Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum)

Tulsi is a sacred herb with healing and spiritual benefits.^(HR/1)

It has a variety of names in Ayurveda, including “”Mother Medicine of Nature”” and “”The Queen of Herbs.” Tulsi’s antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antitussive (cough-relieving), and anti-allergic qualities help to relieve cough and cold symptoms. Taking a few Tulsi leaves with honey relieves cough and cold while also improving immune health. Tulsi tea has a relaxing effect and aids in stress reduction when consumed on a daily basis. Tulsi’s Kapha-balancing property, according to Ayurveda, aids in the reduction of asthmatic symptoms. Tulsi is also beneficial in the treatment of ringworm.Applying a Tulsi leaf paste to the affected area helps to prevent infection while also reducing inflammation and pain.

Tulsi is also known as :- Ocimum sanctum, Holy Basil, Devdundubhi, Apetrakshsi, Sulbha, Bahumanjri, Gauri, Bhutghani, Vrinda, Ared Tulsi, Karitulasi, Gagger chettu, Tulashi, Tulas, Thai basil, Sacred basil, Dohsh, Tulasi, Kala Tulsi, Krishna Tulsi, Krishnamul, Manjari Tulsi, Vishnu priya, St. Joseph’s wort, Suvasa Tulsi, Raihan, Thiru Theezai, Shree Tulsi, Surasa

Tulsi is obtained from :- Plant

Uses and benefits of Tulsi:-

As per several scientific studies, uses and benefits of Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) are mentioned as per below^(HR/2)

• Common cold symptoms : Tulsi is a well-known immunomodulatory herb that may help people fight the common cold more effectively. Tulsi has antibacterial, anti-allergic, and anti-inflammatory properties, hence it inhibits nasal mucous membrane inflammation. It also avoids the normal cold symptoms from recurring on a regular basis. According to another study, Tulsi can aid with cough alleviation.
  “A common cold is caused by a Kapha imbalance and poor digestion. Ama is formed when the food we ingest is not entirely digested. This Ama enters the respiratory system through sputum, causing a cold or cough. Tulsi’s Deepan (appetiser), Pachan (digestive), and Kapha balancing characteristics aid in the reduction of Ama and the expulsion of excess sputum from the body. Tulsi Kadha preparation tips: 1. Combine 10 to 12 Tulsi leaves, 1 teaspoon grated ginger, and 7-8 dried kalimirch leaves in a bowl. 2. Bring a pot of water to a boil, then add the Tulsi, ginger, and kalimirch and cook for 10 minutes. 3. Toss in a pinch of black salt and a quarter of a lemon. 4. Set aside for one minute. 5. Strain and drink hot to treat a cold or cough.
• Asthma : Tulsi contains immunomodulatory properties and helps to prevent asthmatic symptoms from recurring. It also contains anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory qualities, and it lowers bronchial tube mucous membrane inflammation. Tulsi also functions as an expectorant, allowing extra mucus to be expelled from the lungs.
  Asthma is known as Swas Roga, and it is caused by the doshas Vata and Kapha. In the lungs, vitiated ‘Vata’ joins with disturbed ‘Kapha dosha,’ obstructing the respiratory path. Gasping and hard breathing are the result. Tulsi possesses balancing Kapha and Vata characteristics, which aid in the removal of obstructions and the treatment of asthma symptoms. 1. Combine 1 teaspoon honey with the juice of Tulsi leaves. 2. Eat 3–4 times each day
• Fever : Tulsi boosts the body’s immune system thanks to its immunomodulatory and antibacterial properties. Tulsi possesses antipyretic and diaphoretic properties, which help to increase perspiration and lower body temperature during a fever.
  Tulsi leaves can be used to lower fever because of its Rasayana (rejuvenating) properties, which aid to enhance immunity and combat infection. Tulsi Kadha preparation tips: 1. Combine 15–20 Tulsi leaves, 1 teaspoon grated ginger, and 7-8 dried kalimirch leaves in a bowl. 2. Bring a pot of water to a boil, then add the Tulsi, ginger, and kalimirch and cook for 10 minutes. 3. Toss in a pinch of black salt and a quarter of a lemon. 4. Set aside for one minute. 5. To treat a fever, strain the liquid and drink it warm.
• Stress : Tulsi is a well-known adaptogenic herb that may help people cope with stress more effectively. Stress increases adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) release, which raises cortisol (stress hormone) levels in the body. Tulsi’s eugenol and ursolic acid assist control stress and stress-related issues by lowering cortisol levels. Tulsi’s immunostimulant and antioxidant properties may potentially contribute to its adaptogenic properties.
  Stress is usually caused by a Vata dosha imbalance, and it is linked to insomnia, irritability, and fear. Tulsi has the ability to balance Vata, which aids in stress reduction when used on a daily basis. Tulsi Kadha preparation tips: 1. Combine 10 to 12 Tulsi leaves with 2 glasses of water. 2. Reduce the volume to half a cup by boiling it in a pan. 3. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature before straining it. 4. Mix in 1 teaspoon of honey well.
• Heart disease : Increased cholesterol and blood pressure levels, as well as a stressful lifestyle, can all contribute to an increased risk of heart disease. Tulsi’s Vata-balancing properties help to relieve stress, while its Ama-reducing properties help to regulate excessive cholesterol. It works together to help avoid heart disease.
  Tulsi may help to reduce heart disease caused by stress. Tulsi’s eugenol and ursolic acid aid to alleviate stress and stress-related disorders like heart disease by lowering cortisol levels. Tulsi also possesses antioxidant properties, which help to inhibit free radical-induced heart lipid peroxidation. This reduces the risk of heart disease and aids in the maintenance of a healthy heart.
• Malaria : Tulsi has been shown to have antimalarial properties. Tusli’s major ingredient, Eugenol, offers mosquito repellent properties.
• Diarrhea : There isn’t enough scientific proof to back up Tulsi’s use in cases of diarrhoea.
  Tulsi improves the Pachan Agni, which helps with digestion and provides relief in cases of diarrhoea (digestive fire). Due to its Deepan (appetiser) and Pachan (digestive) characteristics, it aids in healthy meal digestion and diarrhoea control.
• Ear pain : Tulsi’s antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antiallergic properties may help to alleviate earaches caused by microbial infections or allergic reactions.

