Basil

Basil seeds or basil essential oil are proven to help prevent a wide range of health conditions, which makes it one of the most essential medical herbs known today. Basil has vitamins A, C, E, K and Omega 3 components including cooling components too. It also contains minerals like Copper, Calcium, Manganese, Phosphorus, Zinc, and Potassium. An ancient Ayurvedic herb, basil has various proven benefits including being anti-inflammatory, ant-oxidant, immune-booster, pain-reducer, and blood vessel-protector. This herb also contains cooling components thus making it really helpful for summer. It detoxifies the body and maintains one's body temperature pace. Adding to the benefits Basil contains antioxidant-rich volatile essential oils, which are considered hydrophobic, meaning they don't dissolve in water and are light and small enough to travel through the air and the pores within our skin. Basil's volatile essential oil is something that gives the herb its distinct smell and taste, but basil contains some great healing properties. In the long history of Ayurveda, basil seeds were also called tukmaria seeds. These seeds may support one's gut health, may complete one's fibre quota, reduce blood sugar, help in weight loss, and also reduce cholesterol. There are more than 60 varieties of basil, with sweet basil being one of the most widely used. The herb has rounded leaves that are often pointed. It is a bright green plant, and although some varieties have hints of purple or red in their leaves, basil makes a colourful and flavorful addition to many different dishes. It has been observed that many of the cooks use basil to thicken their desserts instead of using any artificial/ unhealthy powder to do so. Sometimes people are not able to differentiate between Chia seeds and basil seeds, to make it clear basil seeds are different in nature they are larger and a bit duller in their colour. These herbs are used in various recipes as a cooling component in desserts, drinks and fruit juices for refreshment, also beating the summer heat. For better digestion, weight loss and immune system, I suggest this simple recipe which can be easily made at home: *Take 2 tsp of Basil seeds (sabja) + Add in 1/2 litre of water +10 mint leaves crushed<br>*1/2 tsp cinnamon powder + A little bit of sendha salt (pink Himalayan salt)<br>*Or to make a sweeter version one can add organic honey.<br>*Mix it well and drink it. This recipe will help to flush out toxins from our body making it feel light and healthy. (Dr Smita Naram, Co-Founder, Ayushakti, on Ayurveda and Summers)

Tulsi, often known as Holy Basil, is considered a sacred plant in Hinduism. It is regarded as the earthy manifestation of goddess Tulsi who is an avatar of goddess Lakshmi. Many Hindus have Tulsi plants in front of their home in a special pot or special masonry in Hindu culture.   Tulsi is originated from North-central India. It is a very ancient herb and has been used in Ayurveda for its remarkable healing properties for a long time. In Ayurveda, it is often called the 'Mother Medicine of Nature' or 'The queen of Herbs" due to its numerous medicinal properties. Tulsi is a very potent and common remedy for cough and cold as it is antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, expectorant, cough-relieving, and anti-allergic. When it is taken with honey, it strengthens our immunity and helps us fight diseases.   Tulsi tea is good for reducing stress and give the body a calm and relaxing feeling. Consuming Tulsi regularly fixes a weak digestive system and can help in weight loss. It is an antioxidant and hepatoprotective agent so that Tulsi can protect the liver from damage. Both types of diabetes can also benefit from the use of Tulsi, as it regulates blood glucose level by increasing insulin secretion and increases insulin sensitivity and prevent pancreas damage.   Tulsi can be used in more complex diseases like nerve disorder, stress, anxiety, and memory disorders. Studies have also shown that Tulsi can have a positive effect on cancer. It has glutathione, which is considered the master antioxidant, which also improves other antioxidant functions.   Tulsi is scientifically known as Ocimum tenuiflorum or Ocimum sanctum. In different parts of India, Tulsi has different names like Devdundubhi, Sulbha, Gauri, Tulasi, Holy Basil, Vrinda, Krishnamul, Shree Tulsi, etc.   