Holy basil, known botanically as Ocimum sanctumand, is also known as tulsi in India, where it is considered a sacred plant. The word "tulsi" comes from the Sanskrit word "tulsai," which means "the incomparable one." In the traditional Indian medicinal practice known as Ayurveda, tulsi is used to treat a variety of health issues, including hypoglycemia and toxicity. As an adaptogen, tulsi also helps increase the body's adaptability to stress, according to "The Dictionary of Modern Herbalism."
Antiseptic and Cleansing
Tulsi is used as an antiseptic due to the high content of camphor, nerol, eugenol and other flavonoids present in its essential oil. It is used to cleanse toxins out of the body, especially in the respiratory system, and it also relieves digestive gas and bloating, according to the Chopra Center.
To make a tea with tulsi, add 2 tsp. of organic and dry herb to a cup of hot water and allow it to steep for five minutes. Tulsi is a safe herb and can be taken throughout the day for an indefinite amount of time.
Hypoglycemia
In Ayurveda, tulsi is used to treat hypoglycemia, which is when you have abnormally low blood sugar levels. Hypoglycemia can be caused by taking too much insulin if you are a diabetic, or by having a poor diet. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, tulsi strengthens and tones the body, helping this condition.
Add 1/4 cup of dry and organic tulsi leaves to a quart of boiling water and let them steep for at least four hours, but preferably overnight. Strain out the leaves and drink your infusion throughout the day.
Stress Relief
The adaptogenic properties of tulsi leaves work to balance the adrenal cortex stress hormones and maintain a healthy adrenal stress response in the body, according to Dr. Andrew Weil. This stress-relieving quality also helps boost the immune system, providing support against infections and keeping the body working at an optimal rate.
Take one dropperful of organic tulsi tincture in a glass of filtered water three times per day.
References
- Health News: Holy Basil - Natural Remedy for Stress
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Hypoglycemia
- Dr. Weil: Holy Basil to Combat Stress?
- "The Dictionary of Modern Herbalism"; Simon Y. Mills, M.A., M.N.I.M.H.; 1988
- Chopra Center: Tulsi



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