Tulsi has proved to be highly effective in protecting our body from various infections and diseases of the liver, skin, kidney, etc. It contains powerful oxidants that can help in keeping your blood pressure levels and cholesterol levels under control, making it one of the best heart-healthy foods. It is also good for diabetes as it possesses hypoglycaemic properties which are known to help lower blood sugar levels. It is recommended to include tulsi in your diabetic diet plan. Owing to its numerous health benefits, tulsi is rightly called the ‘Queen of Herbs’.

Tulsi has a special place in Ayurveda as well as the home of Hindus in India. It is considered sacred by Hindus and worshipped by them. Three main types of Tulsi are seen growing in India:

1. Bright green leaves called Ram Tulsi
2. Purplish green leaves called Krishna Tulsi
3. Common wild Vana Tulsi.

Nutritional Value:

Tulsi leaves are rich in vitamins A, C and K and minerals like calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron and potassium. It also has a good amount of protein and fibre. Here’s an in-depth nutritional chart for Tulsi (also known as Basil) for a 100g serving. Note that when used as a herb you will consume much fewer quantities of Tulsi. 

Keep in mind that fresh Tulsi leaves and dried (or powdered leaves) may contain slightly higher proportions of the above nutrients.

Research-Backed Benefits of Tulsi are:

1. Natural Immunity Booster:

Tulsi is rich in Vitamin C and zinc. It thus acts as a natural immunity booster and keeps infections at bay. It has immense anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal properties which protect us from a variety of infections. Tulsi leaves extract increases the T helper cells and natural killer cells activity, boosting the immune system.

Also, Read 7 Tips to Boost Immunity.

2. Reduces Fever (antipyretic) & Pain(analgesic):

Tulsi has anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties which help to fight infections, thus reducing fever. The fresh juice of Tulsi taken with black pepper powder cures periodic fevers. Tulsi leaves boiled with powdered cardamom (elaichi) in half a litre of water and mixed with sugar and milk, are also effective in reducing temperature.

Eugenol, a terpene with pain-relieving properties found in Tulsi reduces aches in the body.

3. Reduces Cold, Cough & Other Respiratory Disorders:

Camphene, cineole and eugenol present in Tulsi help reduce cold and congestion in the chest.

Juice of Tulsi leaves mixed with honey and ginger is effective in bronchitis, asthma, influenza, cough and cold.

4. Reduces Stress & Blood Pressure:

Tulsi contains compounds Ocimumosides A and B. These compounds reduce stress and balance the neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine in the brain. The anti-inflammatory properties of Tulsi reduce inflammation and blood pressure.