- Improving stamina
- Reducing stress
- Boosting the immune system
- Supporting the metabolism - thus making this purple herb popular in the battle of the bulge.
How? What is it exaclty?
'The Queen of Herbs', Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) is more commonly known as Holy Basil in the West. NB- this is not the same as the basil (Ocimum basilicum) we grow on our windowsills, use to make pesto or sprinkle on salads - although that is very tasty and good for us too.
What's in it?
A series of complex compounds known as phytochemicals. Hundreds of them. Produced by plants, phytochemicals protect humans against disease. In the case of Tulsi, these compounds have strong:
- antioxidants
- antibacterial
- antiviral
- adaptogenic and
- immune-enhancing properties - enriching our natural defence and supporting the fight against the physical stresses that leads to illness.
According to Dr Ralph Miller, Director of Research, Canadian Dept of Health & Welfare, "Tulsi is especially effective in supporting the heart, blood vessels, liver and lungs and also regulates blood pressure and blood sugar."
He added that there is impressive scientific evidence that Tulsi reduces stress, enhances stamina, relieves inflammation, lowers cholesterol, eliminates toxins, protects against radiation, prevents gastric ulcers, lowers fevers, improves digestion and provides a rich supply of antioxidants and other nutrients.
Great so how do I get it?
The easiest way to absorb Tulsi is by drinking it. I've been trying The Organic Tulsi Tea Collection (useful resource) - which blends the very pious sounding Rama, Krishna and Vana Tulsi leaves, so if that doesn't do me some good on the spiritual plane, nothing will.
On a physical level, I did observe the soothing qualities of the tea and it is notably thirst quenching - but as with all medicines of this kind, the results become apparent over time - they are not quick fix.
There are plenty of Tulsi tea variations on the market, many flavoured with ginger for extra zing, or chai for spicy warmth, and of course not forgetting our old favourite green tea, which transforms the caffeine free Tulsi into a super charged, antioxidant boosting mid morning cuppa. But however you get your Tulsi, make sure you're getting it.
What does it taste like?
Like you'd expect an Indian flavoured tea to taste - a bit spicy, a bit smooth, a bit of an acquired taste.
How many cups a day?
As many as you wish. If you're drinking an organic, caffeine free (not green) variety. Splash out, go for 5 cups and give your liver a treat.
Where can I get it?
Your local health food shop has probably got a supplier, but if not, try Organic India's, supplied by Eastern-Venture. They are tasty and quality and 100% chemical and pesticide free. And you can feel good as you sip knowing you haven't just paid a high price for a lowly waged family of farmers in India - they are supported and treated fairly.