By THE TRUTHS 
Introduction
Holy basil is known in India with several names, such as, Vishun ballabha, Sukbballari, Sri Krishna Ballabba, Vrinda, Vasihnani, etc. Explaining the importance of holy basil is like trying to describe the importance of Sun. It is a medicinal herb which has capability to control any type of disorder. It is taken as a goddess. It is easily available, everywhere and is fragrant and beautiful. It is the cheapest of all herbs available. In addition to medicinal values, it is known for its religious values also and hence is grown in every household in India. Its several varieties are found. Out of these the white (Rama – Ocimum sanctum) and black (Shyama Ocimum sanctum/O.basilicum) tulsi are the most important ones. The leaves and branches of black basil are violet or black in colour. In addition, O. gratisziwnw O canaw etc, are also very important plants used as Tulsi
Chemical Composition
From leaves, a yellowish green oil is extracted which when dries turns into crystalline form. It is also known as Tahi kapoor
Properties
It is Aapbasata shasak, kills insects, eradicates body odour, promotes digestive functions and improves digestion. It is gets easily absorbed in the system, anthelmintic, cures cough, excites heart and purifies blood. It causes sweating and is anti-pyretic and cures swelling and oedema.
- Give 10-20 gm juice of holy basil, every morning, to the patient. It is beneficial in curing dermatoses. 2. Grind its leaves in lemon juice and apply the paste
on the affected area. It helps cure eczema, gout, dermatoses etc. 3. Grind its juice with brick powder and cow’s give and oedema.
Medicina used
- apply the paste on the affected area.
For promoting physical strength: Mix 20 gm powder if its seeds with 40 gm sugar powder. Give 1 gm of this misture in winter season for a few days. It protects from sdr and kaphe disorders. It eradicates weakness and enhances and strengthens the immune system of the body. It also strengthens the tendons and ligaments.
Holy Basil is considered an adaptogen, meaning it helps the body adapt to stress and restore balance. It is widely used for:
- Stress and Anxiety Relief: Tulsi is believed to have calming effects, reducing anxiety and promoting mental clarity.
- Immune Support: It has strong antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties that boost the immune system.
- Anti-inflammatory Effects: Contains compounds like eugenol that reduce inflammation and pain.
- Respiratory Health: Tulsi is often used to relieve respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and colds.
- Digestive Health: It aids in digestion.
Nutritional Components:
- Essential oils: Contain eugenol, camphor, and other compounds with therapeutic effects.
- Vitamins and minerals: Rich in Vitamin A, C, calcium, zinc, and iron.
- Antioxidants: Contains flavonoids, polyphenols, and tannins.
Health Benefits:
- Adaptogenic properties: Helps the body adapt to stress, regulating cortisol levels and supporting overall resilience.
- Immune system support: Boosts the immune response due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Respiratory benefits: Effective in managing respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and colds.
- Anti-inflammatory effects: Helps reduce inflammation, benefiting conditions like arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.
- Blood sugar regulation: Assists in balancing blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for people with diabetes.
- Heart health: Reduces cholesterol levels and supports cardiovascular function.
- Cognitive benefits: May enhance memory and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
- Antimicrobial: Fights bacteria, viruses, and fungi due to its essential oils.
How it’s Used:
- Herbal tea: Commonly brewed to manage stress and support overall health.
- Essential oil: Used in aromatherapy and topically for its soothing properties.
- Supplements: Available in capsule or tincture form.
- Religious use: In Hindu rituals, Tulsi is often grown in homes and temples, and its leaves are used in sacred offerings.