Description

Tulsi, also known as holy basil is a famous medicinal herb since ancient times. Well known as “Queen of herbs”, this plant can be found growing in pots and bushes all throughout India, Nepal, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. Broadly, there are two common varieties of Tulsi: Krishna Tulsi which is said to have small purplish leaves and Rama Tulsi which has larger green leaves. Wana tulsi, the third variety is dark green in color and is not consumed originally as it is wild in nature. Cultivation of tulsi plants has both spiritual and practical significance.

Health benefits

• Tulsi contains oils like eugenol, citronellol and linalool which possess strong anti-inflammatory properties that help in lowering the risk of heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis and several bowel conditions like diarrhea, flatulence etc. ⁽¹⁾ 
• Tusli contains two flavinoids orientin and viceninare which help in enhancing the immunity and also delay the process of skin ageing. ⁽¹⁾
• Chewing natural and raw tulsi leaves helps to cure cough and cold. Since ancient times it is used to make homemade medicinal drinks to cure cough, sore throat and running nose. ⁽¹⁾
• Tulsi contains a natural substance adaptogen which helps the body to fight against stress and promotes mental balance. ⁽²⁾ 
• Tulsi has the ability to heal wounds due to its anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-viral and pain killing properties. Tulsi increases the healing time of wounds. ⁽²⁾ 
• Tulsi has potential to act upon various symptoms of type 2 diabetes like high cholesterol, insulin resistence, hypertension and weight gain. ⁽²⁾ 

Selection Guide

In case of home grown tulsi, you can easily harvest the stems and leaves before the flower appears and use it fresh anytime. People who cannot grow tulsi at home can store the dried herb in a glass jar with an airtight lid and keep it in a cool, dark place and use the tulsi within one year. Traditionally tulsi was consumed in its raw form as leaves for therapeutic purpose but in the recent few years, it has found its place in the form of teas, desserts, lassi and infused detox water.