Basil Benefits

Start writing... Basil or Tulsi is also known the “The Queen of Herbs” or “Elixir of Life”. It has an incomparable status among the other herbs due to its medicinal, culinary and spiritual properties. There are three different varieties of Tulsi. Rama Tulsi which has green leaves, Krishna Tulsi which has purple leaves, and Vana Tulsi, which is a wild variety and has light green leaves. Basil plants are being grown in India since the Vedic period and are held sacred by the Hindus. They are usually planted around the temples and can also be found in most Indian houses. The size and colour of the basil plants vary depending on the geography, rainfall and plant type.It has a wide range of uses from cooking to medicine. The aromatic fragrance and bitter taste of basil is a treat to taste buds when consumed with salads and sauces. In ancient times, Tulsi was considered a symbol of purity. It was believed that even going near a Tulsi plant and smelling it can protect you from many infections.Because of its spiritual status, it is also known as the holy basil. In Ayurveda, basil is known to provide a wide array of health benefits. Basil has anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic, chemo-preventive, hepatoprotective (protects liver), anti-diabetic, and anti-asthmatic properties.benefits for eyes.Eyes are one of the most important sensory organs. However, as we age, our vision tends to become weak and the probability of getting eye diseases increases sharply. Some of the most common eye diseases include age-related macular degeneration, cataract, and glaucoma (buildup of pressure in the eye).Ayurveda has always used basil as one of the most important ingredients in the preparation of eye medicines. According to Ayurveda, basil leaf extract, when used in the form of eye drops, can help prevent painful eye diseases such as glaucoma, cataract and conjunctivitis.health benefits.As an antioxidant: Basil is a potent antioxidant due to the presence of bioactive compounds, which makes it excellent for the health of your skin and hair. It only protects the body from excessive oxidative stress and damage while improving the texture of the skin and hair. Additionally, it is effective against several skin infections and conditions like psoriasis, leprosy and eczema. As an antimicrobial agent, it helps in the management of skin wounds and insect bites. Concerning hair, the use of basil not only delays hair greying and fall but also baldness and alopecia.For oral health: Tulsi is useful in the management of dental caries, toothache and gingivitis.For the stomach: Basil helps in providing relief from constipation by enhancing the process of digestion. Concotion of basil is also effective in improving appetite.For stress: Basil is effective in the management of physical, psychological, chemical and metabolic stress.For eyes and ears: The use of basil leaves in the form of eye drops helps to relieve painful eye conditions like glaucoma, cataract and conjunctivitis. Basil oil also helps to relieve infections and pain in the middle ear.Against cancer: Several studies have explored the anti-cancer potential of basil and it has been found to be effective in the management of stomach cancer.stress.Basil is considered a powerful anti-stress agent. Several studies have reported that basil is effective against physical, psychological, chemical as well as metabolic stress.A preclinical study done to evaluate the antistress effect of basil showed that it was effective in preventing the increase of cortisol, the stress hormone of the body. The research further indicated that the presence of ursolic acid in basil is responsible for its antistress property.side effects.Consumption of basil in excessive quantities by pregnant women may have long-term complications on both the mother and the child. Basil has the possibility of triggering uterine contractions in pregnant women. So, pregnant women are advised to talk to a doctor before consuming basil.Preclinical studies stated that basil reduces fertility levels in the body. Women who are trying to conceive or breastfeeding should avoid using basil. Regular consumption of basil leaves might also affect the fertility levels in men, as it is found to reduce the sperm count.Eugenol is a powerful compound present in basil. It has been found to possess anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antiseptic properties. However, eugenol overdose can lead to shallow breathing, mouth and throat inflammation, nausea, rapid heartbeat, seizures and dizziness.Takeaway.Tulsi, the elixir of life has numerous health benefits. Not only does it help in protecting the eyes, ears and teeth but also it is a potential anticancer agent. It exhibits antibacterial, antimicrobial and antifungal properties and it is loaded with antioxidants. However, pregnant women and women who are trying to conceive should avoid using basil. It is known to reduce the sperm count in men as well. Therefore, it is important to consume tulsi in moderate quantities that will benefit the health.