Tulsi, an Ayurvedic herb, has more to it than being just a plant in your household or something that adds a soothing aroma and flavour to your cup of tea.
The Indian kitchen is a repository of magical ingredients that boost several health benefits. Tulsi, also known as holy basil, is one of them. It is a sacred plant in Hindu culture that is worshipped and has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine for its various health benefits. Known as the ‘golden remedy of Ayurveda’ or ‘queen of herbs’, tulsi can be added to water to make tulsi water. This has health benefits for your mind and body.
1. Tulsi has antioxidant properties
“Tulsi contains compounds like flavonoids, polyphenols, and essential oils that act as antioxidants. These antioxidants aid in neutralizing harmful free radicals in the body, thereby decreasing oxidative stress and protects cells from damage,” shares the expert.
2. Drinking tulsi water can boost immunity
Tulsi is known to have immunomodulatory properties, which means it can help enhance the body’s immune response. Regular consumption of tulsi-infused water may help strengthen the immune system and make the body more resilient to infections.
3. Improve digestion with tulsi water
“The carminative properties of tulsi can aid in digestion and reduce gas and bloating. Drinking tulsi water may help soothe the digestive system and promote better digestion,” explains the expert.
Drinking tulsi water first thing in the morning and throughout the day in your water bottle can help flush out toxins and germs from your body right away and helps keep digestive ailments at bay.
4. Stress relief
As per the expert, “Tulsi is considered an adaptogenic herb, which means it may help the body adapt to stress and promote a sense of calm and relaxation. Drinking tulsi water could potentially help reduce stress and anxiety”.
5. Respiratory health
Tulsi has been traditionally used to alleviate respiratory issues like coughs, colds, and asthma. Drinking tulsi water may have a soothing effect on the respiratory system and provides relief from respiratory discomfort. Tulsi has powerful expectorant and antitussive properties, which help eradicate symptoms of phlegm, irritants, and symptoms of cold from the root cause.
6. Anti-inflammatory effects
The essential oils present in tulsi have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation and associated symptoms.
7. Oral health
Tulsi has anti-microbial properties that can help combat oral infections and improve overall oral health. Gargling with tulsi water may promote healthier gums and reduce bad breath.
8. Detoxification
“Tulsi is known to have a myriad of detoxifying properties that flushes rid of toxins from the body and aid the overall detoxification process,” says the expert.
However, it is still best to consult your doctor or nutritionist before incorporating tulsi into your daily diet.
