Holy basil

Scientific name of Holy Basil: Ocimum sanctum

Name of Holy Basil in different languages:

English: Tulasi

Sanskrit: Surasa

Hindi: Tulsi

Malayalam: Thulasi തുളസി, Krishnathulasi

Plant description:

Holy basil or Thulasi (Ocimum sanctum) is an aromatic sub-shrub, an erect; many-branched, grows to 60 cm to 1m. tall, leaves are purplish green and strong scented, ovate, length up to 5 cm long and toothed. The stem is hairy and purple; flowers are purplish, elongate racemes. It is considered to a Holy plant in Hinduism, planting in front of the houses with special care in Thulasithara. It is known as the Queen of Herbs.

Leaf Arrangement

Shape-Oval Margin-Serrated Venation-reticulated
 oblong  Recticulate

 

Useful plant parts:

leaf

Medicinal uses

To treat skin problems, fever, common colds, infections, insect bites, malaria, dysentery.

Ayurveda uses of Holy basil

Holy basil, known as “Tulsi” in Sanskrit, is a sacred herb in Ayurveda and is highly revered for its medicinal properties. It is used in various forms for a wide range of health benefits. Here are some common Ayurvedic uses of Holy basil:

  1. Adaptogenic Properties:
    • Holy basil is considered an adaptogen, which means it helps the body adapt to stress and supports overall resilience.
  2. Respiratory Health:
    • Coughs and Colds: It is used to relieve symptoms of respiratory conditions like coughs, colds, and bronchitis.
  3. Digestive Health:
    • Digestive Disorders: Holy basil is believed to help with digestive issues like bloating, indigestion, and flatulence. It is thought to promote healthy digestion.
  4. Anti-inflammatory:
    • Inflammatory Conditions: It is used for its anti-inflammatory properties to help manage conditions characterized by inflammation.
  5. Antimicrobial:
    • Antibacterial and Antiviral: Holy basil is believed to have antibacterial and antiviral properties, which may help in treating infections.
  6. Cardiovascular Health:
    • Regulating Blood Pressure and Cholesterol: Some traditional uses of Holy basil involve its potential to help regulate blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
  7. Anti-diabetic:
    • Blood Sugar Regulation: Holy basil may be used to help manage blood sugar levels. It is believed to have properties that support healthy insulin function.
  8. Mental Health:
    • Stress Reduction: It is used as a calming herb to help reduce stress and anxiety. It is also believed to improve mental clarity and focus.
  9. Menstrual Disorders:
    • Regulates Menstruation: Holy basil is used in Ayurveda to help regulate menstrual cycles and alleviate menstrual disorders.
  10. Skin Care:
    • Skin Conditions: It may be used topically for various skin conditions due to its potential antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
  11. Oral Health:
    • Dental Issues: Some traditional formulations include Holy basil for its potential to support oral health, including helping with gum and teeth problems.
  12. Immune Support:
    • Boosting Immunity: It is believed to help strengthen the immune system, making the body more resilient to infections.
  13. Urinary Disorders:
    • Diuretic Properties: Holy basil may be used to promote urine flow and help with urinary disorders.

It’s important to note that while Holy basil has a long history of traditional use in Ayurveda, scientific research is ongoing to understand and validate its various benefits. Always consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner, especially if you have any existing health conditions or are taking medications. They can provide you with personalized advice based on your individual health needs.

How to prepare medicines:

Tulsi leaf and raw turmeric grind are well applied to insect bites to reduce pain and poison, decoction of leaf gargling is useful for bad breath.

Thulasi is one of the ingredients in Ayurveda medicines like-

Copy rights 2013-2024 Medicinal Plants India : All rights reserved.