TULSI (Holy Basil)
Tulsi, or Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum) has been highly valued as an Ayurvedic herb for thousands of years. The legendary herb has been used in spiritual and religious ceremonies as well as for protection from day-to-day illnesses. It has been called the “elixir of life” due to its wide range of healing properties. The essential oils of Holy Basil are often used, as are the leaves, roots, stems, and flowers. It first grew wild in Northern India, but now grows well in almost any tropical or subtropical region. The leaves of Tulsi are dark green, and the berries the bush produces are dark purple in color.
Benefits of TULSI
Tulsi has many benefits due to its phytonutrients. Holy Basil is:
- Naturally antibiotic
- Germicidal
- Fungicidal
- Naturally disinfecting
- Mildly sedative
- Reduces anxiety and depression
- Reduces chronic inflammation
- Has been used to fight typhoid, malaria, and other diseases
- Helps Diabetics
- Eases menopausal symptoms
- Lowers high blood pressure
- Fights against stress (calms the nervous system and neurochemistry created by stress)
- Is mildly sedative
- Cures respiratory distress such as asthma
- Is an excellent mouth freshener, cavity fighter
- Can be mildly diuretic and can help with kidney stones
- Reduces migraines
- Relieves skin problems
- Is considered an anti-aging and overall tonic in Ayurvedic medicine
How Does Tulsi Work?
Tulsi works primarily by promoting the immune system. It is an adaptogenic herb which works with your body to restore balance. In studies the herb has been found to significantly increase the levels of two potent immune mediators - Th1 and Th2 cytokines (interferon-gamma and interleukin-4) over a baseline in the basil group, when compared to baseline and the placebo group.
Tulsi has been found to protect organs and tissues against chemical stress from industrial pollutants and heavy metals, and physical stress from prolonged physical exertion, physical strain, and exposure to cold, excessive noise and other stressors of modern life.
It’s anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties are so significant, Tulsi has been proven to halt the growth of Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, all harmful pathogens which are usually resistant to pharmaceutical antibiotics.
Tulsi also helps to modulate the entire metabolic system, down to a cellular level. It balances blood sugar levels, lipids (fats), and reduces high blood pressure.
Compounds such as Vitamin C, Camphene, Eugenol and Cineole are all high in Tulsi.
Suggested Dosage
BeHerbal’s Tulsi is sourced only with high quality ingredients. It is suggested to take 500mg of the leaf extract taken twice daily for neurological and adaptogenic effects of holy Basil.
Side Effects of Tulsi
Side effects of any type are unusual and mild, as Tulsi has been used medicinally for centuries.
*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult your qualified healthcare provider before beginning any diet or program.
Image credit: http://www.lgbotanicals.com/assets/images/holy-basil-ocimum-sanctum-2.jpg
