The plant of tulsi has its own history in India in terms of its usage and worship. They have been used as an immunity booster for ages and have numerous benefits. From boiling it in several beverages to offering prayers every day, tulsi has made its place in every household. Tulsi is scientifically called the Ocimum basilicum, the Mother Medicine of Nature in ancient Ayurvedic medicinal texts. It is a herb that is used for several causes worldwide. Known for its exceptional medical abilities, tulsi is also a herb that is used in food and cuisines all over the world. The original use of Tulsi or Holy Basil Plant in India comes from Ayurveda. Tulsi is available in different types and is used as a home remedy to cure several illnesses. These leaves are eaten in raw form to cure colds and coughs. Tulsi leaves are also used to prepare various medicines. The oil extracted from these leaves is used to prepare cosmetic products like shampoo, soap, perfume, lotion, and so on.
What Are the Benefits Of Tulsi Leaf?
1. Tulsi is rich in Vitamin C and zinc, thus acts as a natural immunity booster and keeps infections at bay.
2. Tulsi has immense anti-bacterial, anti-viral, and anti-fungal properties which protect us from a variety of infections.
3. Tulsi leaf extract increases the T helper cells and natural killer cells' activity and helps boost the immune system.
4. Tulsi contains camphene, cineole, and eugenol which helps reduce cold and congestion in the chest.
5. Juice of Tulsi leaves mixed with honey and ginger proves to be beneficial for bronchitis, asthma, influenza, cough, and cold.
6. Tulsi contains compounds Ocimumosides A and B which help reduce stress and balance the neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine in the brain.
7. Tulsi possess anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation and blood pressure.
8. Phytochemicals present in Tulsi have strong antioxidant properties and thus help protect us from skin, liver, oral, and lung cancers.
9. Tulsi has a profound effect on the treatment and prevention of cardiovascular diseases by lowering blood lipid content, suppressing ischemia and stroke, reducing hypertension, and also due to its higher antioxidant properties.
10. Applying juice of fresh tulsi leaves can help treat skin infections such as ringworm or insect bites. The leaves have natural analgesic qualities that help control inflammation and pain.
(At The Quint, we question everything. Play an active role in shaping our journalism by becoming a member today.)