Tulsi combines the pleasures of herbal tea and Ayurvedic medicine. In India, tulsi is consumed regularly and is very popular, not only because of its many traditions, but also because it is a plant with numerous benefits. To find out more about tulsi, it would be useful to describe the plant, its origins and its various benefits.

Discover tulsi

Under the scientific name Ocimum tenuilflorum, tulsi is a herbaceous plant of Indian origin. The species belongs to the Lamiaceae family and is very popular in India. Indians use
as an infusion. In the country's tradition, this is a drink that can be used to replace tea. This beverage is included in the list of natural remedies in Ayurvedic medicine thanks to its various virtues for well-being and health.

Focus on this sacred basil

There are currently two main varieties: anisodorium and villicaulis. Tulsi plays an important role in Indian tradition. It is even referred to as the holy basil, thanks to the various virtues attributed to it. It is even one of the three main ingredients of Ayurvedic tea. Thanks to its unique fragrance and flavor, it's a very popular ingredient in India's favorite herbal teas. Cultivated throughout the country, tulsi is also found in other continents such as Europe.

Tulsi: a valuable plant

This herbaceous plant of Indian origin has been known for around five thousand years. In ancient Egypt, tulsi was used in the mummification process. Its antibacterial properties are very useful in preservation processes. In India, it's no coincidence that it was nicknamed the Queen of Herbs or the Elixir of Life.

Tulsi is a plant emblematic of Indian religious tradition. It is found in Hindu temples. Indeed, its image symbolizes and reincarnates the goddess Lashmi. It also represents the Gopis' love for Krishna.

In India, it has an annual festival, " tulsi vivah ", celebrated during the month of kartik - corresponding to November in the Gregorian calendar. Numerous rituals are performed. For example, during this celebration, cow dung is sprinkled over the tulsi plants, which are then decorated with a bridal veil, symbolizing Krishna's union with the god Vishnu.

Plant description

Tulsi is an aromatic plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family. It is simply a basil like sage and mint. Its botanical characteristics make it a herbaceous perennial. When fully grown, it can reach a height of 1 meter. It has green leaves with purple stripes and notched edges. During the inflorescence period, it produces small, mauve flowers. Tulsi is harvested from June to October.

In terms of flavor, basil has a rather original taste. It's not too spicy, but it's not sweet either. In fact, it's a blend of pure basil, mint, lemon and aniseed. Its fragrance is quite stimulating, with some chlorophyll ardor that makes it ideal for infusion, to be consumed boiling hot. Tearing the leaves releases a very distinctive aroma.  

Why use tulsi?

Of course, consumption is highly recommended, thanks to its many benefits and the various virtues it has been attributed for millennia. In general, its leaves are used for infusions. It is usually drunk in the morning, accompanied by meditation and daily prayer. As you become accustomed to drinking this beverage, you'll reap the full benefits of tulsi.

Characteristics of tulsi

In addition to infusion, it's important to understand that tulsi leaves are also used to produce essential oil. This solution for massage or simple application has a purifying effect. It is generally used to treat respiratory ailments or breathing-related problems. It is also an effective solution against bacteria and viruses.

Tulsi also has characteristics that favour la digestion. It balances the stomach and helps the digestive system to function properly. Drinking an infusion soothes acid reflux and upset stomachs.

Tulsi is listed in the adaptogenic plants. As a result, they can be used in the search for balance between body and mind. Adaptogens are highly effective in helping the body adapt to emotional reactions and stress.

The benefits of Tulsi

Tulsi is one of the most popular plants in the world of Indian herbal teas, and the most common in traditional Ayurvedic medicine. With its adaptogenic substances, it has the power to restore calm, strength, stamina and peace, not to mention a good temperament.

This plant is said to help prevent certain diseases, improve physical condition and promote longevity.

By boosting the body's immune system, tulsi is a natural alternative to cancer treatment. This plant is capable of ridding the body of toxic substances.

Sources :

https://www.plantes-et-sante.fr/articles/plantes-medicinales/1865-le-tulsi-un-sacre-bouclier
https://kokopelli-semences.fr/fr/p/A0119-sacre-tulsi
https://lavalheureuse.com/boutique-web/fr/tisane-bio-basilic-sacrE-p179/