Description

Tulsi Tea is a herbal tea loaded with antioxidants, popular for its healing properties. It is prepared by boiling 2-3 tulsi leaves(basil leaves) in water for 3-5 minutes until water absorbs its color and flavor. It is strained and served. Some ingredients like turmeric, cardamom, and ginger can also be added while preparing the tea for extra benefits and flavor. There are three types of tulsi leaves that include, Rama tulsi, krishna tulsi and Vana tulsi. All three types can be used to make tulsi tea. Krishna tulsi, of the three types of tulsi, is often considered to be the most beneficial, followed closely by Rama tulsi. Vana tulsi is known to have less potency but is often blended with the other two types of tulsi for a pleasing flavor. Tulsi powder(a ground form of dried tulsi leaves) can also be used as an alternative to tulsi leaves for making tulsi tea.

Health benefits

• Tulsi Tea can help to present respiratory disorders like cold, cough, bronchitis and asthma. Its immunomodulatory properties help to enhance immunity. Its antitussive properties help to relieve cough. Its expectorant properties help to expel out the phlegm. ⁽¹⁾
• It helps to maintain normal levels of cortisol hormone(stress hormone) in the body. -Its antimicrobial properties help combat harmful bacteria and germs in the mouth, curbing bad breath too. ⁽¹⁾
• It contains eugenol, a constituent of the oil present in basil. Eugenol is beneficial for patients with arthritis as it has an anti-inflammatory effect on joints and the digestive tract. ⁽¹⁾

Selection Guide

Both fresh and dried tulsi leaves can be used to make tulsi tea. Look for tulsi leaves without any dark spots and patches. Avoid the leaves that are withered or have holes in them.