Tulsi: The Holy Basil
Tulsi (botanical name Ocimum sanctum), also known as Holy Basil, can be found at the courtyard of most Indian households. Traditionally, it is a sacred plant and is worshipped by Indians for centuries. It is an amazing plant with numerous health benefits and therapeutic power. It contains estragole, linalool, eugenol, sabinene, myrcene and limonene. According to Ayurveda, Tulsi, because of the presence of these flavonoids, is considered as the best antibiotic available in nature and is also known to have beneficial effects on respiratory system. It is widely consumed as a food supplement in the form of Tulsi tea. It balances hormonal secretion and can be used as a natural stress reliever. Tulsi leaves are traditionally taken as natural medicine for common cold and cough, hypothyroidism, diabetes and ischemia. It is also a home remedy for acne. It is often recommended to take fresh Tulsi leaves on empty stomach in the morning and very effective as a powerful blood purifier and immunity booster. It is a good source of vitamin K and beneficial for bone health and also good for brain and heart.
