Tulsi
Tulsi
Tulsi is a holy plant that has both medicinal and spiritual properties. In Ayurveda, it is known by different names such as "Mother Medicine of Nature" and "The Queen of Herbs".
Tulsi is beneficial in relieving cough and cold symptoms due to its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antitussive (cough-relieving) and anti-allergic properties. Taking a few leaves of Tulsi along with honey helps relieve cough and flu as it improves immune health. Taking Tulsi tea on a daily basis has a calming effect and helps reduce stress.
According to Ayurveda, Tulsi helps reduce asthmatic symptoms due to its Kapha-balancing property.
Tulsi is also useful in managing ringworm infection. Applying a paste of Tulsi leaves on the affected area helps prevent infection and also relieves inflammation as well as pain[1][2][4][16][18].
Tulsi is beneficial in relieving cough and cold symptoms due to its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antitussive (cough-relieving) and anti-allergic properties. Taking a few leaves of Tulsi along with honey helps relieve cough and flu as it improves immune health. Taking Tulsi tea on a daily basis has a calming effect and helps reduce stress.
According to Ayurveda, Tulsi helps reduce asthmatic symptoms due to its Kapha-balancing property.
Tulsi is also useful in managing ringworm infection. Applying a paste of Tulsi leaves on the affected area helps prevent infection and also relieves inflammation as well as pain[1][2][4][16][18].
What are the synonyms of Tulsi?
Ocimum sanctum, Holy Basil, Devdundubhi, Apetrakshsi, Sulbha, Bahumanjri, Gauri, Bhutghani, Vrinda, Ared Tulsi, Karitulasi, Gagger chettu, Tulashi, Tulas, Thai basil, Sacred basil, Dohsh, Tulasi, Kala Tulsi, Krishna Tulsi, Krishnamul, Manjari Tulsi, Vishnu priya, St. Joseph’s wort, Suvasa Tulsi, Raihan, Thiru Theezai, Shree Tulsi, Surasa
What is the source of Tulsi?
Plant Based
Benefits of Tulsi
Modern Science View
Tulsi is a well-known immunomodulatory herb that might improve the individual’s ability to fight against common cold. Tulsi has antimicrobial, anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory properties, therefore prevents the inflammation of the nasal mucous membrane. It also prevents the regular recurrence of the common cold symptoms[1][16]. Another study states that Tulsi helps gives relief from cough.
Ayurvedic View
Common cold is caused by an aggravation of Kapha and weak digestion. When the food we eat is not fully digested, it changes into Ama. This Ama reaches the respiratory system in the form of sputum and causes cold or a cough. Tulsi has Deepan (appetizer), Pachan (digestive) and Kapha balancing properties which help to reduce Ama and expel the excessive sputum from the body.
Tips to prepare Tulsi Kadha:
1. Take 10-12 Tulsi leaves, 1 teaspoon of grated ginger and 7-8 dried kalimirch.
2. Boil water in a pan, add Tulsi, grated ginger and kalimirch and boil for 10 minutes.
3. Add a pinch of black salt and squeeze ½ lemon to it.
4. Let it stand for 1 minute.
5. Strain and drink warm to control common cold and cough[5].
Tips to prepare Tulsi Kadha:
1. Take 10-12 Tulsi leaves, 1 teaspoon of grated ginger and 7-8 dried kalimirch.
2. Boil water in a pan, add Tulsi, grated ginger and kalimirch and boil for 10 minutes.
3. Add a pinch of black salt and squeeze ½ lemon to it.
4. Let it stand for 1 minute.
5. Strain and drink warm to control common cold and cough[5].
Modern Science View
Tulsi acts as an immunomodulator and prevents viral infection. It also has antipyretic and diaphoretic activity, which induces sweating and normalizes elevated body temperature[1][16].
Ayurvedic View
In Ayurveda, influenza is known as Vata Shleshmika Jwara which is due to the imbalance of the three doshas – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Tulsi helps manage influenza by balancing all the three doshas especially Kapha dosha by its Rasayana (rejuvenating) properties and helps boost immunity.
