If there’s one thing the world collectively agrees upon, it’s the almost-magical, medicinal values of tulsi. Tulsi, also known as the holy basil, is a herb that has existed for thousands of years. In India, it has a deep association with the Hindu mythology as well as Ayurveda. Across the rest of southeast Asia, too, the herb is well-known for its numerous health benefits.
There are many different types of tulsi in the world and India’s home to four of them. Naturally, over the course of time, tulsi has become an important part of our lives. From lifestyle products to medicines and more, there are a ton of tulsi-infused products to help us make the most of the various benefits of tulsi leaves.
On that note, read on for a guide on all things to tulsi.
Benefits Of Tulsi Leaves
Here are the various benefits of tulsi leaves:
1. Good For Digestion
One of the most important health benefits of tulsi leaves is that it makes everyday life easy by keeping a check on our digestive systems. Whether it’s relief from acidity, a digestive disorder, or just an upset stomach, tulsi can cure pretty much anything.
2. Prevents Infections
Tulsi is antibacterial, antiviral, as well as anti-inflammatory in nature. Which means that it can fight off all kinds of infections. Applying some form of tulsi on a wound can also make it heal faster.
3. Regulates Blood Sugar Levels
Studies have shown that one of the many benefits of eating tulsi leaves, or consuming the herb in any form, is that it can regulate blood sugar levels in diabetic people by increasing insulin sensitivity.
4. Anti-Aging Effect
Some people start their day with a glass of tulsi water and that’s done wonders for their skin. This is because one of the major benefits of drinking tulsi water in the morning is that it is a rich source of antioxidants, like vitamin C and A, which can protect your skin from damage-causing free radicals.
5. Pain Reliever
Tulsi also has analgesic properties, which means that it can help relieve different kinds of pains in your body. Tulsi is immensely beneficial for people with arthritis or fibromyalgia.
6. Prevents Stomach Ulcers
By increasing stomach acid and increasing mucus secretion in the stomach, tulsi can also prevent the occurrence of painful stomach ulcers. This is much better than regular medication for the same as the latter might have side effects.
How To Consume Tulsi Leaves?
Out of all the different types of tulsi, it’s the holy basil that is the most popular. Its plethora of medicinal benefits have made it a popular ingredient in Ayurveda as well. Many people prefer to grow a tulsi plant at home so that it’s convenient to consume the leaves. However, here’s the thing about tulsi leaves: You should not chew them. This is because tulsi leaves contain mercury which, when chewed, gets released into your mouth and can potentially damage the enamel of your teeth.
But rest assured that there are plenty of other ways to make tulsi leaves a part of your routine. The simplest and most beneficial way is by drinking tulsi water in the morning.
Here’s a stepwise guide to consuming tulsi leaves with water:
Step 1: Boil Water
Take 200 ml water in a pan and set it on the stove.
Step 2: Boil Tulsi Leaves
Add 3 - 4 tulsi leaves to the water and bring it to a boil.
Step 3: Strain Tulsi-Infused Water
Strain the tulsi-infused water while pouring it into a cup.
Step 4: Add Sweetener (Optional)
You can add a teaspoon of honey, sugar, or lemon to this before stirring and consuming.
Are There Any Side Effects Of Tulsi?
There are many benefits of eating tulsi leaves, but what about the potential side effects? Here are some side effects of consuming tulsi leaves that you should be looking out for:
- Studies have shown that tulsi can negatively impact pregnant women by causing uterine contractions. Excessive long-term consumption of tulsi may hamper the health of both the mother and the baby.
- Another side effect of tulsi leaves is that it might cause an excessive drop in blood sugar levels of diabetic patients who are already on medication for the same.
- Tulsi is known to cause thinning of the blood. However, if a person is already on medication for the same, taking tulsi might negatively impact their health.
- Tulsi contains mercury. Hence, chewing tulsi leaves is not recommended as it can negatively impact the enamel.
Different Types Of Tulsi Products Available
Herbal Hills Panch Hills Tulsi Drops
A natural immunity booster, the Herbal Hills Panch Hills Tulsi Drops is a unique formulation containing three different types of tulsi extracts: the vishnu priya tulsi, rama tulsi, and bisva tulsi. From relieving common cough and cold to fighting oxidative stress, the Panch tulsi drops is an excellent supplement to take for your overall wellness. They are also natural, vegan, and chemical-free!
Upakarma Ayurveda Tulsi Drops
The Upakarma Ayurveda Tulsi Drops is a formulation of five types of tulsi extracts. Made with no added preservatives, these tulsi drops can be a rich source of nutrients in your daily life. And guess what? These tulsi drops can benefit your skin and hair quality as well, as tulsi is a rich source of vitamin C. No artificial coloring, no preservatives, and no sweeteners — these drops are all natural and safe for regular consumption.
Nectar Valley Tulsi leaf Powder
The Nectar Valley Tulsi leaf Powder is the perfect remedy for all your hair woes. This multipurpose, super-fine powder can totally get rid of problems like itching, irritation, flaky skin, and dandruff. Just take a spoonful of this organic and natural tulsi leaf powder and mix it in a glass of water, milk, or juice. Improved digestive health and a stronger immune system are some of the many benefits of having tulsi juice, milk, or water regularly. Thanks to its nutritional properties, you can use this tulsi powder for your face as well.
Himalaya Wellness Pure Herbs Tulasi Respiratory Wellness
Whether it’s a chest congestion, an allergic reaction, or a common cold, the Himalaya Wellness Pure Herbs Tulasi Respiratory Wellness will help you get through it all. These tulsi tablets are great for when you’re traveling and don’t have access to your regular cuppa (tulsi tea). Just pop one of these whenever necessary and keep your health in check even when you’re on-the-go!
Kapiva Ayurveda Wild Tulsi Giloy Juice (Natural Juice for Building Immunity)- No Added Sugar
There’s no medicinal duo as potent as tulsi and giloy. When blended, tulsi giloy juice can cure a number of issues like body aches, high blood sugar levels, and more. Another major benefit of consuming giloy and tulsi juice is that it can also help treat viral infections and improve your vision.
Himalaya Wellness Tulasi Syrup
The Himalaya Wellness Tulasi Syrup is an instant medicinal remedy for seasonal cold and recurrent respiratory infections. Appropriate for both children and adults, this tulsi syrup should definitely be a part of your first aid kit. It not only boosts immunity but also calms and dilates the lung’s airways, thus relieving chest congestion.
FAQs On Tulsi
1. What are the benefits of drinking tulsi tea?
Here are some benefits of drinking tulsi tea regularly:
- Starting your day with a warm cup of tulsi tea can improve your digestion.
- Tulsi has anti-inflammatory properties. Hence, drinking tulsi tea can help relieve joint pains associated with arthritis.
- Drinking tulsi tea can help fight off bacteria in the mouth.
- Tulsi tea can help maintain blood sugar levels.
2. What is the English name for tulsi?
Tulsi is often referred to as holy basil in English. Its scientific name is ocimum tenuiflorum.
3. Can I drink tulsi tea every day?
Yes, it is perfectly safe to consume tulsi tea every day.
4. Suggest some tulsi products
- Kapiva Ayurveda Tulsi Giloy Green Tea
- HealthVit Tulsi Drop Juice
- Inlife Tulsi (tulasi) Holy Basil Supplement
5. How many types of tulsi are there?
In India, there are four different types of tulsi, or holy basil, plants:
- Rama Tulsi
- Vana Tulsi
- Kapoor Tulsi
- Krishna Tulsi
