Tulsi, botanically known as Ocimum sanctum and also called basil, holy basil and sacred basil, is revered in ayurvedic and herbal medicine for its healing properties; it is believed to treat and prevent diseases and help to extend life. Tulsi contains the antioxidant vitamins A and C, as well as calcium, chlorophyll and volatile oils. If you would like to try tulsi, get the OK from your physician first. Herbs can have side effects and interfere with prescription medications. Also, you should not take tulsi if you are pregnant.
Respiratory Infections
Herbalist and ayurvedic practitioners prescribe tulsi to treat respiratory infections, sinus congestion, and coughs. According to the Alternative Health Guide, a decoction of basil leaves with honey and ginger is used as a remedy for bronchitis, asthma, influenza and colds. Water boiled with basil leaves is used as a drink and a gargle to relieve sore throats. Tulsi is an important ingredient in many aruyvedic cough syrups and expectorants, and is believed to diminish symptoms of colds and flu, as well as lowering fevers.
Protection Against Toxins
Tulsi is used ayurvedically for protective effects against environmental toxins, including radiation damage. According to medind.nic.in, an Indian study published in the "Indian Journal of Clinical Biochemistry" in 2004 showed that the eugenol found in tulsi leaves possesses significant antioxidant qualities. According to akademiai.com, a study performed at the Aligarh Muslim University in India and published in the December 4, 2007 issue of "Acta Biologica Hungarica" showed that tulsi had a modulating effect on the toxic effects of copper on cultured mammalian cells.
Digestive Disorders
Tulsi is used to maintain a healthy digestive system. According to the Alternative Health guide website, tulsi has carminative--or gas-reducing--qualities, and can reduce nausea, vomiting and cramping.
Blood Sugar
Tulsi has been recommended by ayurvedic healers for centuries to lower blood sugar levels. According to medindia.nic.in, a clinical study performed at Aligarh Muslim University and published in the 2004 issue of "Indian Journal of Clinical Biochemistry" showed that dietary supplementation of fresh tulsi leaves for 30 days led to significant lowering of blood glucose levels in test patients.
Canker Sores
Chewing tulsi leaves is believed to promote healing and relieve pain from apthous ulcers or canker sores. According to the Alternative Health Guide website, tulsi has anti-inflammatory qualities.
Spiritual and Emotional Well-Being
Tulsi's protective effects are believed to extend to the spiritual and emotional. Tulsi beads, made from the woody stalks of the plant, are strung in necklaces, bracelets, and meditiation malas--or rosaries--which are believed by many to guard against spiritual as well as physical hazards. Tulsi is also prescribed to lift mood, sharpen memory and mitigate the effects of stress.
Gum Diseases
Tulsi is thought to help heal gum diseases and promote dental health. Along with mustard oil, dried basil leaves are used in toothpaste to clean teeth, massage gums and prevent bad breath.
Skin Conditions
Tulsi leaves, which have antifungal propertes, are used topically in the treatment of ringworm and other skin diseases.
Insect Bites
Apply fresh tulsi leaves, or a paste made from the roots to the affected areas to soothe insect bites. A teaspoon of the juice can be taken orally as well.
Member Comments