Tulsi (Holy Basil)
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Ocimum tenuiflorum
BIOTANICAL FAMILY
Lamiaceae; Mint family
PLANT PART
Leaves and flowers
PREPARATIONS
Tea, tincture, infused oil, infused vinegar, compress, poultice, and pesto
THERAPEUTIC APPLICATIONS
Adaptogen, antioxidant, antidepressant, anxiolytic, antibacterial, antifungal, antiprotozoal, antiviral, carminative, diuretic, expectorant, galactagogue, anticatarrhal, immunomodulator, anti-inflammatory, hypotensive, antimutagenic, hypoglycemic, hypocholesterolemic, and radioprotective.
EMOTIONAL/ENERGETIC QUALITIES
Uplifting, calming, and anxiolytic; slightly warming and drying
ETNOBOTANY LORE AND ANCIENT PRACTICES
Tulsi means "the incomparable one" in Sanskrit and is considered a sacred plant in India as it possesses an incredibly wide range of therapeutic properties. Many cultures throughout southern Asia and northern Africa have used the plant as home remedy and the first documented medicinal uses go back 2000 years. Tulsi is a folk remedy in India for a number of common conditions, including respiratory ailments such as asthma, bronchitis, chest colds, sinus infections, allergies, and cold and flu. In Thailand, holy basil is used as a home remedy for gas, indigestion, peptic ulcers, coughs, sinusitis, and headaches. In Ayurveda, Tulsi is also used as an adaptogen and heart tonic, lowering cholesterol and blood pressure; balancing blood sugar levels. It sharpens focus and clarity of thought, increasing concentration and grounding the mind.
SAFETY
Avoid in pregnancy or if trying to conceive; people with diabetes should talk to their doctor before use.
DISCLAIMER: The information provided above is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease; these statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Please consult a licensed healthcare specialist for specific medical advice.