Tulsi is a venerated plant and Hindus worship it in the morning and evening. It has provided the backbone of many treatments among Ayurvedic physicians from thousands of years ago, as it was used to treat numerous disorders. The family genus of mint leaves is mostly used as consumed vegetable and medicine as well. From the leaves to the seed, holy basil is considered a … Tulsi has an active component, called eugenol, which has numerous health benefits. Name * Email * Recaptcha . The plant is widely used in Ayurvedic and folk medicine, often as an herbal tea for a variety of ailments, and is considered sacred in Hinduism. Holy basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum), commonly known in the Hindi language as tulsi, is quite possibly the most revered medicinal herb on the planet. The holy basil plant is revered in Hinduism as a manifestation of the goddess Lakshmi (Tulsi), the principal consort of the god Vishnu. It grows as a perennial in tropical and subtropical environments and can be grown as an annual from seed or cuttings in other regions. Be the first to know on our upcoming events and specials. Holy basil ( Ocimum tenuiflorum or Ocimum sanctum ) is one of India’s most important healing plants through history, and over the years has been called the “incomparable one,” “elixir of anti-aging,” and “Queen of Herbs.” As such, Tulsi has been used in ayurvedic medicine since ancient times. Benefits of Holy Basil. Many families have the tulsi planted in a specially built structure, which has images of deities installed on all four sides, and an alcove for a small earthen oil lamp. Basil also carried diverse cultural and symbolic meaning through history. The stems are hairy and bear simple toothed or entire leaves oppositely along the stem. Tulsi is the Sanskrit name for holy basil. This festival continues for five days and concludes on the full moon day, which falls in mid-October. Some households can even have up to a dozen tulsi plants on the verandah or in the garden forming a "tulsi-van" or "tulsivrindavan" - a miniature basil forest. According to one legend, Tulsi was the incarnation of a princess who fell in love with Lord Krishna, and so had a curse laid on her by his consort Radha. Tulsi is also mentioned in the stories of Meera and of Radha immortalized in Jayadev's Gita Govinda. The name 'tulsi' connotes "the incomparable one". Holy Basil or Tulsi Leaves health benefits includes maintaining oral health, regulating sugar level, fighting cancerous cells, lowering stress and anxiety, treating acne, treating cough and cold, reducing bad cholesterol levels, fighting inflammation, supporting respiratory health, dissolving kidney stones, preventing hair fall, strengthening immune system, and prevent early aging. Devotees commonly worship in the morning and evening with mantras and offerings of flowers, incense, or water from the Ganges, and Tuesdays and Fridays are considered especially sacred. Holy basil is commonly found in the … Move over coffee, holy basil is here to stay. Nutrients of Holy Basil Leaf. Wild Holy basil, O. tenuiflorum, grows wild in parts of Asia and Africa, and different varieties are cultivated around the world. His parents were known for their piety. Our editors will review what you’ve submitted and determine whether to revise the article. Don't confuse holy basil with sweet basil (also called Thai basil) commonly used in cooking; though related, they're two different plants. Holy basil has a disinfectant and natural sedative property which is beneficial for relieving headache and migraine pain. Even the ritual act of watering and caring for the plant, usually undertaken by the women of the house, is considered worshipful and meritorious. Holy Basil Dosage: A dosage of this herb depends on the user’s health conditions, age and other medical factors. Whereas in ancient Greece, basil symbolized hatred. Holy basil is a plant that has violet flowers and blossoms; the stems are green, but sometimes have a purple tinge. Holy basil plant that represents Tulsi. The story of Lord Krishna has it that when Krishna was weighed in gold, not even all the ornaments of Satyabhama could outweigh him. Learn Religions uses cookies to provide you with a great user experience. It is one of the most sacred plants in India and has been used by the ancient Greeks and Romans to benefit the body, mind, and spirit. Although tulsi is regarded as feminine, in no folklore is she described as the consort the Lord. Holy basil image via Shutterstock. History/Folklore: In Hindu traditions, holy basil is a symbol of chastity and purity. The fruits are nutlets and produce numerous seeds. The name 'tulsi' connotes "the incomparable one". Use holy basil alongside, not instead of, medical treatment. This ritual, called the 'Tulsi Vivaha' inaugurates the annual marriage season in India. By using Learn