Tulsi or holy basil, is a well - known herb in the mint family. It is native to India and is grown throughout Southeast Asia.
Tulsi has ben proven to be very effective in protecting our body from various infections and ailments of the liver, skin, kidneys, etc. It is a powerful herb that help control blood pressure and cholesterol levels. It is one of the best heart healthy foods because it contains healthy oxidants. It is also good for diabetics as it has hypoglycemic properties that are known to help lower blood sugar levels. I recommend including tulsi in your diabetics meal plan. Due to its many health benefits, tulsi is rightly called the “ Queen of Herbs ”.
Tulsi holds a special place in Ayurveda. In India mainly three varieties of tulsi are grown. Light green leaves called Ram Tulsi. Purple green leaves named Krishna Tulsi , common Wild Vana Tulsi.
Nutritional Value:
Tulsi leaves are rich in Vitamins A, C, K, as well as minerals such as calcium, phosphorous, magnesium and potassium. It also contains good quality protein and fiber.
Please Note: that tulsi is consumed much less when used as an herb.
Fresh tulsi leaves and dried leaves may contain slightly more of the nutrients.
Research backed Tulsi benefits include :
# Natural Income Booster. # Relieves fever, pain, colds, coughs and other respiratory ailments. # Reduce stress, blood pressure. # Anticancer properties. # Heart good. # Good for diabetics patients. # Useful in kidney stones. # Helps with Gastrointestinal disorder. # Good for skin and hair. # Insect bites and blood cleansing. # Oral and Dental health. # Reduces stress and fatigue.
How to eat Tulsi ?
Eat Tulsi leaves fresh from the plant raw, add them to tea .
Tulsi tea: To make tulsi tea, bring 1 cup of water to a boil and pour in 1 teaspoon fresh tulsi leaves, ½ teaspoon dries tulsi leaves or ⅓ teaspoon tulsi powder. Fill a pot or mug with water and let it sit for 15 - 20 minutes. Then strain the leaves and add honey to taste. Tulsi powder and supplements are also commercially available.
Side effects of consuming Tulsi you need to know:
Tulsi can affect fertility in women trying to conceive. Some people experience nausea and diarrhea when tulsi tea is first added to the diet, so it is best to start with a small amount and increase consumption over time, as tulsi can lower blood sugar levels, should be used with caution in diabetics patients taking lowering blood sugar .
