Tulsi Drink – Health Benefits

Native to India and cultivated throughout Southeast Asia, Tulsi is also known as holy basil, “Elixir of Life,” or “Queen of the Herbs.” The botanical name of tulsi is Ocimum sanctum or Ocimum tenuiflorum. 

Addition tulsi leaves to tea not only adds extra flavour to the tea but also offers plenty of adaptogenic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective and immunomodulatory health benefits. 

Nutritional value of Tulsi

Tulsi tea is high, as it comprises of vitamin A and C, calcium, zinc, iron, chlorophyll, bioactive compounds including eugenol, ursolic acid, β-caryophyllene, linalool, and 1,8-cineole etc.

One serving of tulsi tea has 6 calories – 66% carbohydrates, 19% protein and 15% fat. 

Possible health benefits of Tulsi…

Tulsi tea is said to help reduce stress, anxiety, metabolic and related health issues due to the presence of high concentration of adaptogen compounds. 

1/8. Benefits respiratory system

1. Tulsi drink helps in eliminating the phlegm from the throat. Due to the anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and the expectorant properties of Tulsi drink, it provides relief from cough, cold and several other respiratory complaints such as asthma and bronchitis.

2. The camphene, eugenol, and cineole content of Tulsi help in reducing the congestion. 

3. It enhances the immune system.

2/8. Regulates blood sugar

1. Tulsi tea enhances metabolism and promotes the processing of fats and carbohydrates.

2. It helps maintain blood sugar levels.

3/8. Benefits the heart

1. The high magnesium content of Tulsi makes it good for heart health.

2. Tusli decreases the chances of atherosclerosis.

3. Regular consumption of tulsi drink helps in lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

4. Tulsi acts as a tonic for the heart.

4/8. Benefits the Skin

1. The antioxidants and phytochemicals of tulsi help in maintaining healthy skin. 

2. Tulsi helps in delaying the signs of aging.

5/8. Useful in gastrointestinal disorders

1. Tulsi increases the mucus secretion and decreases stomach acid. 

2. It enhances the functioning of the bladder, bowels, and liver.  

3. It aids in the assimilation of carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids. 

4. It can be used to treat several gastrointestinal disorders such as constipation, ulcers, intestinal parasites, vomiting, or menstrual cramps.

6/8. Helps restrict cancer

1. The anti-carcinogenic and anti-oxidant properties of tulsi help in killing the free radicals in the body and restrict the growth of pre-cancerous cells. 

2. Regular consumption of Tulsi drink decreases the chances of cancer. 

7/8. Helpful in fevers

1. The antipyretic, anti-microbial, and antibacterial properties of tulsi help in treating microbial infections and in decreasing the temperature.

2. Tulsi is very effective in bringing down the fever.

8/8. Other possible health benefits…

Tulsi drink is helpful in maintaining dental and oral health, is good for arthritis patients, beats stress and can even be helpful in cases of mercury poisoning. It is good for brain as it improves circulation, endurance and memory. It is anti-inflammatory in nature. It helps liver to function normally. Orientin (a derivative of luteolin) and vicenin (an apigenin), two flavonoids protect blood cells from radiation induced DNA damage. 

Tulsi – Not only is it revered in India, tulsi also finds a place in the ancient science of Ayurveda and homeopathy.

How to Make Tulsi Tea?

Add 2tbsp chopped tulsi leaves in 1½ cup of water.

Boil the water for 5 to 10 minutes.

Strain the tulsi tea and serve it hot.