rather than automatically greater.

It offers:

-Deep Indian cultural meaning

-Strong recognition in Ayurveda

-A distinctive peppery and clove-like flavour

-A long history in household herbal use

-Consumer association with stress and seasonal wellness

-More human research than sweet basil, though still limited

Some trials involving standardised tulsi extracts suggest possible effects on perceived stress and sleep-related measures. A randomised controlled trial reported improvements after eight weeks of a specific Ocimum tenuiflorum extract. Tulsi clinical trial

That finding does not prove that every tulsi tea produces the same result. Extract concentration, dose and preparation matter.

Sweet Basil Tea Benefits: What Does Science Actually Show?

The Evidence Is Mostly Preclinical

Sweet basil has been investigated for:

-Antioxidant activity

-Antimicrobial activity

-Inflammatory pathways

-Glucose metabolism

-Lipid metabolism

-Digestive effects

-Neurological mechanisms

Much of this research involves:

-Laboratory cells

-Animals

-Essential oils

-Concentrated extracts

-Isolated compounds

These forms are not equivalent to tea.

A review of Ocimum basilicum concluded that the plant contains biologically active compounds and has promising research potential, but it also highlighted the need to distinguish normal food use from concentrated essential-oil exposure. Sweet basil health and safety review

1. Plant Polyphenols and Antioxidant Activity

Sweet basil leaves contain phenolic and flavonoid compounds. These may include:

-Rosmarinic acid

-Caffeic acid

-Chicoric acid

-Flavonoids

-Anthocyanins in purple varieties

These compounds can demonstrate antioxidant activity in laboratory assays.

However, sweet basil tea should not be claimed to:

-Prevent cancer

-Reverse ageing

-Detoxify the blood

-Repair organs

-Eliminate inflammation throughout the body

Laboratory antioxidant activity is not a clinical outcome.

2. Digestive Comfort

Sweet basil has a long culinary history, including use with rich foods, tomatoes, oils, grains and vegetables.

Its aromatic compounds may make a warm cup feel comfortable after meals. However, clinical evidence that sweet basil tea treats indigestion, gas, irritable bowel syndrome or acid reflux is limited.

Its most defensible digestive value is as:

-A warm, unsweetened after-meal beverage

-A flavourful replacement for sugary drinks

-A mild aromatic ritual

-A food-based herb rather than a strong medicinal extract

Persistent digestive symptoms require medical assessment.

3. Relaxation Through Aroma and Ritual

Linalool-rich plants are often associated with pleasant floral aromas.

A covered cup of sweet basil releases a gentle fragrance that may contribute to a calming sensory experience.

It would be reasonable to describe sweet basil tea as:

-Aromatic

-Comforting

-Suitable for a mindful pause

-Naturally caffeine-free

-Appropriate for an evening routine

It would not be scientifically justified to describe it as a proven treatment for anxiety, depression or insomnia.

4. Seasonal Beverage Support

Sweet basil can be combined with ginger, mint, lemon peel or thyme in seasonal drinks.

The warmth, fluid and aroma may feel comforting during mild throat or nasal discomfort.

Sweet basil tea does not:

-Kill respiratory viruses inside the body

-Cure influenza

-Replace antibiotics when medically required

-Treat asthma

-Prevent pneumonia

5. Blood Sugar and Metabolic Claims

Some preclinical research has examined sweet basil in relation to glucose and lipid metabolism.

Evidence remains insufficient to recommend sweet basil tea as a diabetes or cholesterol treatment.

People taking glucose-lowering medicine should not increase concentrated basil intake based on laboratory research.

Tulsi vs Sweet Basil: Which Has More Scientific Evidence?

Tulsi currently has more human research, particularly involving stress, sleep and metabolic markers.

Sweet basil research is largely laboratory, animal, essential-oil or extract-based.

This does not mean:

-Tulsi tea is clinically proven for every advertised benefit

-Sweet basil has no value

-Tulsi is always the better beverage

-Sweet basil should be sold as tulsi

Scientific evidence and beverage value are not identical.

