Benefits, Usage & Precaution of Tulsi

Introduction

Tulsi, Basil is scientifically known as Ocimum basilicum and a popular culinary herb a member of mint family Lamiaceae. It’s known for its fragrant leaves and is widely used in various cuisines worldwide. Basil is a relatively easy plant to grow, preferring full sun and well-drained soil.

Key Properties of Tulsi(According to Ayurveda)

Rasa (Taste): Pungent (Katu) and Bitter (Tikta).
Guna (Qualities): Light (Laghu), Dry (Rooksha), and Piercing (Teekshna).
Vipaka (Post-digestive taste): Pungent.
Veerya (Potency): Hot (Ushna).
Effect on Doshas: Balances Vata and Kapha, and may increase Pitta in excess.

Different name in some other language:-

Assamese : Tulsi
Bengali : Tulsi
English : Holy Basil
Gujrati : Tulsi, Tulsi
Hindi : Tulsi
Kannada : Tulsi, Shree Tulasi, Vishnu Tulsi
Malayalam : Tulsi, Tulasa
Marathi : Tulsi
Punjabi : Tulsi
Tamil : Tulsi, Thulasi, Thiru Theezai
Telugu : Tulsi
Urdu : Raihan, Tulsi

Key Benefits of Tulsi in Ayurveda

Boosts Immunity
Tulsi is rich in antioxidants and essential oils that enhance the body’s natural defense mechanism, helping fight infections, colds, and flu.
Reduces Stress and Anxiety
Considered an adaptogen, Tulsi helps balance cortisol levels and reduce mental stress. It calms the nervous system and supports emotional well-being.
Supports Respiratory Health
Tulsi has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that make it effective against respiratory issues like asthma, bronchitis, and congestion.
Promotes Heart Health
Tulsi helps reduce blood cholesterol and blood pressure, supporting overall cardiovascular health.
Regulates Blood Sugar Levels
It helps stabilize blood glucose and improves insulin sensitivity, making it beneficial for people with diabetes.
Improves Digestion
Tulsi enhances digestive fire (Agni), aids in relieving bloating, indigestion, and gas, and promotes overall gut health.
Antibacterial & Antiviral
Its natural antibiotic properties help in preventing bacterial, viral, and fungal infections.
Good for Skin and Hair
Tulsi purifies the blood, helping to clear acne and skin disorders. Its antimicrobial nature also supports a healthy scalp and hair growth.
Anti-inflammatory & Pain Relief
Tulsi’s compounds work as natural pain relievers, helping with arthritis, headaches, and inflammation-related conditions.

How to use Tulsi as per Ayurveda

Useful in Intermittent fever (Vishama jwara): Admnistration of 10 ml Krishna tulsi leaf juice mixed with 2 gm Maricha (Pepper) powder thrice a day is beneficial.

Useful in Cough: Consuming 10ml of tulsi leaves juice with honey, twice or thrice a day is useful in cough and cold.
Useful in Itching rashes (Skin Allergy): External application of Tulsi leaf paste over the affected skin is
useful.
Useful in Headache: Installation of the 2 drops of tulsi fresh leaves juice in both nostrils on empty stomach

Precaution