Tips to prepare Tulsi Kadha:
1. Take 10-12 Tulsi leaves, 1 teaspoon of grated ginger and 7-8 dried kalimirch.
2. Boil water in a pan, add Tulsi, grated ginger and kalimirch and boil for 10 minutes.
3. Add a pinch of black salt and squeeze ½ lemon to it.
4. Let it stand for 1 minute.
5. Strain and drink warm to manage Influenza symptoms[5].
Tips to prepare Tulsi Kadha:
1. Take 10-12 Tulsi leaves, 1 teaspoon of grated ginger and 7-8 dried kalimirch.
2. Boil water in a pan, add Tulsi, grated ginger and kalimirch and boil for 10 minutes.
3. Add a pinch of black salt and squeeze ½ lemon to it.
4. Let it stand for 1 minute.
5. Strain and drink warm to manage Influenza symptoms[5].
Modern Science View
Tulsi has immunomodulatory activity and prevents the regular recurrence of asthmatic symptoms. It also has anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory properties and reduces the inflammation of the mucous membrane of the bronchial tubes. Tulsi also acts as an expectorant that expels excess mucus from the lungs[1][16].
Ayurvedic View
Asthma is known as Swas Roga and the main doshas involved are Vata and Kapha. The vitiated ‘Vata’ combines with deranged ‘Kapha dosha’ in the lungs causing obstruction in the respiratory passage. This results in gasping and labored breathing. Tulsi has Kapha and Vata balancing properties which help to remove the obstruction and get relief in asthma.
Tip:
1. Take the juice of Tulsi leaves and mix in 1 teaspoon honey.
2. Consume 3-4 times daily[16].
Tip:
1. Take the juice of Tulsi leaves and mix in 1 teaspoon honey.
2. Consume 3-4 times daily[16].
Modern Science View
Due to its immunomodulatory and antimicrobial property, Tulsi enhances the immune system of the body. Tulsi has an antipyretic and diaphoretic activity that helps to induce sweating and normalizes the elevated body temperature during fever[16].
Ayurvedic View
The leaves of Tulsi can be used to reduce fever because it helps to improve immunity and fight against infection due to its Rasayana (rejuvenating) property.
Tips to prepare Tulsi Kadha:
1. Take 15 to 20 Tulsi leaves, 1 teaspoon of grated ginger and 7-8 dried kalimirch.
2. Boil water in a pan, add Tulsi, grated ginger and kalimirch and boil for 10 minutes.
3. Add a pinch of black salt and squeeze ½ lemon to it.
4. Let it stand for 1 minute.
5. Strain and drink warm to manage fever[5].
Tips to prepare Tulsi Kadha:
1. Take 15 to 20 Tulsi leaves, 1 teaspoon of grated ginger and 7-8 dried kalimirch.
2. Boil water in a pan, add Tulsi, grated ginger and kalimirch and boil for 10 minutes.
3. Add a pinch of black salt and squeeze ½ lemon to it.
4. Let it stand for 1 minute.
5. Strain and drink warm to manage fever[5].
Modern Science View
Tulsi is a well-known adaptogenic herb that might improve the individual’s ability to deal with stress. Stress increases the secretion of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) which in turn increases the cortisol levels (stress hormone) in the body. Eugenol and ursolic acid in Tulsi reduces the level of cortisol and help manage stress and stress-related problems. The immunostimulant capacity and antioxidant property of Tulsi might also contribute to its adaptogenic action[1][18].
Ayurvedic View
Stress can usually be attributed to an imbalance of Vata dosha, and is associated with insomnia, irritation and fear. Tulsi has the property of balancing Vata which helps to reduce stress when taken on a regular basis.
Tips to prepare Tulsi Kadha:
1. Take 10-12 Tulsi leaves and add it to 2 cups of water.
2. Boil it in a pan till the volume reduces to half a cup.
3. Allow it to cool to room temperature and strain the mixture.
4. Add 1 teaspoon of honey and mix well.
Tips to prepare Tulsi Kadha:
1. Take 10-12 Tulsi leaves and add it to 2 cups of water.
2. Boil it in a pan till the volume reduces to half a cup.
3. Allow it to cool to room temperature and strain the mixture.
4. Add 1 teaspoon of honey and mix well.
Modern Science View
Tulsi might be useful in managing diabetes and diabetes related complications. Studies suggest that Tulsi has hypoglycemic effect and decreases the elevated blood glucose levels by increasing insulin secretion and insulin sensitivity. Tulsi has antioxidant properties, protects the pancreatic cells and also reduces the risk of diabetic complications like impaired liver, kidney and cardiac functions[1][13].