Sweet basil can be valuable for its taste, culinary identity, caffeine-free character and blending versatility even when clinical evidence is limited.

Which Tea Should You Choose?

Choose Tulsi If You Want:

-A traditional Indian herbal infusion

-A stronger, peppery and clove-like taste

-A tea associated with Ayurveda

-A warming herbal blend

-A familiar Indian household botanical

-A product with more human extract research

Choose Sweet Basil If You Want:

-A softer and sweeter aroma

-A fresh culinary-herbal flavour

-A naturally caffeine-free drink

-A mild tea suitable for beginners

-A tea that works well hot or iced

-A botanical that blends with citrus, fruit and rooibos

-An alternative to stronger medicinal-tasting herbs

Choose Both for Different Occasions

Tulsi may suit a warm morning or monsoon infusion.

Sweet basil may suit an afternoon, evening or chilled summer beverage.

There is no need to make one replace the other.

Best Time to Drink Sweet Basil Tea

Morning

Sweet basil can provide an aromatic caffeine-free start to the day.

People who need caffeine for alertness may prefer it alongside breakfast rather than as a direct functional substitute for coffee.

Mid-Morning

This is an excellent time for sweet basil tea because its fragrance can provide a refreshing pause without additional caffeine.

After Lunch

Its gentle culinary aroma makes it a natural after-meal beverage.

Afternoon

Sweet basil can replace:

-A second coffee

-Sweetened iced tea

-Soft drinks

-Packaged flavoured beverages

Evening

Pure sweet basil contains no caffeine and may suit an evening routine.

It is not a sedative or clinically proven sleep treatment.

Empty Stomach

There is no proven advantage to drinking sweet basil tea on an empty stomach.

Consume it after food if it produces nausea, acidity or abdominal discomfort.

Best Time to Drink Tulsi Tea

Tulsi may be enjoyed:

-In the morning as a warming herbal beverage

-During the afternoon as a caffeine-free infusion

-With ginger during cooler or rainy weather

-In the evening if the individual tolerates its strong aroma

Tulsi-green-tea blends contain caffeine and may be unsuitable near bedtime.

How to Brew Sweet Basil Tea

Dried Sweet Basil Infusion

Ingredients:

-1–2 teaspoons dried sweet basil leaves

-250 ml hot water

Method:

-Place the dried leaves in a cup or infuser.

-Add water at approximately 90–95°C.

-Cover the vessel.

-Steep for 5–7 minutes.

-Strain and taste.

-Increase steeping time gradually if a stronger flavour is desired.

Covering helps retain volatile aromatic compounds.

Avoid aggressively boiling the leaves for a long time because this may reduce their fresh aroma and increase bitterness.

Fresh Sweet Basil Tea

Ingredients:

-8–12 clean fresh leaves

-250 ml hot water

Method:

-Rinse the leaves thoroughly.

-Gently bruise them between the fingers.

-Add hot water.

-Cover for 5–8 minutes.

-Strain and serve.

Only use leaves that are correctly identified and have not been treated with unsuitable pesticides.

Cold-Brew Sweet Basil Tea

Ingredients:

-2 teaspoons dried sweet basil

-400–500 ml clean water

Method:

-Combine the herb and water in a covered container.

-Refrigerate for 6–8 hours.

-Strain thoroughly.

-Add a slice of orange or lemon if desired.

-Consume chilled on the same day.

How to Brew Tulsi Tea

Use approximately 1–2 teaspoons of dried tulsi leaves per 250 ml of hot water.

Cover and steep for 5–8 minutes before straining.

Tulsi can tolerate slightly longer steeping than delicate sweet basil, but excessive extraction may create a more bitter, medicinal cup.

Sweet Basil Tea Safety

Culinary Use vs Concentrated Products

Sweet basil used in ordinary food amounts has a long culinary history and is generally considered safe for most adults.

