Information on Holy Basil

The herb holy basil, also called tulsi, has been used for medicinal and spiritual purposes for many centuries in the Eastern world. The holy basil plant originated in India and is India's most cherished plant. The benefits of using holy basil has led to its modern day use in the Western world for decoration and natural health use. Holy basil can either be showcased as a houseplant or in a garden, and the whole plant, including its leaves and seeds, can be used for a variety of purposes.

Hindu Religion

• The presence of a holy basil plant displayed outside of a Hindu home is considered to symbolize the household's devotion to the Hindu religion. Practicing Hindus worship holy basil at the beginning and end of every day. Hindu households are considered to be complete if a holy basil plant is found in the courtyard outside of the home. Many Hindus position a holy basil plant in the center of four cornered Hindu deities or plant entire holy basil gardens. The famous Tulsi Manas Mandir at Varanasi city in India is a place where holy basil is openly worshipped alongside Hindu goddesses and gods.

Ayurvedic Treatment

• Ayurvedic medicine is India's conventional form of medicine that focuses on the use of medicinal plants, although in other parts of the world it is known as alternative medicine. Ayurvedic practitioners extract and administer active holy basil compounds, such as luteolin, apigenin and ursolic acid, to manage such ailments as respiratory problems and to build up the body's metabolism and immune system. Holy basil compounds have been used in Ayurvedic medicine for such ailments as asthma, allergies, viral illnesses, high blood pressure and high blood sugar as well as to alleviate symptoms of various other infections.

Oral/Dental Care

• Holy basil disinfects the oral cavity and is a long lasting mouth and breath freshener. According to Organic Facts, holy basil eradicates over 99 percent of the bacteria and germs in the mouth for extended periods of time. Holy basil also helps to repress oral cancer growth and can cure mouth ulcers. The astringent properties of holy basil cause the gums to tighten around the teeth, which helps to keep the teeth from falling out.

Skin Care

• Holy basil is hailed for its abilities to naturally correct external and internal skin disorders without adverse side effects. You can wash your face with holy basil, puree the leaves and add them to your bath water, or apply a paste of holy basil leaves directly onto an infected skin area. Holy basil will also repel mosquitoes and other bugs away from your skin.

Stress

• According to Dr. Andrew Weil, holy basil's most compelling benefit is its promising stress relieving capabilities. Holy basil contains vitamin C and other antioxidants that reverse free radical damage in the body. Therefore, stress is minimized as internal inflammation is reduced, blood pressure is lowered and nerves are soothed. Holy basil stress-combating supplements are sold in the United States in capsule and tea forms.