Another name for the tulsi plant is holy basil, which is not an understatement to Hindus because the plant is considered sacred. Rosary beads are carved from the roots of the plant, and most homes contain a tulsi plant to bring luck, harmony, serenity and purity to their home. The herb is used both used meditatively and medicinally in India.
Description
The tulsi, or holy basil, plant is native to tropical areas of Asia and India. It grows throughout Malaysia, Thailand, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Bangladesh and southern China. There are three types of the tulsi plant, which include rama tulsi, krishna tulsi and vana tulsi. Krishna tulsi can be identified by its purple to dark green leaves, whereas the other two varieties have green leaves. The leaves and the oil from the seeds are used medicinally.
Use
In Ayurvedic medicine, tulsi is considered an adaptogenic herb with the ability to adapt and resist a variety of diseases and stresses that can harm the body, according to the University of Michigan. It has been used for fevers, headaches, respiratory problems, coughs and colds in traditional medicine. The dried leaves are typically brewed into a tea. However, the powdered leaves have also been used as a snuff to help nasal congestion. Holy basil is used as a cooking spice in Thailand.
Methods
Dosages of 1,000 to 2,500 mg of dried herb are typically used in clinical trials of tulsi, states the University of Michigan. This dosage can be divided throughout the day, or taken all at once. The University of Maryland recommends using a standardized extract at 400 mg a day as an alternative treatment for stress or protection from radiation. You can also make a tea using holy basil by steeping a teaspoon of dried leaf in a cup of water for 10 minutes. The tea can be used up to three times a day.
Precautions
There is evidence to suggest that holy basil can interfere with fertility, according to the University of Michigan. However, the side effects have occurred in studies on animals, and have not been reported in humans. The University of Michigan warns that women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid the herb until there is more evidence of its safety. Otherwise, the plant is considered safe.
Active Ingredients
The essential oil of the tulsi leaf contains eugenol and other volatile compounds. These compounds have an antioxidant effect, according to the University of Michigan. These antioxidants can help to prevent free radical damage in the body, which can lead to illnesses such as cancer. The compounds can also help to reduce inflammation in the body. The leaves and stem also contain tannins, triterpenoids, flavonoids and saponins.
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