The Secrets of Tulsi…Unveiled
There’s undeniable evidence that tulsi tea has improved the health of people on many levels. Studies show tulsi changes us physically, metabolically, chemically, and psychologically in a good way. One of the easiest ways to consume this therapeutic herb is by drinking tulsi tea.
When Dr. Mercola did a segment on this wondrous herb, I rushed to learn everything I could. Little did I know, Indians have been reaping all the magical benefits from this plant for centuries and we in the West have yet to jump on the wagon. When I found out that it can be taken in tea format, I was that much happier and it has now become a staple in my home! Let’s examine this wonderful plant and learn how it can enhance your well being.
Tulsi Belongs to a Family of Flavorful Herbs
Ocimum sanctum (pronounced “ah-sah-mum” “sank-tum”) is tulsi’s scientific name. Tulsi, also known as holy basil, belongs to plant family named “Lamiaceae” (pronounced “La-me-a-see”). Along with tulsi, a host of tasty herb plants belong to the lamiaceae family. These include rosemary, thyme, and marjoram, lavender, oregano, sage, common basil herb, and others.
The 5,000 Year-Old Tulsi Plant
Tulsi was cultivated for thousands of years in Africa, and Asia and it’s native to those regions. In the sixteenth century, it made its way from India over to Europe and then America. It has special reverence in India. It’s used there as a staple medicinal sacred herb.
Tulsi: Holy Basil – The Queen of Herbs
It’s no wonder many call the Tulsi “holy basil” and “The queen of herbs.” From its roots to the stem, every part of the tulsi plant is useful. Tulsi leaves contain therapeutic essential oils. The plant also has ascorbic acid, which is a natural antioxidant. Flavonoids Vitamins A and C are also prevalent in Tulsi. It has traces of protein and zinc too.
Tulsi is used to Treat Common but Troublesome Ailments
The herb treats allergies and the common cold. It soothes sore throats, aids in digestion, and helps with gastric disorders. It’s an anti-inflammatory plant. Back pain sufferers and arthritis sufferers may find relief with Tulsi.
A Protectant Against Toxic Chemical Exposure
The Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine published an article written by Professor Marc Maurice Cohen of Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology. In “Tulsi – Ocimum Sanctum: A Herb for All Reasons,” Professor Cohen talks about how scientific research proves tulsi’s beneficial effects. He tells of amazing results from test studies. One fascinating study concluded that when people were introduced to pesticides and other toxic chemicals, tulsi had the ability to ward off liver, brain, and kidney damage.
The Immune System Booster
Professor Cohen also mentioned in his article that there was a test that proved the Tulsi extract enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity. This means that it’s a powerful boost to existing antioxidants already in the body. It strengthens the immune system.
Another study observed participants for five days. During this time, they ingested the tulsi leaf extract in doses of between 50 and 200 milligrams (mg) twice a day. The results showed the tulsi leaf protected the participants against gastric ulcers that were stress-induced.
Contains Little to No Caffeine
Tulsi in its natural state is considered an herbal stimulant. It provides energy without the jittery side effects that caffeine can induce in some people. Realize though that just as some green tea brands are void of caffeine, others contain the substance. More often than not, green teas that have black tea or other substances such as additional flavors, may have caffeine added as well.
Unless it states “caffeine free” or “decaffeinated,” presume that your tea brand contains some caffeine. Most green teas contain between 10 mg and 25 mg of caffeine per serving. This is much less than the up to 95 mg of caffeine present in regular coffee. In addition to the lower amounts of caffeine, with tulsi green tea, you’ll get an abundance of health benefits that coffee is unable to provide.
Tips for Purchasing Quality Tea
You’ll find the green powdered tea in its original flavor available in tea bag form and bulk packages. Tulsi-based combinations include a breakfast tea blend, mixed with cinnamon rose, or ginger. There’s fruity fusions such as mango, pomegranate and peach tulsi too. Although each variety differs in aroma and taste, you’ll benefit from overall improved health.
Look for the words “certified” or “organic” on the label. Check the caffeine amount as well. Most packages show instructions for preparing this lovely healthy tea. Just in case that bit of information is missing, here’s the standard way to make a great cup of tulsi green tea.
Basic Instructions on How to Prepare a Cup of Tulsi Tea
1. Boil water.
2. Place one teaspoon of powdered tea in your favorite tea cup.
3. Pour boiling water over the tea.
4. Steep for five minutes and taste to test its strength. Note that some people prefer to steep tulsi for up to 20 minutes. Test steeping times to determine your preference.
5. Sweeten with a natural sweetener or drink as is.
Considerations
Avoid drinking green powdered tea if you’re trying to conceive because it has anti-fertility effects. There may be some drug interactions with certain medications so check it against this list.
Despite countless studies, as of 2015, The U. S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) remains slow to recognize tulsi as a medicinal wonder. Take time to discover it’s healing and preventive disease properties on your own. Since each situation is different, effects may vary from person to person.
You have much to gain by drinking tulsi green tea. Look forward to reduced stress, improved antioxidant power, cell protection, and increased energy. Drink a cup or two of tulsi tea today. Achieve superior results for the greatest healthy impact on your brain, body, and soul.
Have you tried Tulsi Tea? Want to learn more? Let us know in the comment section below.
Hello my name is maranda im from Trinidad and I started drinking the tea today we got the tree here so I boiled some today I will try like one cup aday cause I read like ppl have side effects….thanks for sharing