Ayurvedic View
Diabetes also known as Madhumeha is due to an aggravation of Vata and impaired digestion. Impaired digestion leads to an accumulation of Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) in the pancreatic cells and impairs the function of insulin. Tulsi helps remove Ama and controls aggravated Vata due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties. This thus helps control high blood sugar level.
Modern Science View
Tulsi might be useful in preventing stress-related heart diseases. Eugenol and ursolic acid in Tulsi lowers the level of cortisol and help to reduce stress and stress-related problems like heart diseases. Tulsi also has antioxidant property which prevents cardiac lipid peroxidation caused by free radicals. This lowers the risk of heart diseases and helps maintain a healthy heart[15][16].
Ayurvedic View
Increase in cholesterol and blood pressure levels along with a stressful life can increase the risk of heart disease. Tulsi reduces the stress level due to its Vata balancing property and controls high cholesterol due to its Ama reducing nature. Together, it helps prevent the heart diseases.
Modern Science View
Tulsi might be useful in managing viral hepatitis. Tulsi has antiviral, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties because of which it protects the liver cells from the damage caused by the virus and free radicals. Therefore, Tulsi not only acts as a hepatoprotective agent but also helps restore the liver functions[1].
Ayurvedic View
Liver disorders are due to an aggravation of the Pitta dosha and poor Pachak Agni (digestive fire). This affects the liver function and later vitiates other doshas as well. Tulsi helps to improve Pachak Agni due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties and prevent toxin-induced damage of liver cells due to its Rasayana (rejuvenating) nature.
Modern Science View
Tulsi is known to have antimalarial activity. Eugenol in Tusli is the main constituent that has mosquito repellent property[1].
Modern Science View
Not enough scientific evidence is available to support the role of Tulsi in case of diarrhea.
Ayurvedic View
Tulsi manages digestion and gives relief in case of diarrhea by improving the Pachan Agni (digestive fire). It helps in proper digestion of food due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties and helps control diarrhea.
Modern Science View
Not enough scientific evidence is available to support the role of Tulsi in insomnia.
Ayurvedic View
An aggravated Vata dosha makes the nervous system sensitive which leads to Anidra (insomnia). Tulsi works as a relaxing herb and helps to get a good sleep by balancing the Vata dosha.
How effective is Tulsi?
Insufficient evidence
Asthma, Common cold, Diabetes, Diarrhea, Fever, Heart disease, Influenza (flu), Insomnia, Liver disease, Malaria, Stress
Precautions when using Tulsi
Advice from Experts
Modern Science View
1. Tulsi might prolong the bleeding time. Caution is advised in patients with bleeding disorders or taking drugs that may increase the risk of bleeding.
2. Although not well studied in human, Tulsi may have anti-spermatogenic (sperm-blocking) and antifertility effects.
2. Although not well studied in human, Tulsi may have anti-spermatogenic (sperm-blocking) and antifertility effects.
Allergy
Modern Science View
People who are allergic or hypersensitive to Tulsi or its constituents should use Tulsi under a doctor’s supervision[9].
Breastfeeding
Modern Science View
Not enough is known about the medicinal use of Tulsi during breastfeeding. Therefore, Tulsi should be taken under medical supervision during breastfeeding[3][9].
Patients with diabetes
Modern Science View
Tulsi may lower blood glucose level in people with diabetes. So it is generally advised to monitor the blood glucose level regularly while taking Tulsi along with anti-diabetic drugs[9].
Pregnancy
Modern Science View
Tulsi should be avoided during pregnancy as it may stimulate uterine contractions thereby increasing the risk of abortion[3[9]].
Side Effects
Important
Modern Science View
Tulsi is possibly safe and well tolerated among most of the people when taken by mouth for a short term[3][9].
