Tulsi or Holy Basil has been in existence for thousands of years and is revered for its extensive medicinal properties. Referred to as Vishnupriya for its association with Lord Vishnu, it also finds mention in ancient scriptures, proving its religious significance as well as medicinal use for treating various disorders since centuries. Tulsi belongs to the Lamiaceae family and is a popular ingredient in Ayurvedic medicine formulation.
It is used to treat respiratory disorders , viral infections, and more. Every part of the Tulsi plant, also known as Ocimum sanctum Linn in Latin, is used in traditional medicine including its leaves, stem, flower, root, seeds, etc. Tulsi leaves can be chewed for instant relief from cough and cold, or the leaves or seeds can be added to the boiling water and strained for a flavourful tea.
Tulsi can also be soaked in warm water and the infused water can be consumed every day on an empty stomach. Holy basil leaves can also be used for garnishing salads, cheese, meat, pesto and egg dishes. Benefits of Tulsi water Cold, cough and sore throat Tulsi is particularly useful in the rainy season as its leaves can be boiled with tea and water as a remedy to cure fever from illnesses like dengue, malaria and seasonal flu.
Tulsi leaves can also be added to honey as an Ayurvedic cough treatment as it can help release mucus in respiratory disorders. Tulsi can also provide relief from sore throat. Tulsi leaves can be boiled with water and consumed or Tulsi wate.