'Tulsi' secret to healthy living

Basil, commonly known as Tulsi, is one of the most revered plants in Hinduism. The shrub is widely used in Ayurveda for its healing property. An expert revealed that the plant has antimicrobial properties, because of the ursolic acid and carvacrol that are found in it. The medicinal plant can be used to prevent and treat viral fever and fungal infections.
Dr SA Khan, retired professor of forestry in Chandra Shekhar Azad Agriculture University, claimed that along with antimicrobial properties, the phytochemicals present in tulsi, Botanical Name: Ocimum Sanctum, offer antioxidant as well as immune-enhancing qualities. It also has adaptogenic properties, which means it enhances the body's ability to adapt to stress. “In Hindu Vedas tulsi is mentioned as ‘Vrinda’, while in Quran it is named as ‘Rehan’. Tulsi has many varieties out of which most common are Shyama (Black basil), Rama (Green basil) and Longa Tulsi. The shrub has anti-cancerous and anti-bacterial properties. Drinking Tulsi extract obtained by decocting is the best medicine to prevent viral and fungal infections. The method is simple, just boil 10 leaves of Tulsi in water, add a little honey for taste and drink the decoction atleast once a day,” he said.
Khan told us that Tulsi balances the calcium in the body, thus preventing Kidney stone and Gallbladder stone that are caused because of calcium imbalance. He said that the herb is rich in Iron, therefore can be used to treat anemia. Merely drinking a cup of decoction can help increase hemoglobin levels in kids, women and men. However, the leaves should not be eaten directly as Iron particles can damage teeth. “Not only this Tulsi oil can be used to heal burn or cuts. It can also help cure measles by just applying Tulsi extract. It is the best anti-oxidant and has anti-ageing properties. Regular consumption of Tulsi can help prevent cough, cold and treat Sinusitis,” the retired professor asserted.
Khan, who has worked for community health and hygiene sector of HRD ministry, further added that Longa Tulsi is one variety of the herb that can grow up to 16 feets. “The plant can be used to preserve the atmosphere. It can be planted on road sides to help check the pollution,” he said.
The expert also claimed that ‘Sadabahar’ plant could be used to prevent dengue.
One can keep the plant somewhere near the bed to prevent Aedes mosquito from approaching and infecting the person. The smell of the flower keeps the mosquito away from entering the room.