Religions, you accept our, 15 Benefits of the Holy Basil (Tulsi) Herb, The 5 Principles and 10 Disciplines of Hinduism, Arranged Marriage, Polygamy, and Hinduism, Symbolism in the Rituals of Hindu Worship, M.A., English Literature, University of North Bengal. Here are some other essential oils for headaches. This is an extremely potent herb, and it has a history of medicinal use in Southeast Asia dating back thousands of years. Basil was born into the wealthy family of Basil the Elder, and Emmelia of Caesarea, in Cappadocia, around 330. The plant's extracts can be used to prevent and cure many illnesses and common ailments like common cold, headaches, stomach disorders, inflammation, heart disease, various forms of poisoning and malaria. You can then use this information to decide when’s best for yourself. To avail the advantage, you can drink basil tea or can use basil oil. Vaishnavites or believers of Lord Vishnu worship the tulsi leaf because it's the one that pleases Lord Vishnu the most. Of the many varieties, the Krishna or Shyama tulsi is commonly used for worship. Marked by its strong aroma and astringent taste, tulsi is a kind of "the elixir of life" as it promotes longevity. Tulsi is ceremonially married to Lord Vishnu annually on the 11th bright day of the month of Karttika in the lunar calendar. The plant is grown in many Hindu homes, often in the courtyard in a dedicated four-sided structure, and the presence of a holy basil plant is believed to increase piety, foster meditation, purify, and protect. By signing up for this email, you are agreeing to news, offers, and information from Encyclopaedia Britannica. If you were eating rajma in Delhi, what would you be eating? They also wear beaded necklaces made of tulsi stems. The presence of tulsi plant symbolizes the religious bent of a Hindu family. The Holy Basil herb is one of the oldest and most used medicinal herbs. Holy basil, commonly referred to as tulsi, is classified as a perennial plant originally grown in India. SIGN UP NOW! Affordable and search from millions of royalty free images, photos and vectors. The holy basil plant is revered in Hinduism as a manifestation of the goddess Lakshmi (Tulsi), the principal consort of the god Vishnu. In the Hindu mythology, tulsi is very dear to Lord Vishnu. Water infused with the leaves is often given to the dying to help elevate their souls, and funeral pyres are commonly fitted with holy basil twigs with the hopes that the deceased may obtain moksha and be liberated from the cycle of rebirth. But a single tulsi leaf placed by Rukmani on the pan tilted the scale. Holy basil, (Ocimum tenuiflorum), also called tulsi or tulasi, flowering plant of the mint family (Lamiaceae) grown for its aromatic leaves. Tulsi used to be a universal remedy in cases of malarial fever. Holy basil, or tulsi's scientific name is Ocimum sanctum. Watch Queue Queue Download Holy basil stock photos. The manufacture of these tulsi necklaces is a cottage industry in pilgrimages and temple towns. These are but a few examples of the lasting cultural importance of the herb. The tulsi plant has a rich history dating back 3,000 years ago to ancient India, as it’s long been considered a medicinal herb and sacred plant in Ayurvedic medicine. Although holy basil's benefits have been clinically studied, it is not an alternative to prescription medicine. The fragrant leaves are green or purple, depending on the variety. Holy basil is native to the Indian subcontinent and grows throughout Southeast Asia. Holy Basil Can Help Prevent Cancer. It has been known throughout history as a healing herb. The 'tulsi' plant or Indian basil is an important symbol in the Hindu religious tradition. The plant is especially sacred to Vaishnavites (devotees of Vishnu), and the Lord Krishna, an avatar of Vishnu, is said to wear a garland of holy basil leaves and flowers around his neck. The beginning of the Hindu wedding season is marked by a festival known as Tulsi Vivah, in which homes and temples ceremonially wed holy basil to Vishnu. The History of Holy Basil Benefits Known in the scientific community as Ocimum sanctum, the history of holy basil dates as far back as the ancient Hindu in 1,500 BC. Holy basil essential oil when dripped into a tablespoon of carrier oil makes for a marvelous oil mixture that is highly beneficial for hair growth, skin health, digestion, respiratory problems, ear infection, mouth ulcer, and stress. Enjoy! While working for long hours, holy basil tea has been my friend and for good reason. The plant is cultivated for religious purposes, and for its essential oil. XMAS PARTY 2017. The plant is accorded the sixth place among the eight objects of worship in the ritual of the consecration of the Kalasha, the container of holy water. It has also been revered for its spiritual potency, and has been dubbed among ancient Ayurvedic