Tulsi Health Benefits: Benefits of using Tulsi in Ayurvedic treatment   1. Common cold Science Ayurveda Tulsi is a well-known immune-modulatory herb that enhances immunity and boosts the fight against the common cold. Tulsi's antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties prevent nasal mucosal membrane swelling. Tulsi is also shown effective against cough. The use of Tulsi can prevent regular recurrence of the common cold. Ayurvedically common cold is caused due to aggravation of Kapha dosha and weak digestion. A weak digestive system leads to the accumulation of undigested toxic food remains of Ama. This Ama can cause cold or cough by reaching the respiratory system in the form of sputum. Tulsi is a very potent Deepan (appetizer), Pachan (digestive fire), and Kapha balancer. Due to these properties, Tulsi can help to reduce the accumulation of Ama and expel the excessive sputum from the body. Add 10-12 tulsi leaves in boiling water along with 7-8 kali-mirch (black pepper) and 1 teaspoon of grated ginger. Boil this for 10 minutes and add a pinch of black salt and ½ lemon squeeze for better taste. Put off the flame and cool this mixture before straining it. Drink it warm to regulate common cold and cough.   2. Benefits of Tulsi for Influenza Science Ayurveda Tulsi is a great immunomodulatory substance, helps to prevent viral infections. Tulsi is antipyretic and also have diaphoretic quality. Together these properties induce sweating and thus normalizes elevated body temperature in Influenza conditions. Ayurvedically, Influenza is also known as Vata Shleshmika Jwara. According to Ayurveda, influenza occurs due to an imbalance in our body's three main doshas, which are Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Tulsi is a great herb that helps manage all three doshas, especially it is very effective against Kapha imbalance. It balances Kapha dosha by its Rasayana or rejuvenating property as a whole; Tulsi gives your immunity a boost and helps to fight influenza. Add 10-12 tulsi leaves in boiling water along with 7-8 kali-mirch (black pepper) and 1 teaspoon of grated ginger. Boil this for 10 minutes and add a pinch of black salt and ½ lemon squeeze for better taste. Put off the flame and cool this mixture before straining it. Drink it warm to manage influenza and get relief from its symptoms.   3. Benefits of Tulsi for Asthma  Science Ayurveda The immunomodulatory activity of Tulsi helps regulate the regular recurrence of astigmatic symptoms. Its anti-allergy and anti-inflammatory properties also reduce inflammation in the mucus membrane of the bronchial tube. Tulsi not only helps to manage the inflammation but also acts as an expectorant. The expectorant activity expels excess mucus from the lunch, which gets relief from athematic symptoms. In Ayurveda, asthma is known as Swash Roga. In this disease, the main problem is an imbalance in Vata (body energy) and Kapha dosha. This imbalance in two doshas causes mucus accumulation in the lungs' respiratory passage, causing obstruction, difficulty in respiration, and gasping. Tulsi is a great Vata and Kapha balancer; these two properties of Tulsi help remove the obstruction as it manages to expel the accumulated mucus out of the body and get relief from asthma. Tulsi leaves juice mixed with 1 teaspoon of honey is a great remedy for asthma. Consume it daily 3-4 times to get effective results.   4. The benefit of Tulsi for Fever Science Ayurveda Tulsi is a very potent substance, and its bioactive constituents show an immunomodulatory and antimicrobial property. Consumption of Tulsi enhances the immunity of the body due to these properties. It not only beneficial for immunity, but its antipyretic and diaphoretic activity is beneficial for fever conditions. It induces sweating, which then lowers the body temperature and helps to normalize it. Fever is nothing but elevated body temperature, which is mainly caused due to imbalance in Vata (body energy). And Tulsi leaves can reduce fever as it is a good Vata balancer and also improves body immunity. Its Rasayana (rejuvenating) property and enhanced immunity help to fight against infection, which manages fever. In Ayurveda, for the treatment of fever, Tulsi Kadha is used. To prepare Tulsi kadha, 15 – 20 Tulsi leaves are boiled in water with 1 tablespoon of grated ginger and 7 – 8 kali-mirch (black pepper). Boil this mixture for 10 minutes and add a pinch of black salt and ½ lemon squeeze for taste. Let it cool for a minute or two, and then strain it. Drink this Kadha warm; this will help to manage fever.   