Video Tutorial

Precautions to be taken while using Tulsi:-

As per several scientific studies, below precautions should to be taken while taking Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum)^(HR/3)

• Tulsi might prolong the bleeding time. Caution is advised in patients with bleeding disorders or taking drugs that may increase the risk of bleeding.
• Although not well studied in human, Tulsi may have anti-spermatogenic (sperm-blocking) and antifertility effects.

Special precautions to be taken while taking Tulsi:-

As per several scientific studies, below special precautions should to be taken while taking Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum)^(HR/4)

• Allergy : Tulsi should only be used under the guidance of a doctor if you are allergic or hypersensitive to it or its ingredients.
  Tulsi should only be used under the guidance of a doctor if you are allergic or hypersensitive to it or its ingredients.
• Breastfeeding : Tulsi’s medical use during nursing is not well understood. As a result, taking Tulsi during breastfeeding should be done under medical supervision.
• Patients with diabetes : Tulsi may help diabetics lower their blood glucose levels. As a result, while using Tulsi with anti-diabetic medications, it is typically recommended to test blood glucose levels on a regular basis.

How to take Tulsi:-

As per several scientific studies, Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) can be taken into the methods mentioned as per below^(HR/5)

• Tulsi Capsules : Take one to two capsules of Tulsi. Swallow it with water twice daily.
• Tulsi Tablets : Take one to two Tulsi tablets. Swallow it with water, two times daily.
• Tulsi Powder : Put one fourth to half teaspoon of Tulsi powder on the tongue. Swallow it with water, two times daily.
• Tulsi Drop : Add one to two Tulsi drops to one glass of lukewarm water. Drink it one to two times a day.
• Shah jeera- Tulsi Pani : Take half a teaspoon of caraway (Shah jeera) and five to six fallen leaves of Tulsi in a glass of water. Boil this blend up until the quantity drops to half. Drink one teaspoon of this mixture twice a day till the high temperature lowers.
• Tulsi ki chutney : Include half mug of Tulsi leaves and raw mango in a blenderNow add black salt and sugar according to your taste. Blend properly to form a paste. Store in the refrigerator and also have it with dishes.
• Tulsi leaves Juice or Paste with Honey : Take the juice or paste of Tulsi leavesAdd honey to itApply once a day to regulate acne as well as scars.
• Tulsi essential oil with Coconut oil : Take Tulsi important oil. Add coconut oil to it. Apply on the scalp one to three times a week to manage dandruff.