texts as “elixir of life.” It is also used as a culinary herb with a pungent flavour that intensifies with cooking. Furthermore, fusing these flavours with modern twists and other cuisines that successfully blend the cultures. To identify holy basil, look for deeply veined green leaves and pale purple flowers. Below are various health benefits of tulsi tea; 1. Although it is native to India, holy basil is known to grow in other countries around the world today, including Australia, some countries located in the Middle East, and even West Africa. If you are a human seeing this field, please leave it empty. Many Hindus have tulsi plants growing in front of or near their home, often in special pots or a special masonry structure known as Tulsi Vrindavan as this is related to their culture. Holy basil, or tulsi’s scientific name is Ocimum sanctum. It is an erect, tall sub shrub with hairy stems, and simple green on purple leaves. Tulsi is a venerated plant and Hindus worship it in the morning and evening. Yet a garland solely made of tulsi leaves is the first offering to the Lord as part of the daily ritual. Omissions? Geography/History Holy basil is native to India, where it has been a part of the culture since ancient times. Traditionally, Tulsi is planted in the center of the central courtyard of Hindu houses. It promotes a healthy respiratory system and can be used to treat bronchitis, asthma and allergies. HOLY BASIL FRIED ICE CREAM. Consuming holy basil can help your body boost its own antioxidant activity, which slows DNA damage and aging, and decreases cancer risk, according to a 2007 study in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. I hope you like my video! Dark or Shyama tulsi and light or Rama tulsi are the two main varieties of basil, the former possessing greater medicinal value. Stay Updated! It is considered an agricultural weed and an invasive species in some areas outside its native range. Melissa Petruzzello is Assistant Editor of Plant and Environmental Science and covers a range of content from plants, algae, and fungi, to renewable energy and environmental engineering. Be on the lookout for your Britannica newsletter to get trusted stories delivered right to your inbox. This is because more people realise how important this herb is for overall well-being. What does holy basil do for the body? According to Jeevan Kulkarni, author of 'Historical Truths & Untruths Exposed,' when Hindu women worship tulsi, they in effect pray for "less and less carbonic acid and more and more oxygen - a perfect object lesson in sanitation, art, and religion". This is an extremely potent herb, and it has a history of medicinal use in Southeast Asia dating back thousands of years. https://www.britannica.com/plant/holy-basil, Verywell Health - The Health Benefits of Holy Basil, Healthline - The Health Benefits of Holy Basil. That’s why in this article, we break down the reasons for taking Holy Basil both in the morning and at night. Holy basil is cultivated at many temples, and the woody stems of plants that have died are used to make beads for sacred japa mala (rosaries). Please select which sections you would like to print: Corrections? BOOK YOUR NEXT EVENT WITH US. Hindu woman worshipping a tulsi, or holy basil (, Hindu woman carrying a tulsi plant, or holy basil (. Test your knowledge in this study of Indian food and cuisine. It is native to the Tropical Asia, but now found in most tropical parts of the world. What food was called "food of the gods" in ancient India? You see, Holy Basil is an excellent all-rounder with such a diverse range of benefits. [ 2] P Part of the mint family, this aromatic shrub was originally native to India. Holy basil, also known as tulsi, has a rich history as an important spiritual herb in Ayurvedic medicine that dates back 3,000 years ago. Take holy basil as a supplement to other medications, and consult a doctor or dietitian before adding it to your lifestyle. He has written several books about Hinduism for children and young adults. One of the best benefits I found when using holy basil was the … Fields marked with an * are required. NEW YEARS PARTY 2018. Tulsi tea has antioxidant, digestive, anti-inflammatory, and stress-relieving properties which make it a very popular herbal tea. 6 Holy Basil Benefits (and How to Make them Work for You) 1. Holy basil (Ocimum sanctum, sometimes called Ocimum tenuiflorum) is a green, leafy plant with purple flowers. The plant is especially sacred to Vaishnavites (devotees of Vishnu), and the Lord Krishna , an avatar of Vishnu, is said to wear a garland of holy basil … The 'tulsi' plant or Indian basil is an important symbol in the Hindu religious tradition. Tulsi: Sacred Plant of the Gods. The extract of holy basil has much anti-oxide and anti-bacterial, vitamin K, vitamin K, magnesium, mangan, protein, and mineral, Vitamin K