5. The benefit of Tulsi for stress Science Ayurveda Stress is increasing day by day, and sometimes it gets hard to manage. Adaptogenic herbs are great for managing stress, whether it is physical, chemical, or biological stress. Tulsi is an adaptogenic herb, and the use of Tulsi improves the ability to deal with stress. During a stress response, our body increases the secretion of adrenocorticotropic hormone or ACTH, increasing the cortisol (stress hormone) secretion. Increased cortisol levels in our body increase stress. Tulsi contains Eugenol and Ursolic acid as bioactive constituents. These reduce the cortisol levels in our body and, as a result, manages stress and other stress-related problems. Tulsi also possesses antioxidant property, and its immunostimulant capacity might also contribute to the adaptogenic activity. Our body energy or Vata plays an important role in stress control. Usually, an imbalance in Vata induces stress-related problems like insomnia, irritation, and fear. Consumption of Tulsi helps to regulate stress due to its Vata balancing property. Tulsi kadha is very good for reducing stress. Add 10-12 Tulsi leaves in 2 cups of water and boil it until the volume reduces to half. Cool the mixture up to room temperature and strain it. You can add 1 teaspoon of honey to the mix and drink it fresh to reduce stress.   6. The benefit of Tulsi in Diabetes mellitus Science Ayurveda Tulsi helps type 1 and type-2 diabetes; it manages the diabetic condition and helps in other diabetes-related problems. In type 1 diabetes, your body produces little to no insulin, and in type 2 diabetes body does not respond to insulin. Both of these conditions can lead to high blood sugar levels. Tulsi is hypoglycemic, which means it decreases the high blood glucose levels. Tulsi achieves this by increasing the secretion of insulin and also insulin sensitivity. Enhanced insulin function processes the blood glucose more efficiently and manages blood glucose levels. Tulsi's antioxidant property also protects the pancreatic beta cells (which produce insulin) from free radical damage; this reduces the risk of diabetes and other related complications like liver, kidney, and cardiac dysfunction. In Ayurveda, diabetes is known as Madhumeha. It occurs due to aggravated Vata dosha and a weak digestive system. A weak digestive system leads to improper digestion, and that causes accumulation of Ama (undigested toxic food remains). The accumulation of Ama in the pancreatic cells disrupts its normal functionality and impairs the function of insulin. Tulsi not only controls Vata but also possesses Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) property, which makes the digestive system strong and removes Ama. This action helps to reduce and control high blood sugar/ glucose levels and manages the diabetic condition.   7. The benefit of Tulsi for Liver disease Science Ayurveda Tulsi is a hepatoprotective agent. It helps in viral hepatitis due to its antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Tulsi protects the liver from virus attack, and the antioxidant activity prevents free radical damage of liver cells. Thus, Tulsi protects the liver and its functionality and restores the condition of the damaged liver.  According to Ayurveda, liver disorders are due to poor Pachak Agni (digestive fire) and Vata and Pitta dosha's aggravation. Tulsi not only balances Vata and Pitta dosha, but it also improves Pachak Agni due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) property. Proper digestion of food does not let any accumulation of Ama and prevent toxic degradation of liver cells. The Rasayana (rejuvenating) nature of Tulsi also contributes to liver-protective action.   