Tuli, or Sacred Basil, has to be one of my absolute favorite herbs to grow. The benefits are numerous and the fragrance is strong. This herb was a new one for me last year and I have never loved an herb as much as I love Tulsi.
Tulsi, also known as Holy Basil, is a perennial herb that is considered sacred in Hinduism. It is native to the Indian subcontinent and has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. The plant can grow up to two feet tall and has green, fragrant leaves and small, purple or white flowers. In Hinduism, Tulsi is revered as a goddess and is often planted in and around temples and homes. It is believed to have spiritual properties and is considered to be a purifying and protective plant.
Tulsi is also used in traditional medicine for its many health benefits. It is believed to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and apoptogenic properties. It is commonly used to boost the immune system, reduce stress and anxiety, and promote respiratory and digestive health. The leaves and seeds of the plant can be consumed fresh or dried, or made into a tea or supplement. In cultivation, two main varieties of Tulsi are grown: Rama Tulsi and Krishna Tulsi, which are distinguishable by their leaf color. The leaves of Rama Tulsi are green, while the leaves of Krishna Tulsi are purple.
Tulsi Medicinal Uses
Some of the medicinal uses of Tulsi include:
- Boosting the Immune System: Tulsi is believed to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to boost the immune system and protect against various infections and illnesses.
- Reducing Stress and Anxiety: Tulsi is considered to be an adaptogen, which means that it helps the body to adapt to stressors and reduce feelings of anxiety.
- Promoting Respiratory Health: Tulsi is commonly used to alleviate symptoms of respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and the common cold. It is believed to help clear the lungs and improve breathing.
- Improving Digestive Health: Tulsi is believed to help reduce symptoms of indigestion, bloating, and gas. It may also help to improve the absorption of nutrients from food.
- Lowering Blood Sugar: Studies have suggested that Tulsi may help to lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity, which may be beneficial for people with diabetes.
- Anti-cancer properties: Tulsi has also been found to have potential anti-cancer properties by inhibiting the growth and spread of cancer cells.
It’s important to note that while Tulsi is considered safe when consumed in moderate amounts, high doses or prolonged use may cause adverse effects, so please consult your naturopathic doctor before using it for medicinal purposes.
How to Take Tulsi
Tulsi can be consumed in various forms for its medicinal properties. My favorite way to take this beautiful herb is to consume it by making a tea. To make Tulsi tea, simply steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried Tulsi leaves in a cup of boiling water for 5-10 minutes. You can also add honey or lemon for taste. In the summer you can add honey and then poor over ice. If you want an iced latte feel, you can add in your favorite plant milk to change it up! Another convenient way to take Tulsi is by consuming it in capsule form although, I don’t see this as often and I would only advise this way if you are really trying to treat a specific ailment with Tulsi. It’s important to note that the appropriate dosage and duration of use may vary depending on the individual and the condition being treated and once again, be sure to consult your naturopath!
A tincture or herbal extract of Tulsi is another way you can take this herb medicinally. You can take Tulsi tincture by adding it to a glass of water or directly under the tongue. If you need a quick way to have tea on the go, a tincture or extract is an excellent way to carry this herb as you can do 1-2 droppers full of the mixture to hot water and have instant Tulsi tea. A relaxing way you can use Tulsi oil, which is made by infusing Tulsi leaves in a carrier oil like coconut oil or sesame oil. You can use it as a massage oil or add a few drops to your bathwater. You can also consume Tulsi fresh or dried leaves, which can be added to salads, soups, and other dishes for flavor and health benefits.
Growing Tulsi
Anyone can easily grow Tulsi in zones 10-11 as a perennial or lowers zones as an annual. I am in zone 8 and can easily grow it here in the Pacific Northwest. Tulsi prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It should be planted in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Watering Tulsi regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged is really important to it flourishing. It also benefits from regular fertilization, especially during the growing season. Use a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer or a fertilizer specifically formulated for herbs. I find that whenever I go to fertilize my tomatoes, which I frequently grow with Tulsi, that is sufficient enough to keep my Tulsi happy. Harvesting a Tulsi plant regularly will encourage bushier growth and promote the production of new leaves. If you want to be able to have Tulsi all summer long and a healthy amount during the off season. The more you harvest and dry, the larger your stock!
Tulsi is relatively pest and disease-free, but watch out for common herb pests like aphids and whiteflies. Tulsi leaves can be harvested at any time, but the best time to harvest for maximum flavor and medicinal properties is just before the plant flowers. Even then, the flowers are beautiful, fragrant, and delicious. My favorite addition to the garden! Like the herbs previously mentioned here (echinacea) and here (peppermint) Tulsi does well when planted with other herbs like mint, rosemary, and thyme.
Recipe
Apoptogenic Tulsi Tea by The Herbal Academy
1 cup water
1-2 Tbsp dried Tulsi (or handful of fresh leaves and flowers)
Directions:
Bring water to a boil. Remove from heat and pour over the Tulsi in a heat-safe container. Allow the tea to steep, covered for about 15-20 minutes. Strain the plant matter from the tea and enjoy daily.