Hindi Name: Tulsi
Sanskrit Name: Tulasi
English Name: Holy Basil
Latin Name: Ocimum sanctum Linn Pennel
This is an annual delicate herb cultivated mainly in the tropical climate of the country. It can also be planted in the kitchen garden and as an indoor plant since it is kept sacred in Hindu philosophy. Medicinally the leaves are used for various kinds of classical and homemade preparations.
Tulsi Medicinal Uses & Benefits
Indian mythology has great significance to Tulsi by recognizing it as a holy herb. Perhaps, such significance comes from the actual health applications of the herb. Its use is recommended as first aid in the treatment of respiratory, digestive, and skin diseases. Apart from these common ailments, Ayurveda also recognizes its use for diseases ranging up to tumorous growth. Experimental studies show this to be a highly promising immunomodulator, a cytoprotective and anticancer agent.
Tulsi leaves are rich in vitamins A, C, and K and minerals like calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, and potassium. It also has a good amount of protein and fiber. The chemical compounds identified are ursolic acid, eugenol, nerol, terpinene pinene, carvacrol, apigenin, luteolin, and orientin.
Some of the benefits & uses of the Tulsi plant.
- Promotes a Healthy Heart - Tulsi contains vitamin C and antioxidants such as eugenol, which protects the heart from the harmful effects of free radicals. Eugenol also proves useful in reducing cholesterol levels in the blood.
- Fights Acne - Tulsi helps kill bacteria and infections. The primary active compound of holy basil oil is eugenol which helps fight skin-related disorders. It helps treat skin infections both internally and externally.
- Anti-aging - Vitamin C and A, phytonutrients, in Tulsi are great antioxidants and protect the skin from almost all the damage caused by free radicals.
- Treats Kidney Stones - Tulsi acts as a mild diuretic & detoxifying agent which helps in lowering the uric acid levels in the body. The acetic acid present in Tulsi helps in the breakdown of the stones.
- Cures Respiratory Disorders - Due to the presence of compounds like camphene, eugenol, and cineole, tulsi cures viral, bacterial, and fungal infections of the respiratory system. It can cure various respiratory disorders like bronchitis & tuberculosis.
- Relieves Headaches - Tulsi is a natural headache reliever that can also relieve migraine pain.
- Relieves Fever - Tulsi is an age-old ingredient for treating fever. It is one of the prime ingredients in the formulation of various ayurvedic medicines & home remedies.
- Eye Health - Tulsi's anti-inflammatory properties help promote eye health by preventing viral, bacterial, and fungal infections. It also soothes eye inflammation and reduces stress.
- Oral Health - Tulsi is a natural mouth freshener and an oral disinfectant. It can also cure mouth ulcers. Holy basil destroys the bacteria that are responsible for dental cavities, plaque, tartar, and bad breath, while also protecting the teeth.
- Rich Source of Vitamin K - Vitamin K is an essential fat-soluble vitamin that plays an important role in bone health and heart health.