Tulsi, the Ayurvedic herb is highly valued owing to its indispensable medicinal, therapeutic and culinary properties. A native plant of India, it is a widely grown sacred herb in many Indian homes. Tulsi, also known as holy basil is consumed in all forms dried, fresh, powdered or just simply chewing a few tulsi leaves offers you with incredible healing benefits. Tulsi is famed as “Elixir of Life” or “Queen of herbs” for its umpteen health benefits.
Tulsi is scientifically termed as Ocimum sanctum, it is a member of the mint family which is closely related to culinary basil (Ocimum basilicum) however, it is differentiated by its medicinal properties and physical features. Tulsi leaves has a strong aroma and astringent flavour that had been used in Ayurveda more than 5000 years to treat respiratory, digestive, skin, inflammatory and eye disorders.
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The easiest way of integrating the goodness of tulsi is by incorporating it to the food we eat or drink. One such preparation that has earned great medicinal values and benefits is tulsi tea. This tea has powerful anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, stimulating and stress-relieving properties which makes it the ideal choice of beverage in natural healing.
Therapeutic Properties Of Tulsi Tea:
Tulsi leaves is bestowed with a myriad of complex biochemical compounds including eugenol, urosli acid, carvarcol, apigenin, luteolin and other flavonoids. Besides these, it comprises potent terpenes like linalool, limatrol, rosmarinic acid, propanoic acid, saponins and tannins. While brewing tulsi leaves in water, all of these essential phytochemicals are seeped into the water, making the tea an extremely rich healing concoction and one of the purest, healthiest natural beverages. Moreover, it also imbued with essential nutrients like vitamin A, C, calcium, zinc, iron and chlorophyll which is valuable in healing the body and mind.
Drinking tulsi tea offers many health benefits right from balancing your senses to bolstering the immune system, enhancing the skin glow, treating kidney stones and losing those stubborn fats.
Here are 5 astonishing reasons why you should add this health tonic in your regular diet regimen.
Wellness Incentives Of Tulsi Tea:
Combats Infection
Tulsi tea possesses strong antibacterial, antifungal, antimycotic, antiviral and antimicrobial properties as it is loaded with high amounts of flavonoids, terpenoids and phenolic acids. Consuming tulsi tea assures to alleviate bacterial, fungal and viral infections. While it can also lower the risk of inflammation caused due to harmful pathogens and stimulate the health of the respiratory, nervous, dental and excretory system.
Treats Respiratory Problems
Ayurvedic medicine strongly vouches by Tulsi leaves for treating breathing problems like asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia, common cold and cough. The goodness of phytochemical compounds like eugenol, camphene and cineole in tulsi tea works wonders as an expectorant which helps to clear out phlegm and mucus. Sipping warm tulsi tea regularly facilitates in uplifting respiratory health and prevents cold from worsening into severe respiratory disorders.
Eases Stress And Anxiety
Stress has become one of the most common issues among people in the current situation which takes a toll on health. It is often associated with depression, anxiety and insomnia. Tulsi tea with vast reserves of flavonoids acts as antidepressants and stimulate the production of neurotransmitters that can lessen anxiety and keep you relaxed and calm. Apart from this, regular addition of tulsi tea supports to regulate heart rhythm, sleep cycle, bolster memory and cognition and also prevent neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s.
Augments Heart Health
Immense amounts of ursolic acid and other phytochemicals in tulsi leaves exhibit potent cardioprotective properties. The phytochemicals in tulsi tea scavenge free radicals in the blood, prevent the coagulation of cholesterol on the blood walls and stimulate blood flow to all the vital organs and thus control blood pressure. Furthermore, minerals like potassium and calcium in tulsi tea shield the heart from myocardial infarction, heart attack and oxidative stress.
Promotes Weight Loss
Tulsi tea can act as a digestive aid by enhancing the secretion of gastric juices which assists in the smooth functioning of the digestive system. The strong anti-ulcerogenic properties avert pepsin secretion and lipid peroxidation and increase the production of gastric mucin and mucous cells which guards the gastrointestinal tract against acid and pathogen attack. Drinking tulsi tea on daily basis supports quick assimilation of carbs and proteins, the fat gets broken down slowly which thereby control hunger pangs and keep you satiated and shed excess fat.
