Tulsi - The Satvik Queen of Herbs
Tulsi, in scientific literature, is known as Ocimum Sanctum and is more commonly referred to as Holy Basil or the Sacred Basil in the west. In Sanskrit, the word Tulsi means the one beyond comparison.
It is found commonly in the backyards of quite a few Indian households and is revered by many as a holy plant.
Mythology suggests that goddess Lakshmi infused spiritual powers within the plant. According to tradition, placing tulsi upon the dying person is said to help cleanse the departing soul.
Ayurveda states that Tulsi has the potency to increase ojas and prana.
Among the eight objects of worship, Tulsi is assigned the six place, in accordance with the Hindu rituals.
It is considered satvik and a spiritual uplifting herb. It is associated with lightness, clarity and warmth. Tulsi, a natural cure for quite a few diseases, is also linked to improving life-expectancy.
The Ram Tulsi (green) and Krishna (black) are the well known variants of this herb.
What are its various uses:
Toxin Antidote:
This holy herb has the capacity to destroy the ama or the toxins in the body. It is a sludge that accumulates in the body when food isn’t digested completely.
Treatment of skin diseases:
External application of this herb’s paste can help alleviate skin infection such as acne. Severe diseases such leprosy too can be cured with Tulsi extracts.
As a tonic:
Tulsi juice stimulates the digestive tract, acts as a blood purifier and cures nervous weakness. In the form of a tea, Tulsi can cure stress-related issues. It is wonderfully effective against peptic ulcers, heart diseases, hypertension and asthma.
As a nootropic:
Tulsi is often associated with mental peace and hence has been revered. It improves memory by stimulating brain activity.
Ancient practices suggest a tonic made of tulsi leaves, black pepper, almonds and honey to enhance brain function.
Helps in Kidney function:
Basil strengthens the kidney and in case of the occurrence of a kidney stone, a mix of basil leaf juice and honey can help dispel these stones through the urinary tract.
The Grandmother’s medicine for coughs, cold and flu
The juice of the leaves is stimulating, antiseptic and is especially used to cure catarrh and bronchitis.
For throat issues and body ache, boiling Tulsi leaves with pepper, ginger and salt is prescribed.
These host of reasons highlight why this modest plant is hailed as the Queen of all herbs.
To summarise, the Holy basil can boost your body’s health in a plethora of ways – by lowering your blood sugar and cholesterol, easing joint pains, and protecting your stomach.
