Herbs have their own aromatic properties; some are rich in flavours and widely used for garnishing and medicinal purposes. Today we will talk about health benefits of Tulsi, a herb for all reasons in all seasons. Beware, the Holy Basil is not the same as that sweet basil you use at home to flavour the food.
What Is Tulsi or Holy Basil?
Tulsi (Holy Basil) is an aromatic herb with healing qualities that alleviate stress and protects our immune system. It is a member of the Lamiaceae family, native to the Indian subcontinent and a popular cultivated herb throughout the Southeast Asian tropics. Tulsi is also renowned as ‘Queen of Herbs’, as it aids in coping with several ailments, including stress and anxiety. Tulsi is credited for the production of various herbal formulations too. It has a special status in Ayurveda, a holistic approach. The benefits of Tulsi are numerous, as it has both medical and spiritual properties. Some people often consume tulsi tea as it acts as a shield to the body against various diseases. In short, it’s a herb for multiple reasons.
Types Of Tulsi
The three main types of Tulsi are:
- Ram Tulsi: It has bright green leaves
- Krishna Tulsi: It has purplish-green leaves
- Vana Tulsi: It’s the common wild type.
Nutritional Value of Holy Basil
It contains Vitamin A and C; various minerals such as calcium, iron, zinc, potassium, and phosphorus also enhance its nutritional value. Moreover, it is also rich in fiber and protein.
Health Benefits of Tulsi
Although this plant has endless benefits, let’s dig into some of the important Holy Basil uses and benefits.
1. Natural Immunity Booster
It contains Vitamin C and Zinc, aids to boost the immune system, and protects the body against fungal, bacterial and viral infections.
2. Reduce Stress and Anxiety
One of the most significant benefits of holy basil is that it helps relieve stress and hence reduces the development of stress-related diseases, i.e. stress-induced ulcers. Furthermore, it improves mood as well.
3. Anti-Cancer Properties
Tulsi contains phytochemicals; that have anti-oxidant properties; therefore, it aids in fighting lungs, liver, skin and oral cancer.
4. Diabetes
Although it is not proven but some case studies suggest that in type 2 diabetic patients, it aids in lowering blood glucose level. Besides, it also helps prevent diabetes symptoms, i.e. insulin resistance, hypertension, weight gain etc.
5. Tulsi’s Skin Benefits
One of the significant benefits of Tulsi includes its property to fight acne and clearing out blemishes. Secondly, it improves skin complexion.
6. Kidney Stones
It reduces uric acid level in the body, hence decelerates the production of kidney stones.
7. Good for Heart Health
Tulsi aids in the improvement of cardiovascular condition by
- Lowering blood lipid content.
- Reducing hypertension
- Suppressing ischemia
8. Respiratory Disorders
Tulsi aids in curing bronchitis, asthma and cold. Mix Tulsi Juice with ginger and Honey; you are good to go.
9. Stomach Health
It maintains stomach health by reducing stomach acid, increasing mucus production, and extending mucus cell life. Bloating, flatulence, loss of appetite or indigestion, Tulsi has the capability to cure-all. Hence, the benefits of Tulsi for the stomach are innumerable.
How to Consume Holy Basil?
- The benefits of Tulsi leaves are numerous. Pluck fresh raw leaves from plants; add them to your tea.
- You can make Tulsi Tea as well. To make Tulsi tea, you first need to bring 1 cup of water to boil. Then add Tulsi leaves; it can be in the form of powder, dried or fresh. Cover the lid and let it seep for 15-20 minutes. Stain it and enjoy. You may also add Honey if desired.
- Moreover, you can also buy Tulsi supplements and powder from the market.
Consuming Tulsi has several benefits for human health. It assists human psychologically, medically and spiritually. However, it is not approved as a first-line treatment; therefore, consult a bit of doctor advice before consuming. Take special care while consuming it- if you are a pregnant or lactating woman. The benefits of Tulsi may assist you in your day to day life. But it may cause nausea when consumed for the first time. If you have diabetes, take special care while drinking it as it will lower your blood sugar and may worsen the situation. Do not consume it if you are trying to conceive, as Tulsi may affect women’s reproductive health. Make sure you use Organic Tulsi to get maximum benefits.
