Holy Basil –Ayurvedic herb for prolonged life
By Shankar.
’Tulasi’, or Holy Basil is an Ayurvedic medicinal herb that has its base in India. Not only as a medicinal herb, this herb is also considered as the most sacred plant and hence, worshipped by the Hindus. It has been used for thousands of years as a medicinal herb having diverse healing properties and as such, many Ayurvedic tonics and treatments are based on it. It is highly aromatic and astringent in taste.
Holy Basil is regarded as the ‘Queen of Herbs’ as it is regarded as ‘the incomparable one’. Research and studies have proved that this herb actually promotes excellent health as it has many disease-preventing capabilities. It also helps in prolonged life.
Holy Basil is an adaptogen – it helps the mind and body to cope up with all the emotional problems and situations very effectively. Its anti-stress agent reduces the level of stress and depression. Chewing a few leaves of Holy Basil purifies the blood, and prevents many mental problems. This herb is a good nerve tonic and also enhances memory.
Holy basil is an immune booster – when taken daily, it can prevent common fever, cold, and cough. Especially during the rainy season, when diseases like malaria and dengue fever are at their peak, drinking tea laced with Holy Basil is very effective.
To get rid of common fever, prepare a decoction of the Holy Basil leaves in half a liter of water, sugar, and cardamom, and drink this daily till the temperature goes down.
Holy Basil is one of the main ingredients in many Ayurvedic medicines that can cure cough, and in the process, cures bronchitis and asthma. It boosts immunity and therefore, eating the leaves daily will keep you safe from fever, cold, and cough. Its anti-allergic agent helps in treating all respiratory problems. Decoction prepared with Holy Basil leaves, honey, and ginger gives immense relief from sore throat.
According to Ayurveda, this herb promotes longevity and therefore, it is regarded as the ‘elixir of life’. The extracts of this herb are very effective Ayurvedic remedies for inflammation, headaches, stomach disorders, diabetes, heart diseases, reduces cholesterol level, and skin disorders.
Start adding Holy Basil leaves to your tea and consume it daily to have all the health benefits offered by this Ayurvedic holy herb that cures and prevents health problems naturally. If you don’t want to add the leaves in tea, you can just chew some leaves, several times a day (like you would chew chewing gums). Only difference is that you don’t throw out the leaves after chewing, but swallow it.
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