For ages, one humble plant has held a sacred spot in most Indian courtyards. Known as the Holy basil or Tulsi, it is far more than just a religious symbol. Tulsi is undeniably the crown jewel of traditional Indian herbal medicine. Interestingly, Ayurveda has recognized Tulsi as the 'Queen of Herbs,' as it is a true powerhouse of health and acts as a natural shield for both the body and the mind in our hectic, modern lives.
What makes Holy Basil so special?
Scientifically known as Ocimum sanctum, holy basil is distinct from the sweet basil you throw on a margherita pizza. It has a much sharper, peppery flavor and is packed with entirely different chemical compounds. Tulsi is classified as a potent adaptogen, which is just a fancy way of saying it helps your body adapt to physical, emotional, and environmental stress. Tulsi is like a thermostat for your body; it helps get your systems back to normal when life gets too much to handle.
The way to get rid of stress
These days life is really fast and stress can be very bad for you, but Tulsi is a natural way to deal with it. The Tulsi plant has things in it like eugenol and ocimumosides, which help lower the stress hormone called 'cortisol' in your body. When you drink a cup of Tulsi tea, it feels nice and it also calms your nerves, reduces anxiety, and can even help you sleep better without making you feel sleepy. Tulsi tea is really good for you; it helps your body and mind feel better when you are stressed. Drinking Tulsi tea is a way to make your life less stressful.
Boosts immune system
If you grew up in an Indian home, chances are you were given a spoonful of Tulsi juice or crushed leaves the moment you started coughing. There is hard science behind that tradition. Holy basil is loaded with antioxidants and boasts massive antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. The holy basil helps make your body's natural killer cells and T-cells work better. This creates a defense against the common cold, flu, and respiratory infections.
Holy basil is good for your heart and sugar levels
The benefits of basil are really good for your metabolic health. Holy basil can help lower your blood glucose levels. This makes holy basil a great natural support for people with type 2 diabetes. Holy basil also has compounds that are good for your heart. These compounds lower the cholesterol, which is the LDL, and keep your blood pressure at a healthy level. This prevents the stress that can damage your blood vessels. Holy basil is really good at keeping your heart and sugar in check.
Soothing your digestive system
If your gut is feeling sluggish or inflamed, holy basil can help get things moving smoothly again. Tulsi has a carminative effect, meaning it prevents gas buildup, eases bloating, and soothes stomach cramps. It also reduces gastric acid production and increases the protective mucus lining in your stomach, which makes it a fantastic, natural remedy for those suffering from regular acid reflux or painful stomach ulcers.
How to bring this divine plant in your life
Reaping the rewards of this wonder herb is incredibly simple. The easiest and most popular method is brewing fresh or dried Tulsi leaves in hot water for five to ten minutes to create a soothing herbal tea. You can also chew a few fresh leaves thoroughly first thing in the morning on an empty stomach.
How to grow
To successfully grow a thriving Tulsi plant at home, place it in a small to medium-sized pot with well-draining, fertile soil and set it in a spot where it gets at least four to six hours of direct sunlight daily. Since it loves warm weather, protect it from harsh cold drafts and water it only when the top inch of soil feels completely dry, as overwatering will rot the roots.
