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Tulsi - a natural remedy for many health problems!
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| Tulsi or Holy Basil Image source: pexels.com |
Tulsi, also known as Holy Basil, is a sacred and aromatic plant that is an intrinsic part of Hindu culture. It can be found easily in the house of every Hindu Indian family, and its significance in Hindu mythology and traditions is unparalleled. The tulsi plant has been known and revered since the Vedic period and is regarded by Hindus as the earthly manifestation of the goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. It is believed to be the holiest of all plants, and the soil around it is considered sacred.
Caring for a tulsi plant is considered to be a pious act, and it is believed that a person who waters and tends to the plant daily gains the divine grace of God Vishnu. The plant is slightly bitter and pungent in taste, but it is a tonic for the whole body, and from the leaves to the seed, the Holy Basil plant can provide tremendous health benefits!
The leaves of the tulsi plant are rich in antioxidants and possess antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. They are used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine to cure a wide range of ailments, from common colds to respiratory disorders. The plant's essential oils have a calming effect on the mind and can relieve stress and anxiety. The Tulsi plant is also believed to have a positive effect on the digestive system and can aid in digestion and promote healthy bowel movements.
The tulsi or Holy Basil plant is not just a plant, but a symbol of spirituality and tradition in Hindu culture. Its medicinal properties and health benefits have been known for centuries, and it continues to be an indispensable part of Indian households.
TULSI AS A HERBAL TEA
In India, the plant known as Tulsi is mainly cultivated for its religious and traditional medicinal purposes and is commonly used in Ayurveda, a traditional system of medicine. The herb is widely used to make a flavorful and aromatic herbal tea, which is known as Tulsi tea. This herbal tea is a popular remedy for coughs and colds in India and is believed to have a variety of health benefits, including boosting immunity, promoting relaxation, and reducing stress levels. Its medicinal properties are due to the presence of various active compounds, such as eugenol, which is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
How to make Tulsi/Holy Basil Tea?
A simple way to make tulsi tea is to boil 5-7 tulsi leaves in a glass of water for 2-3 minutes. Once the flame is switched off, the mixture should be covered for another 2 minutes. The tea can then be consumed.
Alternatively, you can make Tulsi tea with fresh ginger and whole black pepper. This variant of tulsi tea is effective in alleviating cough and cold symptoms such as headache, body ache, clogged nose, and sneezing.
TYPES OF TULSI
Three main types of tulsi found in India are:
1) Rama Tulsi, which is also referred to as Shri Tulsi, is a popular variety of tulsi that is known for its striking appearance and distinct taste. The plant features broad and vibrant green leaves that are a feast for the eyes. The leaves have a unique sweet and refreshing taste that sets them apart from other types of tulsi. The Rama Tulsi plant is widely cultivated for its aromatic leaves, which are often used in various medicinal and culinary applications.
2) Shyam Tulsi/Krishna Tulsi is a type of basil that is characterized by its purplish-green leaves, which are relatively small in size. This variety of basil has a slightly pungent taste, which is distinct from the more common types of basil. Despite being less common, Shyam Tulsi/Krishna Tulsi is highly valued for its unique flavor and aroma and is often used in a variety of culinary and medicinal applications.
3) Vana Tulsi is a type of tulsi that is characterized by its green and wild leaves. Unlike the standardized tulsi varieties, Vana Tulsi grows freely in forests and is considered a wild plant. It is often used in Ayurvedic medicine for its numerous health benefits and is known to have a strong aroma and flavor. Due to its wild nature, Vana Tulsi is more difficult to cultivate and lacks uniformity in its leaves and overall appearance. Nonetheless, it remains a popular choice among herbalists and enthusiasts of natural remedies.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF TULSI/HOLY BASIL
The health benefits of tulsi leaves are numerous and if consumed daily, it can protect us from many diseases. Some of the major health benefits are:
1) INCREASES DIGESTION POWER
The efficiency with which the body absorbs nutrition from food is largely dependent on the proper functioning of the digestive system. If the digestion is good, the body can absorb more nutrition.
Thankfully, Tulsi leaves contain essential oils and other compounds that can significantly enhance the digestive power of the body. Daily consumption of Tulsi water can regulate bowel movements and flush out toxins from the body, thereby promoting a healthy digestive system. Additionally, Tulsi water can provide relief from a variety of digestive issues such as gas, bloating, stomach cramps, flatulence, and so on.
2) GOOD FOR ORAL HYGIENE
Tulsi leaves are known for their potent antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and antimicrobial properties, which make them highly effective in maintaining oral hygiene and dental health. These leaves are a natural remedy for preventing cavities, mouth ulcers, and bad breath. For best results, the dried leaves of tulsi can be powdered and mixed with a little mustard oil to create a paste-like consistency. This paste can be used to massage the gums or sprinkled on toothpaste for brushing the teeth, leaving your mouth feeling fresh and clean.
Additionally, chewing the tulsi leaves can also help to get rid of these problems and act as a good mouth freshener. So, start incorporating tulsi leaves into your oral care routine for a healthy and refreshing smile.