This does not mean the following are equivalent:

-Basil leaves in food

-One cup of basil tea

-Concentrated basil extract

-Large daily medicinal doses

-Basil essential oil taken internally

Essential oils are highly concentrated and should not be swallowed casually.

Understanding Estragole

Certain sweet-basil chemotypes contain estragole, a naturally occurring aromatic compound.

Safety concerns regarding estragole largely relate to:

-Isolated estragole

-Concentrated essential oil

-High-dose supplements

-Repeated, long-term exposure

-Animal toxicology findings

A normal culinary serving or occasional mild cup of sweet basil tea is not equivalent to consuming concentrated basil essential oil.

Nevertheless, it is sensible to avoid excessive, highly concentrated and prolonged consumption—especially when the product’s chemotype and composition are unknown.

Additional Caution

Consult a healthcare professional before concentrated or regular medicinal use if you:

-Are pregnant or breastfeeding

-Take anticoagulant or antiplatelet medication

-Take glucose-lowering medicine

-Have a bleeding disorder

-Are preparing for surgery

-Have significant liver or kidney disease

-Are giving the product to a child

-Have a known mint-family allergy

Possible side effects include:

-Nausea

-Abdominal discomfort

-Heartburn

-Loose stools

-Headache

-Allergic reaction

Tulsi Safety

Tulsi also requires caution when consumed in concentrated amounts.

Potential concerns include:

-Possible glucose-lowering effects

-Possible influence on blood clotting

-Limited pregnancy data

-Fertility concerns from animal studies that are not clearly established in humans

-Interactions with medication

-Variation between tulsi species and products

Tulsi’s sacred or traditional status does not make unlimited consumption automatically safe.

How to Choose Authentic Sweet Basil Tea

Check the Scientific Name

Look for:

Ocimum basilicum L.

If the product is labelled Ocimum tenuiflorum or Ocimum sanctum, it is tulsi—not sweet basil.

Verify the Plant Part

Sweet basil tea should normally contain the dried leaves and possibly tender aerial portions.

Inspect the Material

Quality sweet basil should have:

-Recognisable green leaf pieces

-A naturally fresh basil aroma

-Minimal excessive powder

-No moisture

-No musty smell

-No visible foreign matter

Avoid Artificially Enhanced Aroma

An overpowering perfume-like smell may indicate added flavour or essential oil.

Review Storage

Sweet basil’s volatile aroma is sensitive to:

-Air

-Heat

-Light

-Moisture

-Strong surrounding odours

The packaging should close securely after opening.

Look for Honest Claims

Avoid products promising that sweet basil tea will:

-Cure diabetes

-Eliminate infection

-Prevent cancer

-Melt body fat

-Detoxify the liver

-Permanently balance hormones

Why Choose Sweetea Sweet Basil Tea?

Sweet basil allows Sweetea to offer something distinct from the crowded tulsi-tea category.

Many Indian brands focus heavily on tulsi. Sweet basil can occupy a separate space:

A globally loved culinary herb transformed into a fresh, naturally caffeine-free daily infusion.

Sweetea Sweet Basil Tea Positioning

-Pure sweet basil leaves

-Correctly identified as Ocimum basilicum

-Naturally caffeine-free

-Fresh, green and gently sweet aroma

-Mild taste suitable for herbal-tea beginners

-Enjoy hot or cold

-Suitable for culinary-inspired blends

-Loose tea-cut leaves

-No need for artificial flavour

-Clear brewing and safety guidance

-Backed by a biotechnologist

-Crafted by Sweetea since 2016

Suggested Product Description

Discover the softer side of basil. Sweetea Sweet Basil Tea is made from aromatic Ocimum basilicum leaves, offering a fresh, green and gently sweet infusion without caffeine. Enjoy it warm for a peaceful daily pause or cold-brewed for a refreshing botanical drink.

