The scientific name for tulsi is Ocimum sanctum. In the United States, it is commonly referred to as holy basil. All parts of tulsi, which includes the leaves, stems, roots and seeds, are used in Ayurvedic medicinal remedies. Ayurvedic medicine comes from India. Eugenol has been identified as the main phytoconstituent in tulsi. A phytoconstituent is an active compound found in plants. Cloves and lemon balm also contain eugenol.
Fixed Oil
Tulsi seeds are employed to create a fixed oil. A fixed oil does not evaporate. This fixed oil is used in studies and clinical trials to discover the efficacy of tulsi to fight disease and other health conditions. The Delhi Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research at the University of Delhi found that tulsi possesses anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, analgesic and anti-ulcer activities. The study, reported in the Indian Journal of Experimental Biology, concluded, "Existence of anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antibacterial activities in a single entity, i.e., fixed oil, appears to be unique."
Respiratory Health
Ayurvedic medicine uses tulsi to treat respiratory complaints. The Ayurvedic medical book "Dravyaguna Vijnana" states, "Tulsi acts as a carrier or 'anupan' to guide the actions of substances to the respiratory tissues ... and can be used in both acute and chronic presentations." The May 2007 issue of Acupuncture Today reports that tulsi is a gentle expectorant and a useful ingredient in remedies for acute colds and flu. An expectorant helps bring mucus up from the respiratory system.
Skin Diseases
According to the health information website Hecapedia, you can use tulsi to treat skin diseases. The juice of the leaves is applied topically as a remedy for ringworm, itching, dark patches, acne and boils. Hecapedia recommends applying a paste of tulsi leaves and lemon juice topically to treat ringworm, a highly contagious fungal infection that appears on the skin, nails and scalp.
Thai Food
Tulsi, called "ka-prow" in the Thai language, is an integral ingredient in Thai cooking. Its leaves are a signature herb used to add to the complex flavor of green and red coconut milk curries. You can find the whole leaves floating in the sauce. Your dish of Thai food may also use tulsi as a fresh garnish.
Decorative Plant
Tulsi is a popular houseplant in India because it is considered sacred in the Hindu religion. Hindus often refer to this herb as "the queen of herbs." The Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database notes that in Hindi, tulsi means "the incomparable one." You can also find tulsi plants surrounding Hindu shrines.
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