Important
Modern Science View
In some people, long-term use of Tulsi may cause side effects like:
1. Low blood sugar
2. Antispermatogenic and anti-fertility effects.
3. Prolonged bleeding time
1. Low blood sugar
2. Antispermatogenic and anti-fertility effects.
3. Prolonged bleeding time
FAQs about Tulsi precautions
Recommended Dosage of Tulsi
- Tulsi Capsule - 1-2 capsules twice a day.
- Tulsi Tablet - 1-2 tablets twice a day.
- Tulsi Powder - ¼- ½ teaspoon twice a day.
- Tulsi Juice - 5-10 ml once day.
- Tulsi Drop - 1-2 drops twice a day.
- Tulsi Oil - 3-4 drops, 4-5 times a day.
How to use Tulsi
1. Tulsi Capsules
a. Take 1-2 capsules of Tulsi.
b. Swallow it with water twice daily.
2. Tulsi Tablets
a. Take 1-2 Tulsi tablets.
b. Swallow it with water, twice daily.
3. Tulsi Powder
a. Put ¼-½ teaspoon of Tulsi powder on the tongue.
b. Swallow it with water, twice daily.
4. Tulsi Drop
a. Add 1-2 Tulsi drops to 1 glass of lukewarm water.
b. Drink it 1-2 times a day.
5. Tulsi Leaves
A. Fresh Tulsi Leaves Daily
i. Take 5-7 fresh raw Tulsi leaves.
ii. Eat the leaves preferably in the morning.
B. Tulsi Tea
i. Add the fresh Tulsi leaves to 1½ cups of water.
ii. Boil on a medium flame for 10 minutes.
iii. Strain the water using a strainer.
iv. Add lemon juice and mix well.
v. Drink warm to get relief from cough and cold[5].
C. Shah jeera- Tulsi Pani
i. Take half a teaspoon of caraway (Shah jeera) and 5-6 leaves of Tulsi in a glass of water.
ii. Boil this mixture until the quantity reduces to half.
iii. Drink 1 teaspoon of this mixture twice a day until the fever reduces.
D. Tulsi Kadha
i. Take 15 to 20 Tulsi leaves, 1 teaspoon of grated ginger and 7-8 dried kalimirch.
ii. Boil water in a pan, add Tulsi, grated ginger and kalimirch and boil for 10 minutes.
iii. Add a pinch of black salt and squeeze ½ lemon to it.
iv. Let it stand for 1 minute.
v. Strain and drink warm to get rid of cough and cold[5].
E. Tulsi ka pani
i. Add ½ cup of chopped Tulsi leaves and 2 cups of water in a pan.
ii. Boil for 15 minutes.
iii. Cover with a lid and keep aside for 15 minutes.
iv. Drink this water in the morning and evening for its antibiotic and antioxidant properties[5].
F. Tulsi ki chutney
i. Add ½ cup of Tulsi leaves and raw mango in a blender.
ii. Now add black salt and sugar according to your taste.
iii. Blend properly to form a paste.
iv. Store in the refrigerator and have it with meals.
a. Take 1-2 capsules of Tulsi.
b. Swallow it with water twice daily.
2. Tulsi Tablets
a. Take 1-2 Tulsi tablets.
b. Swallow it with water, twice daily.
3. Tulsi Powder
a. Put ¼-½ teaspoon of Tulsi powder on the tongue.
b. Swallow it with water, twice daily.
4. Tulsi Drop
a. Add 1-2 Tulsi drops to 1 glass of lukewarm water.
b. Drink it 1-2 times a day.
5. Tulsi Leaves
A. Fresh Tulsi Leaves Daily
i. Take 5-7 fresh raw Tulsi leaves.
ii. Eat the leaves preferably in the morning.
B. Tulsi Tea
i. Add the fresh Tulsi leaves to 1½ cups of water.
ii. Boil on a medium flame for 10 minutes.
iii. Strain the water using a strainer.
iv. Add lemon juice and mix well.
v. Drink warm to get relief from cough and cold[5].