enables the function of freezing blood after scarce hurt. The tulsi plant is even known to purify or de-pollute the atmosphere and also works as a repellent to mosquitoes, flies and other harmful insects. It is anti-congestive and is useful in decreasing the symptoms of sinus. It’s also good for maintaining a healthy digestive system, relieving cramps and gas. The holy basil plant is a small annual or short-lived perennial shrub, up to 1 metre (3.3 feet) in height. Let us know if you have suggestions to improve this article (requires login). At the recommendation of the Hindu managers, the whole boundary of the gardens was planted with holy basil, on which the plague of mosquitoes was at once abated, and fever altogether disappeared from among the resident gardeners.". It is reminiscent of clove, Italian basil (Ocimum basilicum), and mint and has a peppery spiciness. Essential oil extracted from karpoora tulsi is mostly used for medicinal purposes though of late it is used in the manufacture of herbal toiletry. Holy basil is also known as tulsi, tulasi, and Queen of the Herbs. Naturally caffeine-free, holy basil has compounds that are perfect for boosting brain power. Prof Shrinivas Tilak, who teaches Religion at Concordia University, Montreal has made this historical citation: In a letter written to 'The Times,' London, dated May 2, 1903 Dr George Birdwood, Professor of Anatomy, Grant Medical College, Mumbai said, "When the Victoria Gardens were established in Bombay, the men employed on those works were pestered by mosquitoes. Holy basil offers Thai with a twist, utilising the key staple flavours known and loved with Thai cuisine. Subhamoy Das is the co-author of "Applied Hinduism: Ancient Wisdom for Today's World." Historically, it was used as medicine and still today holy basil leaves are regarded as natural a daptogens (anti-stress agents) that promote health throughout the entire body. Discover holy basil, a herb that has a range of medicinal uses: antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, adaptogenic, immunomodulating, and more properties. Today, there is a growing interest in tulsi in Western countries as well. Updates? It is considered a sacred plants by the Hindus and often planted around their shrines. In Portugal, basil plants make up part of a gift to a sweetheart or lover on certain religious holidays. UPCOMING EVENTS. His maternal grandfather was a Christian martyr, executed in the years prior to Constantine I 's conversion. This is because more people realise how important this herb is for overall well-being. The small purple or white tubular flowers have green or purple sepals and are borne in terminal spikes. It has a history within Indian medicine as a treatment for many conditions, from eye diseases to ringworms. Tulsi grows wild in the tropics and warm regions. Highly regarded in Ayurvedic medicine, holy basil is mentioned in the Rig Veda, an ancient collection of Indian hymns, and its sacredness has been celebrated in the Purana. Organic India ’s foundational herb, Tulsi, also called Holy Basil, was chosen for its broad-spectrum health-supporting properties, but also because it works synergistically with other Ayurvedic adaptogenic herbs such as Turmeric and Ashwagandha. Places that tend to inspire concentration and places ideal for worship, according to the 'Gandharv Tantra,' include "grounds overgrown with tulsi plants". Tulsi grows wild in the tropics and warm regions. Apart from its religious significance it is of great medicinal significance and is a prime herb in Ayurvedic treatment. It is native to the Indian subcontinent and widespread as a cultivated plant throughout the Southeast Asian tropics. Holy basil, also known as tulsi, is an herb originally grown in the tropical climates of India and nearby countries. Ocimum tenuiflorum (synonym Ocimum sanctum), commonly known as holy basil or tulsi, is an aromatic perennial plant in the family Lamiaceae. The Tulsi Manas Mandir at Varanasi is one such famous temple, where tulsi is worshiped along with other Hindu gods and goddesses. Quite a few myths and legends found in the Puranas or ancient scriptures point to the origin of the importance of tulsi in religious rituals. It Boosts Cognitive Function. Holy Basil essential oil (Tulsi) is gotten from the Holy Basil leaves, the plant is also known as “Tulsi”. This video is unavailable. Dark or Shyama tulsi and light or Rama tulsi are the two main varieties of basil, the former possessing greater medicinal value. So depending on what benefit you want to see, you may want to take Holy Basil at different times of the day. Holy Basil proudly provides sustainably sourced seafood, vegetarian and vegan dishes, this provides something unique to the menu. Today, there is a growing interest in tulsi in Western countries as well. 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