Tulsi – Holy Basil
July 16, 2009
Hindu beliefs
Tulsi is a plant worshipped by the Hindu’s. “Tulsi” means “incomparable”. It literally is quite incomparable with other herbs. Almost all Indian homes will have a Tulsi plant in the courtyard.
The plant emits a peculiar odour that keeps flies and insects away, thereby rendering the house safe from any ailments caused by these organisms.
Scientific name and properties
The biological name for Tulsi is Ocimum Sanctum. It is commonly referred to as the Holy Basil. This plant is about 2-4 feet tall and flowers between December to February. The active chemical compounds that it contains are ursolic acid, luteolin and apigenin.
It has antibacterial and anti parasitic properties. The leaves, flowers, seeds, and the root of the plant are used for their curative powers. Tulsi has a “hot” potency and is used to cure a variety of health conditions. It is a major ingredient in several ayurvedic and herbal medicines.
Curative Uses
Several health benefits of Tulsi
- Treatment of skin problems and infections on account of its antibacterial properties.
- Helps in relieving pain and stress by strengthening the nervous system.
- Aids in secretion of digestive juices. This indicates its use as an appetiser and also promotes digestion.
- Regulates bowel movements and helps do away with flatulence and discomfort associated with constipation.
- Helps prevent heart disease and promotes heart health.
- Is a powerful antioxidant and helps to detoxify the body and purify blood.
- Useful in treating lower & upper respiratory tract diseases. Has expectorant properties and provides relief from wet cough. Highly recommend for asthmatic conditions and bronchitis. Treats allergic conditions that cause cold and cough.
- Is a natural antibiotic and used to treat fever and for pain relief.
- Is an antidote for many poisons, also has cancer curative properties.
- Can be used successfully in the treatment of diabetes and kidney related ailments.
Tulsi as a home remedy
Tulsi seeds are used as a home remedy to treat menstrual problems. Powdered Tulsi root soaked overnight in water is a remedy for diabetes. Tulsi juice can be used to relieve earache. It can also be mixed with ginger juice to treat colic in children.
Fever can be alleviated by using powdered Tulsi leaves mixed with dry ginger and sugar along with hot water. Tulsi seed and castor oil as a combination can be used for head lice treatment. One Tulsi leaf consumed a day will prevent cancer.
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