8. Benefit for Heart disease Science Ayurveda As Tulsi is a good stress modulator, it might prevent stress-related heart disease. Increased stress levels can wear out heart muscle and induce strain, leading to several heart problems. Tulsi's bioactive components like eugenol and ursolic acid reduce cortisol (stress hormone) levels, which eventually reduces stress and stress-related heart problems. The human body is prone to oxidative free radical damage, but Tulsi's antioxidant property prevents free radical-mediated cardiac lipid peroxidation. All of these together lowers the risk of heart diseases and maintains a healthy and properly functioning heart. In this stressful lifestyle with unhealthy food habits, an increase in blood cholesterol level and blood pressure is very common. And these problems ultimately lead to different types of heart diseases. Tulsi reduces stress levels due to its Vata balancing property; it also improves Pachak Agni and improves digestion, which controls high blood cholesterol levels. So Tulsi is beneficial for the heart; it reduces the risk of heart disease.   9. Benefits of Tulsi for Malaria Tulsi is widely used in Ayurvedic medicine for treating malaria and control its symptoms. Tulsi is known for its antimalarial activity, and this is due to its Eugenol content. Eugenol is the active ingredient that shows therapeutic efficacy in removing bacterial infection and manage malaria. It also possesses mosquito repellent property. For better results, mix Tulsi leaves with black pepper powder and use it.    10. Benefits of Tulsi for Diarrhea Science Ayurveda There is not enough scientific evidence to support the fact that Tulsi can be useful in diarrhea. Tulsi possesses Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) property which are beneficial for diarrhea. Tulsi helps to improve digestive fire and promotes proper digestion, which helps manage diarrhea and relieve frequent bowel movement.   11. The benefit of Tulsi for Insomnia Science Ayurveda There is not enough scientific evidence to support the fact that Tulsi can be useful in insomnia. Ayurveda says aggravated Vata dosha makes the nervous system hypersensitive, which leads to Anidra (insomnia). Tulsi being a relaxing herb  induces good sleep due to its Vata balancing property.   12. Benefits of Tulsi for Ringworm Science Ayurveda Tulsi is antimicrobial, so the local application of it may help in the ringworm problem. In Ayurveda, ringworm is known as Dadru, and the itching and burning sensation which is caused by ringworm is due to an imbalance in Kapha and pitta dosha. The application of Tulsi externally manages aggravated Kapha, and its Ruksha (dry) property helps control ringworm and relieve symptoms. Tulsi juice can be applied to the affected area regularly to control ringworm infection. Or you can make a paste out of 2 – 3 Tulsi leaves and mix it with coconut oil. Application of this paste to the infected area reduces the itching and burning sensation. Children can also use this paste safely.   13. Benefits of Tulsi for headache Science Ayurveda Tulsi might be useful in Headache, but there is no scientific evidence to prove this fact. Headache due to sinusitis can be managed with the use of Tulsi. This basically occurs due to an imbalance in Vata and Kapha dosha; Tulsi helps to manage both. Tulsi not only balances Vata and Kapha; it also reduces the heaviness and congestion in sinusitis. Add Tulsi leaves to a large pot of hot and steamy water. Inhale the steam from the pot while covering your head with a towel. Do this for 10-15 minutes, and this will reduce the headache.   14. Use of Tulsi in case of an animal bite Science Ayurveda Tulsi might be useful in snake and scorpion bites. Its anti-inflammatory property reduces swelling, and the analgesic effect reduces pain. Tulsi also possesses antihistamine property which prevents possible side effects. External application of Tulsi can provide a beneficial effect in the case of an animal bite. Tulsi's Ropan (healing) property helps to cure animal bite wounds. It is recommended to apply Tulsi paste or oil to the affected area for healing and to prevent any infection.   15. Benefits for ear pain  Ear pain can occur due to any microbial infection, an allergic reaction, or any internal damage. Tulsi is antimicrobial, which prevents microbial growth in-ear the; the anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity reduces the pain and any swelling in earache.    Ways of using Tulsi in Ayurveda with Recommended Dosage ● Tulsi as in capsules form- Tulsi is commercially available as tablets commercially. Swallow 1 – 2 tablets with water daily. Tulsi tablets can be used as a food supplement and as an immunity booster.    ● Tulsi tablets-Tulsi is also available in tablet forms. 1 – 2 tablets twice a day is the recommended dosage. Tulsi tablets can be used as an immunity booster and to replenish vitamin and mineral levels in the body.    ● Powder form -Tulsi leaves are also available in powdered form; ¼ - ½ teaspoon of Tulsi powder mix with water or put the powder on the tongue and swallow it with water.    ● Tulsi drop-Tulsi extract or Tulsi drops are very concentrated solutions of Tulsi leaves extract commercially available. It is very potent and should be diluted with water before use; otherwise, it can cause acidity. 1-2 Tulsi drop is diluted with one glass of lukewarm water and drink it 1-2 times a day for health benefits.   ● Raw Tulsi leaves Tulsi leaves can be consumed raw; it can be chewed, but generally, swallowing is preferred. There is no harm in consuming raw Tulsi leaves. Take 5-7 fresh Tulsi leaves and have it in the morning before meals.   ● Tulsi Tea Take 5-7 fresh Tulsi leaves in 1½ cup of water. Boil it for 10 minutes and then stain it. Few drops of lemon juice can be added to it for better taste. This Tulsi tea is great for common cough and cold. Drink it warm.   ● Tulsi with Shah jeera Half a teaspoon of caraway (Shah jeera) is taken in a water glass with 5-6 Tulsi leaves. Boil this mixture until it reduces to half. This preparation is good for fever; take 1 teaspoon twice a day to reduce fever.   ● Tulsi Kadha Tulsi kadha is a very popular Ayurvedic remedy for common cough and cold. 15-20 fresh Tulsi leaves are boiled in water with 1 teaspoon of grated ginger and 7-8 dried kalimich. Boil the mixture for 10 minutes and add black salt and ½ lemon squeeze for added taste. Put off the flame and cool this mixture before straining it. Drink it warm for better effect.   ● Tulsi ka pani Tulsi ka pani or Tulsi water is a good antibiotic and antioxidant. Chop ½ cup of Tulsi leaves and add it to 2 cups of water. Boil for 15 minutes, then let it sit for 15 minutes with the lid on. Drink this in the morning.   ● Tulsi essential oil Mix Tulsi essential oil with coconut oil and apply it to the scalp with a gentle massage. This remedy is good for reducing dandruff when used 1-3 times a week.    ● Tulsi leaves paste Tulsi leaves paste mixed with honey is good for acne and scars. Apply it to the acne to reduce swelling and acne; it also promotes wound healing.    ● Tulsi toothpaste  Tulsi is great for oral health; that's why it is a commercial substance used in toothpaste. You can prepare Tulsi toothpaste at home by taking 1 teaspoon of Tulsi powder and mixing it with ½ teaspoon of mustard oil.    Possible side effects and precautions of Tulsi use 1. Tulsi reduces blood clotting and prolongs bleeding time. That's why precautions should be taken if any bleeding disorder is present or after surgery. 2. An allergic reaction might happen in persons who are hypersensitive or allergic to Tulsi or its constituent. Doctor's consultancy is required in that case. 3. It is recommended to use Tulsi leaf juice or paste with rose water or honey to manage its potency for hypersensitive skin. 4. Tulsi essential oil is a very concentrated and potent substance. It should always be diluted with coconut oil before applying it to the skin.    5. There is not enough research on Tulsi and breastfeeding relations. But precaution and doctor's consultancy should be taken before using Tulsi in this situation. 6. Tulsi causes uterine contraction; that's why it should be avoided in case of pregnancy as it might cause abortion. 7. Prolonged use of Tulsi can show some adverse effects on peoples like – hypoglycemia, antispermatogenic or antifertility, and bleeding time prolongation.   FAQ's about Tulsi   Can we chew Tulsi leaves raw? There is no harm in chewing Tulsi leaves raw. Chewing Tulsi leaves is very effective for maintaining good oral health; it can be a good economical alternative for oral supplements. But generally, swallowing of Tulsi leaves is preferred over chewing.   Is basil is a synonym for Tulsi? Science Ayurveda  You can say basil and Tulsi are from the same family, but they are quite different. Basil leaves are flavoring agents used for culinary purposes, and Tulsi is a religious herb which is used for its medicinal properties since ancient times.  In Ayurveda, many Ayurvedic practitioners use Tulsi because it has a lot of healing characteristics. In the Hindu religion, Tulsi is considered sacred, and it carries a lot of importance. Whereas basil has no such religious significance and is generally used as a flavoring agent in recipes.   