| Know About The Tulsi Plant... |
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| Health - Health Care | |
| Written by Mediabharti Syndication Service | |
| Wednesday, 20 May 2009 | |
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Ocimum tenuiflorum also known as ocimum sanctum, tulsi, is an erect, much branched sub-shrub 30-60cm tall, with simple opposite green or purple leaves that are strongly scented, and hairy stems. Leaves have petioles, and are ovate, up to 5cm long, usually somewhat toothed. Flowers are purplish in elongate racemes in close whorls. Tulsi is native throughout the old world tropics and widespread as a cultivated plant and an escaped weed. It is cultivated for religious and medicinal purposes, and for its essential oil. It is known across South Asia as a medicinal plant, commonly used in Ayurveda, and has an important role within the Vaishnavite tradition of Hinduism, in which devotees perform worship involving Tulsi plants or leaves. It's an eco purifier, a bit more than other plants. Recent studies suggest that Tulsi may be a COX-2 inhibitor, like many modern painkillers, due to its high concentration of eugenol (1-hydroxy-2-methoxy-4-allylbenzene); One study showed Tulsi to be an effective treatment for diabetes by reducing blood glucose levels. The same study showed significant reduction in total cholesterol levels with Tulsi. Another study showed that Tulsi's beneficial effect on blood glucose levels is due to its antioxidant properties. Tulsi also shows some promise for protection from radiation poisoning and cataracts. Adding used tea leaves to the soil and regular pruning will ensure better growth of the plant. The leaves and juice of this herb can be used in easy-to-make home remedies to cure common ailments such as colds, migraines, fever, stomach disorders, and even some cases of poisoning.
Tulsi has been known to increase stamina and ensure general well being. It reduces bronchial mucus and brings relief to those suffering from colds. This explains why tulsi is the base for many cough syrups. Tulsi contains Vitamin C (again helpful in colds), salts such as calcium and phosphorous (good to build stamina), and carotene which is a source of vitamin A (good for the eyes). Tulsi also has the potency to reduce blood sugar levels, a problem which is prevalent in India. |
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