C. Shah jeera- Tulsi Pani
i. Take half a teaspoon of caraway (Shah jeera) and 5-6 leaves of Tulsi in a glass of water.
ii. Boil this mixture until the quantity reduces to half.
iii. Drink 1 teaspoon of this mixture twice a day until the fever reduces.
D. Tulsi Kadha
i. Take 15 to 20 Tulsi leaves, 1 teaspoon of grated ginger and 7-8 dried kalimirch.
ii. Boil water in a pan, add Tulsi, grated ginger and kalimirch and boil for 10 minutes.
iii. Add a pinch of black salt and squeeze ½ lemon to it.
iv. Let it stand for 1 minute.
v. Strain and drink warm to get rid of cough and cold[5].
E. Tulsi ka pani
i. Add ½ cup of chopped Tulsi leaves and 2 cups of water in a pan.
ii. Boil for 15 minutes.
iii. Cover with a lid and keep aside for 15 minutes.
iv. Drink this water in the morning and evening for its antibiotic and antioxidant properties[5].
F. Tulsi ki chutney
i. Add ½ cup of Tulsi leaves and raw mango in a blender.
ii. Now add black salt and sugar according to your taste.
iii. Blend properly to form a paste.
iv. Store in the refrigerator and have it with meals.
Benefits of Tulsi
Modern Science View
Due to its antimicrobial activity, Tulsi might be applied locally to manage ringworm infection[1][4
Ayurvedic View
Ringworm is known as Dadru in Ayurveda and ringworm with itching and burning sensation is due to an imbalance of Kapha and Pitta dosha. Tulsi helps to control ringworm and itching associated with it due to its Ruksha (dry) and Kapha pacifying properties.
Tip:
1. Apply the juice of Tulsi leaves on a regular basis to control ringworm infection.
2. Or, take 2-3 Tulsi leaves and crush and mix with coconut oil to make a paste.
3. Apply to the affected area 2-3 times a day.
4. This paste can be safely used in children with ringworm infections.
Tip:
1. Apply the juice of Tulsi leaves on a regular basis to control ringworm infection.
2. Or, take 2-3 Tulsi leaves and crush and mix with coconut oil to make a paste.
3. Apply to the affected area 2-3 times a day.
4. This paste can be safely used in children with ringworm infections.
Modern Science View
Not enough scientific evidence is available to support the role of Tulsi in case of headache.
Ayurvedic View
Tulsi helps manage headache due to sinusitis which occurs due to an imbalance of Kapha and Vata Dosha. Tulsi reduces congestion and heaviness in the head associated with sinusitis by balancing both Vata and Kapha dosha.
Tip
1. Simply add hot water and Tulsi leaves to a large pot.
2. Make sure the water is hot and steamy.
3. Cover your head with a towel.
4. Inhale the steam for 10-15 minutes or until the headache starts to subside.
Tip
1. Simply add hot water and Tulsi leaves to a large pot.
2. Make sure the water is hot and steamy.
3. Cover your head with a towel.
4. Inhale the steam for 10-15 minutes or until the headache starts to subside.
Modern Science View
Due to its anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antihistamine properties, Tulsi might be useful in treating snake and scorpion bites when applied externally[17].
Ayurvedic View
Tulsi might help in case of an animal bite due to its Ropan (healing) property.
Tip:
Apply Tulsi paste or oil can on the affected area to heal and prevent infection.
Tip:
Apply Tulsi paste or oil can on the affected area to heal and prevent infection.
Modern Science View
Due to its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antiallergic property, Tulsi might be useful in reducing the earache associated with any microbial infection or allergic reaction[19].
How effective is Tulsi?
Insufficient evidence
Animal bite, Ear pain, Headache, Ringworm
Precautions when using Tulsi
Allergy
Modern Science View
People who are allergic or hypersensitive to Tulsi or its constituents should use Tulsi under a doctor’s supervision[9].
Ayurvedic View
Tip:
1. Use Tulsi leaf juice or paste with honey or rose water if your skin is hypersensitive.
2. Use Tulsi essential oil by diluting it with coconut oil before applying to the skin due to its Ushna (hot) potency.
1. Use Tulsi leaf juice or paste with honey or rose water if your skin is hypersensitive.
2. Use Tulsi essential oil by diluting it with coconut oil before applying to the skin due to its Ushna (hot) potency.
Recommended Dosage of Tulsi
- Tulsi Juice - 5-10 ml or as per your requirement.