How much water does a Tulsi plant needs? Tulsi plant needs sufficient water for its growth. Water the plant twice a day for better growth.   What is the religious significance of the Tulsi plant? Tulsi is considered a holy plant in the Hindu religion, and it is believed that it is the earthly embodiment of Goddess Tulsi. According to Hindu mythology, Tulsi Devi was a great worshipper of Lord Vishnu.    Should I dilute Tulsi drops with water before taking it? Science Ayurveda Tulsi drops are very potent and are present in a very concentrated form; the taste is very strong and pungent, and that's why taking it raw can cause acidity problems. That's why it is always recommended to take Tulsi drops with water. Tulsi drops due to its Ushna (hot) and potency should always be taken with water.   Why is Tulsi water good for health? Tulsi water is good for the body, mind, and spirit; it nurtures and nourishes while giving relaxation as it is a relaxing herb. Tulsi water is good for oral and eye health and clears any congestion in the head or respiratory tract. It is immunomodulatory, so it boosts the immune system. Tulsi is hepatoprotective, so it is good for kidney health and its functionality. Tulsi kadha is a great detoxifier, better than tea or coffee, as it does not cause any physical dependency or addiction.    How can you classify Tulsi according to Ayurveda? In Ayurveda, there are two types of Tulsi; one is "Krishna Tulsi," which is black/ darker in color, and "Rama Tulsi," which is green. But both variety has similar chemical constituents and medicinal properties.    How can Tulsi help to improve memory? Science Ayurveda Yes, Tulsi enhances memory and increases memory retention power. Too much stress can cause poor memory. Tulsi has bioactive constituents like Eugenol and ursolic acid, which reduces cortisol (stress hormone) levels in our body by preventing ACTH's action, which helps to manage stress and ultimately improves memory. Tulsi is a relaxing herb that calms the mind and positively affects memory and cognitive thinking. Regular consumption of Tulsi can also help in aging-induced memory deficits as it has antioxidant activity and protects neurons from damage.  Taking too much stress, not sleeping properly, and a weak nervous system causes poor memory and other memory disorders. Tulsi is great for reducing stress levels and its Vata balancing property gives sound sleep, thus improves memory. Tulsi's Rasayana (rejuvenating) property protects the nerves and improves the nervous system. That's why Ayurveda says regular consumption of Tulsi can affect memory positively and also manages other memory-related disorders.   Can we use Tulsi in case of toxic chemical-induced damage? The human body is prone to oxidative attacks, which degrade cells, and Tulsi can protect our body from these kinds of chemical-induced injury. The major antioxidant in Tulsi is glutathione (master antioxidant); it also enhances the functionality of other antioxidants like Superoxide dismutase and catalase. This antioxidant activity of Tulsi protects cells from free radical oxidative damage and also from other toxic agents.   Can Tulsi help in bleeding disorders? No, actually, Tulsi can cause a negative effect in case of bleeding disorders. Scientifically it is shown that Tulsi extract slows down blood clotting, so it promotes bleeding rather than stopping it. So it is strictly prohibited in case of any bleeding disorder or during and should be avoided after surgical procedures.    Can Tulsi cause acidity? Science Ayurveda We cannot say surely if consumption of Tulsi causes hyperacidity or not as there is not enough scientific data to prove this fact. Yes, excess consumption of Tulsi can cause acidity due to its Ushna (hot) potency. It can also create some problem in persons who already has some kind of digestive problems.   What are the health benefits of consuming Tulsi daily? Science Ayurveda Regular consumption of Tulsi can help in numerous health problems. As Tulsi has so many medicinal properties, it helps in common cold and cough, asthma, lung disorders, stomach and heart problems, infections (bacterial, viral, fungal). Tulsi also reduces stress levels and improves memory. Scientific studies have also shown that Tulsi can help in cancer due to its healing and antioxidant property. Tulsi is rich in vitamins like vitamin C, K, A, and other antioxidants, which promote overall health and longevity. Tulsi is used in Ayurveda since ancient times due to its medicinal properties. It is a great remedy for common cough and cold; it also acts as an expectorant and gives relief from congestion. Tulsi improves overall immunity and helps in asthma, bronchitis. It's Vata and Kapha balancing property helps to prevent infectious diseases. Tulsi improves digestion and reduces gastric problems (like bloating and flatulence) due to its Vata balancing, deepen, pachan properties.   