Tulsi or Holy basil is a broadly recognized herb in the family Lamiaceae. It is native to India and highly cultivated throughout Southeast Asia.
Tulsi has proved to be widely effective in protecting our body from different kinds of infections and diseases of the liver, skin, kidney, etc. It contains effective oxidants that can help in keeping your blood pressure levels and cholesterol levels under control, making it one of the best heart-healthy foods. It is also good for diabetes as it possesses hypoglycaemic properties which are known to help lower blood sugar levels. It is usually recommended to include tulsi in your diabetic diet plan. Owing to its numerous health benefits, tulsi is rightly called the ‘Queen of Herbs’.
Tulsi has a special place in Ayurveda as well as the home of Hindus in India. It is considered sacred by Hindus and worshipped by them. Three main types of Tulsi are seen growing in India:
- Bright green leaves called Ram Tulsi
- Purplish green leaves called Krishna Tulsi
- Common wild Vana Tulsi.
Nutritional Value:
Tulsi leaves are rich in vitamins A, C and K and minerals like calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron and potassium. It also has a good amount of protein and fibre. It thus acts as a natural immunity booster and keeps infections at bay. Tulsi grows in a variety of climates, including tropical and subtropical conditions. It does best in temperate weather, with full sun, moderate rainfall, and humid conditions.Tulsi is the sacred plant dearer to the Lord Vishnu.
- Tulsi symbolises purity. It is considered as the holy plant in the Indian Subcontinent.
- Its leaves are used in temples for the worship purposes and also on the several occasions such as marriage.
- Tulsi is belived to promote longevity and life long happiness.
- It has immense anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal properties which protect us from a variety of infections.
- The fresh juice of Tulsi taken with black pepper powder cures periodic fevers.
Many people wear beads made up of Tulsi, which is said to have certain medicinal and physical properties. Its wood is considered as extra effective than any other gem that helps in protecting one from the negative influences. A person can also buy various handicraft jewelry items made of Tulsi wood.