- Tulsi Oil - 2-5 drops or as per your requirement.
- Tulsi Paste - 2-4 gm or as per your requirement.
- Tulsi Powder - 2-5 gm or as per your requirement.
How to use Tulsi
1. Tulsi Toothpaste
a. Take some Tulsi leaves.
b. Dry them under the sun.
c. Crush and make powder of the leaves.
d. Mix 1 teaspoon of leaves powder with ½ teaspoon of mustard oil.
e. Use it as a toothpaste for brushing the teeth to maintain oral hygiene[12].
2. Tulsi Sandalwood Pack
a. Take some Tulsi leaves.
b. Dry them under the sun.
c. Crush and make powder of the leaves.
d. Now take a raw sandalwood stick and rub it intensely against a roller board with few drops of water to form a paste.
e. Now mix the Tulsi leaves with the sandalwood paste.
f. Apply this paste on your head, let it dry and wash with lukewarm water to get relief from a headache.
g. You can also use this paste on the face to control acne[12].
3. Tulsi leaves Juice or Paste with Honey
a. Take the juice or paste of Tulsi leaves.
b. Add honey to it.
c. Apply once a day to control acne and scars.
4. Tulsi essential oil with Coconut oil
a. Take Tulsi essential oil.
b. Add coconut oil to it.
c. Apply on the scalp 1-3 times a week to control dandruff.
a. Take some Tulsi leaves.
b. Dry them under the sun.
c. Crush and make powder of the leaves.
d. Mix 1 teaspoon of leaves powder with ½ teaspoon of mustard oil.
e. Use it as a toothpaste for brushing the teeth to maintain oral hygiene[12].
2. Tulsi Sandalwood Pack
a. Take some Tulsi leaves.
b. Dry them under the sun.
c. Crush and make powder of the leaves.
d. Now take a raw sandalwood stick and rub it intensely against a roller board with few drops of water to form a paste.
e. Now mix the Tulsi leaves with the sandalwood paste.
f. Apply this paste on your head, let it dry and wash with lukewarm water to get relief from a headache.
g. You can also use this paste on the face to control acne[12].
3. Tulsi leaves Juice or Paste with Honey
a. Take the juice or paste of Tulsi leaves.
b. Add honey to it.
c. Apply once a day to control acne and scars.
4. Tulsi essential oil with Coconut oil
a. Take Tulsi essential oil.
b. Add coconut oil to it.
c. Apply on the scalp 1-3 times a week to control dandruff.
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
No, chewing Tulsi leaves can be considered as effective and economical alternate option for maintaining good oral health. But, generally it is said that Tulsi leaves should be swallowed[8].
Modern Science View
Basil leaves are used as a flavoring agent for culinary purpose whereas Tulsi is a religious herb with a number of medicinal properties.
Ayurvedic View
Tulsi has a lot of healing characteristics and is used by Ayurvedic practitioners and is considered sacred as it carries a lot of importance in the Hindu religion. Basil, on the other hand, has no religious significance associated to it and is used to add flavor in a dish.
Modern Science View
Tulsi (Holy Basil) plant should be watered twice a day for better growth.
Modern Science View
Tulsi is a sacred plant in Hindu belief and is considered as an earthly embodiment of Goddess Tulsi who was a great worshipper of Lord Vishnu.
Modern Science View
No Tulsi drops should not be taken without water since it has a strong pungent taste and can cause acidity.
Ayurvedic View
Tulsi drops should always be taken with water due to its Ushna (hot) potency.
Modern Science View
Yes, Tulsi water nurtures and nourishes the body, mind and spirit while giving a sense of relaxation and well-being. Tulsi helps promote oral and eye care, clears up congestion and respiratory conditions and boosts the immune system. Tulsi also helps to stimulate kidney function and detoxifies the body without causing any physical dependency like tea or coffee.