How much Tulsi should be taken:-

As per several scientific studies, Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) should be taken into the amounts mentioned as per below^(HR/6)

• Tulsi Capsule : One to two capsules twice a day.
• Tulsi Tablet : One to two tablets twice a day.
• Tulsi Juice : Five to ten mililaters once day, or, Five to ten ml or as per your requirement.
• Tulsi Powder : One fourth to half teaspoon twice a day, or, Two to five gm or as per your requirement.
• Tulsi Oil : Three to four drops, four to five times a day, or, Two to five drops or as per your requirement.
• Tulsi Paste : Two to four gm or as per your requirement.

Side effects of Tulsi:-

As per several scientific studies, below side effects need to be taken into consideration while taking Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum)^(HR/7)

• Low blood sugar
• Antispermatogenic and anti-fertility effects
• Prolonged bleeding time

Questions asked frequently Related to the Tulsi:-

Question. Is chewing Tulsi leaves harmful?

Answer. Chewing Tulsi leaves, on the other hand, can be regarded an excellent and cost-efficient alternative for maintaining good mouth health. Tulsi leaves, on the other hand, are often advised to be swallowed.

Question. How often do you need to water a Tulsi plant?

Answer. Water your Tulsi (Holy Basil) plant twice a day for best results.

Question. Why is Tulsi considered a holy plant?

Answer. Tulsi is a sacred plant in Hinduism, and it is thought to be an earthly manifestation of Goddess Tulsi, who was a devout follower of Lord Vishnu.

Question. Is Tulsi water good for health?

Answer. Tulsi water does indeed nourish and nourish the body, mind, and spirit while also providing a sensation of relaxation and well-being. Tulsi improves oral and eye health, relieves congestion and respiratory problems, and strengthens the immune system. Tulsi also aids kidney function and detoxifies the body without establishing physical dependence, like tea or coffee do.

Question. Can Tulsi protect from toxic chemical-induced injury?

Answer. Tulsi increases the body’s levels of antioxidant compounds like glutathione and enhances the activity of antioxidant enzymes like superoxide dismutase and catalase, which can protect against hazardous chemical-induced injury. This aids in the protection of cells and the scavenging of free radicals created by a lack of oxygen or other hazardous chemicals.

Question. Can I take Tulsi in case of bleeding disorders?

Answer. Tulsi extracts have been shown in studies to decrease blood coagulation and increase the risk of bleeding. So stay away from Tulsi if you have a bleeding issue or if you’re having surgery.

Question. Does Tulsi help in fighting Depression?

Answer. Yes, the antioxidants in Tulsi, such as Vitamin C, aid to minimise harmful stress by relaxing and soothing the mind. Tulsi’s potassium also helps to relieve blood pressure-related stress by relaxing stiff blood vessels. Tulsi, like yoga, provides a relaxing effect and does not have the adverse effects that pharmaceutical medications have.

Depression is a mental state brought on by a Vata Dosha imbalance. Because of its Vata balancing properties, taking Tulsi on a daily basis can help alleviate some of the symptoms of depression, such as stress.

Question. Can Tulsi help in wound healing?

Answer. Tulsi hastens wound healing by encouraging the creation of new skin cells and enhancing wound contraction.

Due to its Ropan (healing) characteristics, Tulsi aids wound healing by encouraging the natural repair mechanism.

Question. Is Tulsi oil good for hair?

Answer. Yes, Tulsi is high in vitamin K, protein, and iron, all of which are necessary for healthy, lustrous hair. Because of its antifungal and anti-inflammatory characteristics, massaging your scalp with Tulsi oil increases blood circulation, which helps to reduce itching, hairfall, and dandruff.

SUMMARY

It has a variety of names in Ayurveda, including “”Mother Medicine of Nature”” and “”The Queen of Herbs.” Tulsi’s antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antitussive (cough-relieving), and anti-allergic qualities help to relieve cough and cold symptoms.