The tulsi plant leaf is more commonly known as holy basil, and scientifically known as Ocimum sanctum. The leaves of the tulsi plant are considered sacred in India and are offered to the gods in sacred rituals. For centuries, tulse plant leaf has also been used to treat numerous ailments and health conditions. As it is an herb that can be grown in your garden or on your windowsill, you can use the leaves to make teas and enjoy the benefits they offer. Martha Stewart suggests that the leaves of the tulsi plant can be used dried or fresh for tea. Dried leaves can be placed into a tea ball and steeped in hot water, and fresh leaves can be steeped in 1 cup of boiling water, using five to seven leaves per cup. Tulsi leaves can also be juiced.
Relieve Stress
There are few better ways to relieve stress than with a nice cup of tea. The National Institutes of Health report a study that shows tulsi relieves the symptoms of general anxiety disorder, stress and depression. In the study, larger doses of tulsi were administered as an extract in supplement form. For those who undergo the simple stresses of everyday life, however, a tea will work nicely.
Treat Colds
According to a study in the April 2005 issue of the "Indian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology," there is scientifically based evidence that shows tulsi is effective in treating bronchitis and bronchial asthma, as well as reducing fevers. It also reports that tulsi is an antiemetic, which means it helps prevent nausea and vomiting. Sipping a tea or drinking juice extracted from the tulsi leaf can help relieve certain cold symptoms.
Treat Ulcers
For those who are dealing with or are at high risk for ulcers, sipping tea or juice made from the tulsi leaf can provide intestinal benefits. The August 2004 "Journal of Ethnopharmacology" reports that when the therapeutic benefits of tulsi was tested on ulcers, it not only reduced the risk of developing ulcers, it also led to faster healing of current ulcers. The study concluded that Octimum sanctum (tulsi) should be considered as a treatment for ulcer disease.
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