How can Tulsi help with depression? Science Ayurveda Tulsi contains glutathione, vitamin C, and other antioxidants, which help reduce oxidative stress and relax and calming effect on the mind. The potassium content of Tulsi reduces blood pressure and give relief by lessening the tension of blood vessels. Unlike other synthetic drugs, Tulsi does not cause any side effects and is very beneficial for mental health, thus help with depression. According to Ayurveda, depression is a product of imbalance in Vata dosha (body energy). And as Tulsi manages Vata imbalance, it manages depression and reduces its symptoms to some extent.   Can Tulsi seeds be used for weight loss? Science Ayurveda Consuming Tulsi seeds can prevent hunger for a certain period of time as Tulsi seeds are rich in fibers, and it takes time for our stomach to process it. They are great dietary supplements as Tulsi seeds can expand up to 30 times after absorbing water. Not only do they give a feeling of fullness, but a teaspoon of Tulsi seeds has so many essential vitamins and minerals (like calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and iron and vitamins like A, B-complex, E, and K) while having very low calories. This helps in managing and reducing weight.  Tulsi seeds are a very good food supplement for reducing body weight. They are good Kapha balancers and have Shodhana (detoxifying) property; regular consumption of them flush the waste product out from the body and detoxifies it. This gives an overall lightness to the body and also reduces weight.   16. Can we consume Tulsi water for good health? Science Ayurveda Tulsi water is good for the body, mind, and spirit; it nurtures and nourishes while giving relaxation as it is a relaxing herb. Tulsi water is good for oral and eye health and clears any congestion in the head or respiratory tract. It is immunomodulatory, so it boosts the immune system. Tulsi is hepatoprotective, so it is good for kidney health and its functionality. Tulsi kadha is a great detoxifier, better than tea or coffee, as it does not cause any physical dependency or addiction. According to Ayurveda, Tulsi has Shodhana (detoxification) property, detoxifying our body and purifying the blood. It is beneficial for sore throat and is a great remedy for common cold and cough. It is beneficial for cough because Tulsi has Kapha balancing property, and cough generally occurs due to an imbalance in Kapha.   17. Can Conjunctivitis be cured with Tulsi? • There is not enough scientific data that can deduce a direct relation between Tulsi with conjunctivitis. Still, the anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties can prove beneficial in the case of conjunctivitis.   • Prepare Tulsi water by soaking 10-15 tulsi leaves in hot water for 10 minutes. Soak cotton pads in this freshly prepared Tulsi water and place the wet cotton over the eye. Repeat this process 3-4 times a day, and it will reduce the swelling and manages conjunctivitis.    18. Can we use Tulsi for acne? Science Ayurveda Yes, Tulsi is a great herb for acne as it gives a cooling effect to acne and reduces it. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties prevent any microbial growth and formation of pus. The topical application of Tulsi leaves reduces swelling of acne and gives relief from the pain. In Ayurveda, acne occurs due to imbalance in all three doshas, i.e., Vata, pitta, and Kapha, among which aggravation of pitta dosha is the main cause. Tulsi helps to manage these doshas. Yes, Tulsi is using (hot), and potent but external application of Tulsi induces healing and controls acne due to its Ropan (healing) property.   19. Is Tulsi good for wound healing? Science Ayurveda Yes, Tulsi promotes the healing of the wound. It does that by contracting the skin around the wound and promoting new skin formation, thus closing wound opening and healing. Tulsi possesses Ropan (healing) property, which naturally helps in wound healing. For wound healing, application of Tulsi paste to the wounded region is recommended.   20. How good is Tulsi for hair? Tulsi contains a sufficient amount of vitamin K, protein, and iron, which are essential for heart nutrition and growth. Tulsi oil is a great hair supplement; massaging the scalp with this oil increases blood circulation, which further improves the nutrition flow to the hair follicles, thus gives healthy, shiny, strong hair and also reduces itchiness and dandruff due to its antifungal and anti-inflammatory property.