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Manages Diabetes
Enriched with powerful hypoglycemic property, Tulsi is pivotal in alleviating the blood sugar levels of the body. The production of insulin from the β-pancreatic cells become active on taking this tea. It also helps to reduce the breakdown of starch into glucose which in turn leads to low blood glucose levels.
Remedies Kidney Stones
Tulsi offers a one-shot remedy for enhancing the healthy functioning of the kidneys by aiding in the excretion of excess uric acid and maintaining the uric acid level in the kidneys, thereby preventing or treating gout. Owing to its anti-lithiasis property, tulsi tea prevents the formation of kidney stones, helps to break or diminish the size of the formed ones and thus prevents various underlying health conditions like kidney stones, polycystic kidney disease, and cystitis.
Enhances Skin And Hair
Thanks to the abundant treasure of antioxidants, tulsi tea actively helps in the formation and production of collagen which in turn helps in promoting hair, and skin. Moreover, sanctified with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, it not only helps in shielding the skin from oxidative radical damage due to the harmful UVA and UVB rays, but also arrests the various signs of ageing and treats skin issues like acne, pimples, blemishes etc.
Additionally, consumption of tulsi tea or using shampoos or hair washes imbued with tulsi extract helps in treating dandruff ridden scalp, strengthens hair follicles, reduces split ends and hair fall and helps to get strong, and lustrous tress.
How To Make Tulsi Tea:
Take a cup of water in a pan and add 3-4 tulsi leaves, bring it to boil. Allow the water to completely absorb the colour and flavour of tulsi leaves. After a few minutes strain the tea in a cup. You can add a teaspoon of honey or lemon juice to enhance flavour and benefits. Refreshing and energising tulsi tea can be made in a jiffy which guarantees you a healthy body and mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Tulsi Tea Good For?
Tulsi tea, or holy basil tea, confers umpteen health incentives:
Drinking Tulsi tea helps strengthen the immune system thanks to its antioxidants and antimicrobial properties.
The natural adaptogenic quality of Tulsi tea supports the body cope with stress and anxiety.
Tulsi tea can alleviate symptoms of respiratory conditions like asthma, bronchitis, and colds due to its anti-inflammatory and expectorant actions.
Drinking Tulsi tea aids the digestion process and can help offer respite from digestive concerns like bloating and indigestion.
Can I Drink Tulsi Tea Every Day?
Yes, you can drink Tulsi tea daily. Regular consumption of Tulsi tea can deliver a broad spectrum of health benefits, including enhanced immunity, reduced stress, and better respiratory health. However, moderation is key, and consuming 1-2 cups per day is generally recommended.
Does Tulsi Tea Have Side Effects?
Tulsi tea is generally safe and well tolerated for most people when consumed in moderate amounts. However, some possible side effects include:
Tulsi can act as a natural blood thinner, so individuals on anticoagulant medications should consult a healthcare provider before consuming it regularly.
Tulsi may lower blood sugar levels, which could concern people with diabetes or those on blood sugar-lowering medications.
A few individuals may experience allergic reactions to Tulsi, such as itching or swelling.
(This article is reviewed by Soumita Basu Ayurveda Pharma Expert)
Author Profile
M Sowmya Binu:
With over 15 years of expertise and a Postgraduate degree in Nutrition, M Sowmya Binu is a seasoned professional in the field of nutrition. Specializing in tailoring personalized diet plans, she underscores the significance of a balanced approach to health, emphasizing the integration of medication with dietary intake for holistic wellness. Passionate about equipping individuals with knowledge to make informed decisions, Sowmya adeptly develops insightful content encompassing a wide array of topics including food, nutrition, supplements, and overall health.
References:
Tulsi - Ocimum sanctum: A herb for all reasons
Marc Maurice Cohen
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4296439/
The Clinical Efficacy and Safety of Tulsi in Humans: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Negar Jamshidi and Marc M. Cohen *
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5376420/
