Ocimum tenuiflorum, a tropical species of tulsi or holy basil, is the cousin of the common sweet basil named Krishna holy basil after the blue-skinned Hindu god. Historically, Krishna tulsi has been a significant herb in Ayurvedic medicine and is revered as a sacred plant in India, known as "The Queen of the Herbs" for its revitalizing and spiritual properties.. It has a peppery, crisp taste and is typically drunk as a tea utilizing the healing benefits of the leaves.

It has been used for thousands of years to aid in natural detoxification, stress and to restore balance and harmony, as it is also an adaptogen. These restorative types of herbs help the body adapt to physical, environmental and emotional stressors as well as supports normal functions.

Holy basil is traditionally taken as an herbal tea or mixed with ghee.

Here are some other ways it has been known and used to help support the body:

Fever and cold: Helps regulate body temperature, commonly used in treating influenza, i.e. common cold, by reducing infection and strengthening the immune system

Nervine debility: Tulsi is a powerful nervine tonic that helps to strengthen the nervous system. It helps in controlling all the activities within the body that is regulated by our nervous system. The ailment like Parkinson and paralysis can be treated with the appropriate usage of this herb. Moreover, it also improves the working of brain and enhances the mental concentration.

Respiratory: One of the most common herbs used for cough-related ailments, managing asthmatic conditions, helpful in treating respiratory disorders as well as bronchitis.

Immunity enhancer: Tulsi has a property that is very beneficial in growing the immunity beyond the body. It improves immunity by promoting the production of antibodies, and fight against any foreign invasion into the body. Besides this, it also aids in increasing the formation of T helper cells that fight viruses and antigens.

Sore throat: drink the tea after it is boiled to help soothe a sore throat

Kidney: leaves helps in breaking up of the stone within the kidney

Eyes: improves the vision, tones up eyes, contains optimum level of vitamin A that is beneficial in healthy eyes

Head: its analgesic properties may help in relieving symptoms of migraine and head ache

Inflammation: helps to decreases the inflammation.

Heart: tones up the heart muscle, rectifies blood circulation, decreases cholesterol

For its overall awesomeness, I have added it to my Shop and as part of my Clear Intentions Herbal Tea blend.

Precautions
Not for use in pregnancy except under the supervision of a qualified healthcare practitioner. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.

Have you tried Holy Basil before? If so, what did you use it for? Personally, I love its benefits of being an adaptogen and working to balance my body and bring it into harmony as stress is so damaging to our health.

Until next time,

~ Crystal