Tulasi

🌿 (Ocimum sanctum / Ocimum tenuiflorum)

Also known as Holy Basil or “The Incomparable One”

📖 Overview

Tulasi, or Holy Basil, is one of Ayurveda’s most sacred and revered herbs. Considered a manifestation of divine energy, it is traditionally used to support respiratory health, stress resilience, immunity, and spiritual clarity. It is classified as an adaptogen and known for promoting balance in the body, mind, and spirit.

📜 Traditional Use in Ayurveda

Tulasi is considered Shwasahara (respiratory support), Jvarahara (fever-reducing), and Medhya (intellect-enhancing). It balances Kapha and Vata, clears Ama (toxins), and is known for uplifting Sattva (clarity and lightness of mind).

Charaka Samhita (Sutra Sthana 27.104):
“Tulasi kaphavataghni jvaraghni shwasaghni rasayana”
“Tulasi alleviates Kapha and Vata, reduces fever and respiratory issues, and is a rejuvenative.”

Bhavaprakasha Nighantu (Haritakyadi Varga, Verse 47):
“Tulasi tikta katu ushna virya kaphavataghni medhya”
“Tulasi is bitter, pungent, heating, reduces Kapha and Vata, and promotes mental clarity.”

🍵 Suggested Use

Tulasi is used in a variety of traditional and modern forms:

Tea/Infusion: Most popular and spiritually symbolic; supports digestion, lungs, and calm
Powder (Churna): 1–3 grams with warm water or honey
Capsules/Tablets: Standardized for eugenol and essential oil content
Essential Oil: Used for aromatic clarity or topical support in diluted form

🔬 Scientific Research & References

Modern studies confirm Tulasi’s adaptogenic, antimicrobial, and respiratory-supporting effects:

Adaptogen & Stress Relief: Shown to lower cortisol and support adrenal function [1]
Antiviral & Antibacterial: Demonstrates broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity [2]
Respiratory Benefits: Acts as a bronchodilator and mucolytic in respiratory conditions [3]

References:

Saxena, R. C., et al. (2012). Efficacy of Ocimum sanctum in stress-induced conditions. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med, 2012, 894509.
Mondal, S., et al. (2011). Tulsi – Ocimum sanctum: A herb for all reasons. J Ayurveda Integr Med, 2(1), 49–55.
Bhargava, K. P., & Singh, N. (1981). Antistress activity of Ocimum sanctum Linn. Indian J Med Res, 73, 443–451.

⚠️ Cautions & Contraindications

Heating in nature—may be aggravating to Pitta types if taken in excess
Not recommended in high doses during pregnancy
Use with caution in individuals with blood-thinning medications due to mild anticoagulant effects

🛍️ Shop by Interest

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"These products feature Tulasi, traditionally used to support general wellness. This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease."

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