Suggested Product Bullets

-Pure Ocimum basilicum sweet basil leaves

-Naturally caffeine-free

-Fresh, green and gently aromatic

-Lighter and softer than tulsi

-Enjoy hot or cold

-No added artificial colours

-No unnecessary artificial flavours

-Crafted by Sweetea since 2016

-Backed by a biotechnologist

Frequently Asked Questions

Is sweet basil the same as tulsi?

No. Sweet basil is Ocimum basilicum. Tulsi is Ocimum tenuiflorum, also historically called Ocimum sanctum.

Is sweet basil another type of holy basil?

No. They belong to the same genus but are separate species.

Which tastes better: tulsi or sweet basil?

Sweet basil is generally softer, sweeter and more culinary. Tulsi is stronger, peppery, clove-like and more medicinal in character.

Which is better for tea beginners?

Sweet basil may be more approachable because it is less bitter and has a familiar culinary aroma.

Which has more scientific evidence?

Tulsi has more human research, especially involving standardised extracts. Sweet basil research is mainly laboratory, animal or essential-oil based.

Does sweet basil tea contain caffeine?

Pure sweet basil tea is naturally caffeine-free.

Can sweet basil tea be consumed daily?

A healthy adult may begin with one mild cup if well tolerated. Evidence concerning large, concentrated and long-term consumption is limited.

Is sweet basil tea good before bed?

It contains no caffeine and may suit an evening routine. It is not a proven treatment for insomnia.

Can I drink it on an empty stomach?

You can if well tolerated, but fasting offers no proven extra benefit. Consume it after food if it causes acidity or nausea.

Is sweet basil tea good for digestion?

It has a culinary tradition and may provide a pleasant after-meal ritual, but evidence that the tea treats digestive disorders is limited.

Can sweet basil tea reduce stress?

Its aroma and caffeine-free ritual may feel relaxing. It has not been clinically established as an anxiety treatment.

Is sweet basil safe during pregnancy?

Food amounts are different from medicinal tea or concentrated extracts. Pregnant or breastfeeding consumers should seek professional guidance before regular medicinal use.

Is sweet basil the same as Thai basil?

Thai basil is generally a cultivar or variety within the Ocimum basilicum group, but it has a stronger anise or liquorice flavour. It is not identical to conventional Italian sweet basil.

Is sweet basil the same as lemon basil?

No. Lemon basil may refer to specific cultivars or related hybrid species with a pronounced citrus aroma.

Can tulsi and sweet basil be blended?

Yes. The combination can balance tulsi’s peppery warmth with sweet basil’s softer green aroma. There is no clinical evidence that combining them creates a special medicinal synergy.

Conclusion: Sweet Basil Is Not a Substitute—It Is a Distinctive Tea

Tulsi and sweet basil share a botanical family and genus, but they should not be confused.

Tulsi offers:

-Indian spiritual and Ayurvedic heritage

-A strong, peppery and clove-like taste

-More human extract research

-Familiar traditional-wellness positioning

Sweet basil offers:

-A softer and sweeter aroma

-Global culinary heritage

-Naturally caffeine-free drinking

-Excellent hot and cold versatility

-A beginner-friendly herbal flavour

-Distinctive blending possibilities

-A bridge between food and modern wellness

Sweet basil does not need to imitate tulsi to be valuable.

Its unique strength is familiarity transformed: a globally loved kitchen herb becoming a clean, aromatic and refreshing daily infusion.

For Sweetea, that creates a clear message:

Tulsi represents sacred traditional wellness. Sweet basil represents aromatic everyday wellness. Both belong in the world of tea, but each deserves its own identity.

Medical disclaimer: This article is for educational and general wellness purposes. Sweet basil and tulsi teas are not intended to diagnose, prevent, treat or cure disease. Evidence involving extracts, essential oils, isolated compounds or animal studies does not automatically apply to tea. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before concentrated or regular medicinal use during pregnancy, breastfeeding, childhood, chronic illness or prescription treatment.