Ayurvedic View
According to Ayurveda, there are two varieties of Tulsi, “Krishna Tulsi" (Black) and "Rama Tulsi” (Green) with similar chemical constituents and medicinal properties.
Modern Science View
Yes, Tulsi is known to have memory enhancement property. Eugenol and ursolic acid in Tulsi reduces the level of cortisol and helps to manage stress and stress-related problems like poor memory. Tulsi relaxes and calms the mind and regular consumption of Tulsi may show positive effects on the memory and cognitive function. Tulsi also protects against aging-induced memory deficits[1].
Ayurvedic View
Sleeplessness, stress and a weak nervous system are the main causes of poor memory or memory disorder. Tulsi helps to improve memory by controlling stress and gives sound sleep by balancing Vata. It also helps improve the nervous system due to its Rasayana property. Therefore, regular use of Tulsi might help improve the memory of a person.
Modern Science View
Tulsi can protect against toxic chemical-induced injury by increasing the body's levels of antioxidant molecules such as glutathione and enhancing the activity of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase and catalase. This helps in cell protection and scavenging free radicals caused by lack of oxygen and other toxic agents[1].
Modern Science View
Studies state that consumption of Tulsi extracts might slow blood clotting and increase the risk of bleeding. So avoid Tulsi in case of any bleeding disorders and during or after any surgical procedures[3][9].
Modern Science View
Not enough scientific evidence is available to state the cause of hyperacidity due to Tulsi.
Ayurvedic View
Yes Tulsi might cause hyperacidity in people with digestive problems and if it is taken in an excess amount due to its Ushna potency.
Modern Science View
Daily consumption of Tulsi leaves might help prevent diseases like cough, cold, flu, asthma, infections (bacterial, viral, fungal), stomach and heart problems, lung disorders and even cancers among others due to its ability to heal the body and adapt to different stresses. Tulsi being rich in vitamin C, K, A and other antioxidants promotes general health, well-being, longevity and has a positive effect on the memory[21][22].
Ayurvedic View
Regular intake of Tulsi might help prevent cold-cough problems by preventing excessive generation of sputum. It helps in the management of asthma and bronchitis by improving immunity and is also beneficial to prevent infectious diseases due to its Kapha balancing property. Tulsi also helps in reducing certain gastric problems like flatulence or bloating to some extent due to it’s Vata balancing, Deepan (appetiser) and Pachan (digestion) properties.
Modern Science View
Yes, Vitamin C and other antioxidants present in Tulsi help reduce toxic stress by relaxing and calming the mind. Potassium in Tulsi also reduces blood pressure-related stress by loosening the tensed blood vessels. Like yoga, Tulsi has a calming effect and it doesn't cause any side effects like synthetic drugs[23][24].
Ayurvedic View
Depression is a state of mind that occurs due to an imbalance of Vata Dosha. Taking Tulsi regularly helps relieve the symptoms of depression like stress to some extent due to its Vata balancing property.
Modern Science View
Yes, Tulsi seeds are rich in fiber thus they makes your stomach full and curbs hunger for a certain period of time. After soaking in water, Tulsi seeds have the capacity to expand to 30 times their original size thus making an excellent natural diet supplement. A teaspoon of Tulsi seeds is less in calories and is loaded with vitamins and minerals - including calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and iron along with vitamins A, B-complex, E and K - all of which are essential for weight management[25].
Ayurvedic View
Tulsi seeds are really helpful in reducing body weight if taken on a regular basis due to its Kapha balancing and Shodhana (detoxifying) properties. It helps to flush out the waste products out of the body thereby promoting a feeling of lightness in the body. It is generally advisable to avoid taking Tulsi seeds during pregnancy.
Modern Science View
Yes, Tulsi water nurtures and nourishes the body, mind and spirit while giving a sense of relaxation and well-being. Tulsi helps promote oral and eye care, clears up congestion and respiratory conditions and boosts the immune system. Tulsi also helps to stimulate kidney function and detoxifies the body without causing any physical dependency like tea or coffee[1].
Ayurvedic View
Tulsi water helps in detoxifying the body and purifying the blood due to its Shodhana (detoxification) property. Sore throat and cough which occur due to an imbalanced Kapha dosha can also be managed by Tulsi water due to its Kapha balancing property.
