Did you know tulsi aka holy basil is referred to as “the queen of herbs”? And for good reason! For 4000 years, Ayurveda has used tulsi to treat a range of health issues, from treating a tiny insect bite to treating diabetes and migraines. Its healing powers are so intense that the plant is regarded as a very sacred herb in India.
Here are ten ways you could use tulsi.
1. Relieves Headaches
Tulsi’s anti-congestive and sedative properties can help relieve a pounding headache. People who suffer from constant migraines find having a cup of tulsi tea reduce their headache and relax them. It’s also a great remedy for people dealing with sinus issues.
2. Alleviates Stress
Feeling stressed out at the end of your day? Tulsi is a known adaptogen that can help calm your nerves and bring a relaxed emotional disposition. Adaptogens are herbs that can naturally help your mind and body to deal with stress. When you are facing a flight or fight situation, your body releases cortisol to deal with the invading stress. Tulsi can reduce the impact of emotional stressors by maintaining healthy cortisol levels.1
3. Reduces Blood Sugar Level
One study found out tulsi can reduce blood sugar levels. The study further revealed tulsi helped improve lipid profile and correct liver and kidney damage that is associated with a high blood glucose level.2
4. Boosts Energy
Low on stamina? Have a cup of tulsi tea. It can give you a boost of energy as well as increase your stamina and endurance. Ayurveda scriptures claim tulsi brings positivity in our bodies.
5. Improves Eye Health
Dealing with conjunctivitis? Or even sore eyes? Tulsi is there for all your eye problems. Its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties are beneficial to keep your eyes clean and healthy. Not to mention, it’s soothing effect on the eyes. Simply wash your eyes with water that has been soaked with tulsi leaves.
6. Reduces Fever
Tulsi is antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal. These features make it incredibly useful against an infection or a fever. Several studies suggest tulsi is beneficial for people suffering from urinary tract infection, typhoid, gonorrhea, dengue, and malaria.3
7. Protects Teeth And Gums
Tulsi has also been found to solve a range of dental problems. Because the plant is antibacterial, it can get rid of bacteria buildup that causes bad breath, cavities, and plaque. If you’re looking for a natural dental cleanup or even just a fresh burst of breath, create a mouthwash or a toothpaste using tulsi leaves.
8. Treats Insect Bites
One of the most known uses of tulsi is its healing powers to treat nasty insect bites. It’s effective, easy, and quick! Make a paste out of tulsi leaves with water and spread it on the affected area.
9. Soothes A Sore Throat
Tulsi is very effective to get rid of an itchy throat. It cleanses your throat from bacteria and germs. You could have a cup of tulsi tea with a little ginger for that extra push. Even chewing the leaves can give you relief from a prickly throat and a stuffy nose.
10. Aids Skin Care
Tulsi is very cooling on the skin. This, coupled with its antibacterial feature, makes tulsi great for the skin. One study found out it helped reduce acne, ringworm infection, as well as other skin infections.4
Tulsi is a safe, natural remedy with barely any side effects. The leaves, stem, root, seeds, and flower can be used. You could add it as a garnish in your dishes. The healthiest way is to chew the leaves directly or make tea out of it. We hope you too experience the healing powers of this wonderful plant!
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