3) WORKS MAGICALLY IN COUGH AND COLD
Tulsi leaves are known for their remarkable medicinal properties that can work wonders in relieving cough, cold, and other related symptoms. The leaves of this herb are widely used to prepare tea or decoction, which is considered highly effective in treating these ailments.
Additionally, adding a spoonful of honey to this herbal tea not only enhances its taste but also boosts its effectiveness. However, it is important to note that honey should not be mixed in very hot tea. It is best to wait until the tea cools down slightly before adding the honey to ensure that its nutritional properties remain intact and do not get destroyed due to high temperature.
To further enhance the potency of the decoction, one can add herbs and spices like cinnamon, fresh turmeric, bay leaf, ginger, and pepper. These ingredients provide additional health benefits and also add a distinct flavor to the tea. Regular consumption of tulsi acts as a preventive measure against various pathogens and helps strengthen the immune system.
4) BENEFICIAL IN HEART HEALTH
Elevated levels of cholesterol in the body can contribute to an increased risk of heart disease. However, consuming tulsi or holy basil leaves regularly can have a significant positive impact on heart-related ailments by effectively lowering the levels of cholesterol present in the bloodstream.
This is due to the presence of antioxidants in tulsi leaves, which are known to protect the heart from the harmful effects of free radicals and help regulate blood pressure. By incorporating tulsi leaves into your diet, you can work towards maintaining a healthy heart and reducing your risk of developing heart disease.
5) EFFECTIVE IN SKIN PROBLEMS
Tulsi leaves are a powerhouse of benefits, especially for skin problems. The juice extracted from the tulsi leaves or the paste made by crushing the leaves and mixing it with coconut oil can do wonders for the scalp. It is an excellent remedy to get rid of dandruff and itchy scalp and reduce hair fall. Tulsi leaves are also very effective in treating ringworm and other skin diseases.
The paste made from tulsi leaves can be directly applied to the skin to help reduce acne, dark spots, and pigmentations. Additionally, the water that results from boiling tulsi leaves can be used as a skin toner to help tighten and rejuvenate the skin.
6) A GOOD STRESS RELIEVER
Tulsi leaves have been widely recognized for their natural anti-stress properties. They have a remarkable ability to soothe the mind and relax the body, thereby relieving stress, mental exhaustion, and tension. In fact, tulsi tea has been used for centuries to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.
Apart from its calming effects, tulsi has also been found to be effective in relieving mild headaches. The tea made from tulsi leaves is known for its therapeutic benefits and can be a great natural remedy for headaches caused by stress or tension.
Moreover, regular consumption of tulsi in any form can help regulate the body's stress hormones and prevent the onset of stress-related ailments. By incorporating tulsi into your daily routine, even a healthy person can stay away from these minor health issues and maintain overall well-being.
7) EFFECTIVE IN RESPIRATORY DISORDERS
Tulsi is a rich source of eugenol, which has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. This compound is known to provide relief from congestion, bronchitis, influenza, and other respiratory disorders. Regular consumption of tulsi leaves helps in facilitating smooth breathing and improving lung function.
In case of a sore throat, tulsi water can be used for gargling. The water, in which the tulsi leaves have been boiled, acts as a natural antiseptic and helps reduce inflammation and pain in the throat. It also possesses antimicrobial properties that help in fighting off the bacteria and viruses present in the mouth and throat.
8) BOOSTS IMMUNITY
Tulsi is a potent herb that has been used for centuries for its numerous health benefits. This herb is known for its immune-boosting properties, which help the body fight off infections naturally and effectively.
The leaves of Tulsi are rich in antioxidants that not only eliminate harmful toxins from the body but also safeguard it against various viral, bacterial, and fungal infections. Regular consumption of this herb can help improve overall health and well-being, making it a popular choice among health enthusiasts and practitioners alike.
9) CURES MILD FEVERS AND INFECTIONS
Tulsi is a plant with incredible healing properties. It is primarily due to the presence of essential oils and phytonutrients in its leaves that make it so beneficial for our health. Tulsi is known for its anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-viral properties, which makes it an excellent natural remedy for curing mild fevers and infections.
Regular consumption of tulsi in any form can help boost the immune system and provide protection against a host of infections and fevers. Its powerful antioxidants help to neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the body, which in turn lowers the risk of chronic diseases.
Tulsi can be consumed in the form of tea, supplements, or fresh leaves, and is an excellent addition to your diet if you want to maintain good health and well-being.
USEFUL TIPS!
- Although all tulsi plants are beneficial, Shyam and Rama tulsi are commonly used for medicinal purposes.
- If you have a pitta dosha, it is recommended to avoid consuming excessive amounts of tulsi.
- Tulsi is best consumed in moderation, especially during the summer months.
- Tulsi is incompatible with milk and should not be boiled together.
Stay Healthy, Stay Fit
Disclaimer: This content, including advice, provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your doctor for more information.