Modern Science View
Although enough research has not been done, Tulsi can be used to manage conjunctivitis due to its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties.
Tip:
1. Soak about a handful of Tulsi leaves in hot water for 10 mins.
2. Dip clean cotton pads in the water and place it over the eye.
3. Repeat this 3-4 times in a day.
Tip:
1. Soak about a handful of Tulsi leaves in hot water for 10 mins.
2. Dip clean cotton pads in the water and place it over the eye.
3. Repeat this 3-4 times in a day.
Modern Science View
Yes, Tulsi is good for controlling acne. It has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties and reduces pain and inflammation around acne when applied topically[4].
Ayurvedic View
Acne is due to an imbalance of all the three doshas i.e., Vata, Pitta and Kapha but the main cause is an aggravation of the Pitta dosha. Although Tulsi has Ushna (hot) potency, it helps control acne when applied externally due to its Ropan (healing) property.
Modern Science View
Tulsi accelerates the wound healing process by increasing wound contraction and promoting the formation of new skin cells[15].
Ayurvedic View
Tulsi helps in wound healing by promoting the repair mechanism in a natural way due to its Ropan (healing) properties.
Tip:
Apply the juice or paste of Tulsi leaves on the affected area to promote the healing mechanism.
Tip:
Apply the juice or paste of Tulsi leaves on the affected area to promote the healing mechanism.
Modern Science View
Yes, Tulsi contains an adequate amount of vitamin K, protein and iron which are essential for healthy and shiny hair. Massaging your scalp with Tulsi oil promotes blood circulation which further helps in reducing itchiness, hairfall and dandruff due to its antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties[20].
References
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- Sumina S, Lahon K, Pandian J, et al. Evaluation of Acute Anxiolytic and Antidepressant Activity of Ethanolic Extract of Ocimum sanctum (Tulsi) Leaf in Wistar Albino Rats.RJPBCS.2016;7(4):2944-2951.
- Pattanayak P, Behera P, Das D, et al.Ocimum sanctum Linn. A reservoir plant for therapeutic applications: An overview. Pharmacogn Rev.2010;4(7):95–105. Singh PH, editor. Rasayana: Ayurvedic Herbs for Longevity and Rejuvenation.India: 2002. pp. 272–80.
- Singh PH, editor. Rasayana: Ayurvedic Herbs for Longevity and Rejuvenation.India: 2002. pp. 272–80.
- Dnyaneshwar DS, Sonali C. A critical review on anti-scorpion activity of herbs. IAMJ.2016;4(11).
- Singh N, Verma P, Pandey BR, et al. Therapeutic potential of Ocimum sanctum in prevention and treatment of cancer and exposure to radiation: An overview. IJPSDR.2012;4(2):97-104.
- Jamshidi N, Cohen MM. The clinical efficacy and safety of Tulsi in humans: A systematic review of the literature. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine.2017.
- Balakumar S.Anti-fungal activity of Ocimum sanctum Linn. (Lamiaceae) on clinically isolated dermatophytic fungi.Asian. Paci J. Trop. Med.2011;654-657.
- Cohen MM.Tulsi - Ocimum sanctum: A herb for all reasons.J Ayurveda Integr Med.2014;5(4):251–259.
- Mohan L, Amberkar MV, Kumari M.Ocimum sanctum linn. (TULSI)-an overview.Int J Pharm Sci Rev Res.2011;7:51–53.
- Chatterjee M, Verma P, Maurya R et al.Evaluation of ethanol leaf extract of Ocimum sanctum in experimental models of anxiety and depression.Pharm Biol. 2011;49:477–483.
- Sumina S, Lahon K, Pandian J et al.Evaluation of acute anxiolytic and antidepressant activity of ethanolic extract of Ocimum sanctum (Tulsi) leaf in wistar albino rats.RJPBCS.2016;7(4):2944-2951.
- Pino J, Rosado A, Goire I et al.Analysis of the essential oil from cuban basil (Ocimum basilicum L.).Nahrung. Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co.37(5):501–504.
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.