Holy Basil, also known as Tulsi, is often considered the most venerable of all herbs. It is said to be the mother medicine of nature. Holy Basil has great medicinal benefits and in Ayurveda, It is considered to have spiritual properties too. The such a varied range of medicinal value makes this herb highly significant. A sacred plant with many medicinal properties The botanical name of Holy Basil is Ocimum tenuiflorum or Ocimum Sanctum. It is an aromatic perennial plant that is common in the Indian subcontinent. Holy Basil is different than the sweet Basil (Ocimum Basilicum) and the latter is mostly used for culinary purpose. In Sanskrit, Holy Basil has different names, such as Surasa, Bhutagni, and Tulasi. In Hinduism, Tulsi is a highly religious plant and worshipped as a goddess. Not just leaves, but its seeds, stems, flowers, and oil too are considered to be sacred. Holy Basil is believed to effectively clean the air of its pollutants, repel mosquitoes and flies, etc. Pacifies Kapha and Vata Doshas Holy Basil provides many health benefits according to Ayurveda. It placates Kapha and Vata Doshas. For Pitta constitution, it may, however, can cause aggravation. It has two variants, light green to green one called Rama Tulsi, and blackish green one called Krishna Tulsi. They both have similar herbal properties. The many health benefits of Holy Basil you should know about Holy Basil is an effective Kapha pacifier since it checks the mucous release. It has antiviral properties, which makes it an important herb in Ayurveda for the treatment of microbial infections. Owing to its hot potency and appetizing taste, holy basil can stimulate the digestive system, thus helping recover the lost or reduced appetite. The Kapha-relieving property of Holy Basil is also beneficial for the heart. It tends to decrease cholesterol accumulation in the arteries, toning the cardiac system in the process. Its properties as an adaptogen come instrumental in curing anxiety and stress problems, cold and cough, even hiccups can be contained or treated with Holy Basil. Holy Basil balances Vata and hence it is beneficial in case of quelling the excess gas formed in the stomach and helps relieve the pain caused by that. The herb has antiemetic properties too and helps relieve the vomiting tendency too. In many skin diseases, the discomfort of itching is quite usual. Tulsi can help subside such an irritation. It is also a great detoxifier and helps the body get rid of the toxins. Holy Basil is also used to treat kidney stone condition and eye infections. The herb is significantly curative for treating asthma patients as well as those who suffer from chronic respiratory diseases. The leaves, seeds, and roots of the Holy Basil plant are used for such medicinal usage. Holy Basil is also used to treat headache, bad breath (halitosis), wheals, sinusitis, and fever. The Tulsi Chai as the perfect immunity drink A Tulsi tea made with Holy Basil leaves, clove, and ginger is believed to be very effective against cold and cough as it boosts immunity. It should be noted that the tea should not contain any milk since Ayurveda does not prescribe taking milk with Tulsi as they are not compatible together. Many scientific studies have found that Holy Basil is full of medicinal benefits. It is considered to be antimicrobial (bacteria and virii eliminating), anxiolytic(stress-reducing), antilipidemic (lipid-lowering), antidiabetic (glucose-lowering), and antihepatotoxic (liver protective). Ayurveda, the ancient medicinal science is the most natural and effective treatment system for any disease. It also helps prevent the occurrence of illnesses and helps you maintain a healthy living. Consult an Ayurveda doctor today and stay well. Read more: 6 Immense Health Benefits Of Ashwagandha Observed In Scientific Studies