We all know that Holy Basil or the Tulsi as it is commonly known in Indian households is an integral part of the Hindu household. Popularly known in the western world as Holy Basil, where it is used in salads and Italian cusines and the Latin name is Ocimum tenuiflorum or Ocimum sanctum.

Medicinal Value

Tulsi is widely used in Ayurveda for medicinal purposes. Eugenol which is found in the plant is believed to be the main element responsible for the medicinal properties of the Holy basil. The plant has also been found to have antimicrobial properties, because of  the ursolic acid and carvacrol constituents found in it.

The tulsi/basil plant is used to cure most the common diseases, has anti-aging benefits as well as being useful for diabetics and people with heart disorders, cleans the skin when the juice is applied on the face. 

For Respiratory problems

The leaves of the tulsi are effective expectorants and promote the release of mucus in bronchitis and asthma, thus, facilitating breathing. A decoction made of tulsi leaves, honey and ginger is effective for asthma, bronchitis and influenza.

Immune-enhancing

Along with antimicrobial properties, the phytochemicals present in tulsi offer antioxidant as well as immune-enhancing qualities. It also has adaptogenic properties, which enhances the body's ability to adapt to stress. If you have a garden, grow the plant in a single line closely in front of the door or if you have French Windows you could grow it near them. 

The idea is  to grow them like a hedge and get as much benefit of the plant. It Is believed that air around the house gets purified because of  the phytochemicals present in tulsi/amla. If you live in an apartment you can always grow the Holy basil in a small pot as well and purify the air in your balcony.

If you are living in cold countries where there is no sunlight throughout the year and it is not possible to grow the plant, you could buy a  bottle of basil/ tulsi juice or oil or dried tulsi/basil powder and keep it  in your home. You can banish the common cold and cough and is a wonderful medicine for children too .You could add a spoon of honey to the juice and give it to the children.

It also makes a great mosquito repellant and keeps them away from you when you rub the tulsi/basil oil. So try and make this wonderful plant an integral part of your home!