Benefits of Tulsi | The Wholesome Lifestyle

Growing up in a Hindu household, I was always told that Tulsi ( the holy basil ) is "Maa" or a holy Plant and when you're a kid you just believe in things, you don't ask why right!? 

Later in life I asked my grandma why Tulsi is so holy, and I got to know that TULSI is considered to be a form or an incarnation of Goddess Laxmi on earth, and thus is worshipped every day for prosperity! 

I would post the religious importance of TULSI in the next blog, in this one we talk about the various health benefits of Tulsi ( The Holy Basil ).

Our very very very own Indian holy Plant Tulsi also known as Ocimum tenuiflorum possess these health benefits -

A Natural Immunity Booster:

Holy basil is a natural immune system booster that helps to hold infections at bay. 

Vitamin C and zinc are abundant in Tulsi. As a result, it serves as a natural immunity booster. It has powerful antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties, protecting us from a wide range of infections. Tulsi leaf extract boosts the immune system by increasing the activity of T helper cells and natural killer cells. 

Helps in Respiratory Disorder :

Tulsi, also known as holy basil, is one of the strongest plants for boosting the immune system. It includes phytochemicals, bioflavonoids, and antioxidant compounds including rosmarinic acid, which is an excellent antimicrobial agent for respiratory infections. Holy basil is an effective cough remedy since it soothes the lungs, decreases chest pain, and aids in the expectoration of mucus. Drinking 1 to 2 cups of Tulsi tea every day, particularly during the monsoon season, is one of the easiest ways to strengthen the immune system.

 

Good for Skin & Hair :

Basil essential oil has powerful antibiotic, disinfectant, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. Mosquitoes and other insects are kept at bay by applying Tulsi leaves or its extracted oils to the body. It aids in the treatment of both internal and external skin conditions thus causing no side effects. To keep your skin clear of infections, eat 5-6 Tulsi leaves a day.  Tulsi also strengthens our hair roots thus preventing hair loss.

Insect Repellent :

 

Tulsi is a mint species with a strong scent that repels insects such as mosquitoes, cockroaches, and fleas. These pests are dangerous and often spread diseases. Having plants around the house serves as an insect repellent and can help you prevent insect bites. For centuries, the dried Tulsi leaves have been mixed with stored grains to repel insects.

Heart Health

Tulsi has a significant impact on the treatment and prevention of cardiovascular diseases by lowering blood lipid levels, suppressing ischemia and stroke, lowering blood pressure and increasing antioxidant activity.

How to Consume Tulsi?

• Consume Tulsi leaves raw, plucked fresh from the plant, add it in your tea or make kadha out of it.

• Tulsi tea: To make Tulsi tea, boil 1 cup of water and pour it over 1 tsp of fresh Tulsi leaves, 1/2 tsp of dried Tulsi leaves, or 1/3 tsp of Tulsi powder. Cover the water in a pot or mug and let it seep for 15-20 minutes. Then strain the leaves, add honey if desired, and enjoy.

• Tulsi powders and supplements are also available in the market for consumption.