In Hindu religion it is worshipped every morning and evening .Basil grows under warm conditions .It is originally native to Iran ,India and other tropical regions of Asia. Tulsi leaves have many chemical compounds which help prevent diseases and promote good health .This herb is even mentioned in Charak Samhita due to its excellent healing properties.
· The juice of tulsi leaves can be used to bring
down
fever. Green Tea made with tulsi helps to bring down temp. Basil
leaves boiled with powdered cardamom in ½ liter of water mixed with sugar and
milk should be given to patient 3-4 times in a day.
· In cold, cough and flu it is very effective in all forms.
· It reduces the level of blood cholesterol and
thus helps to correct
heart disorder.
· It helps purify the blood.
· It acts as a stress reliever.
·
Applied locally it cures many
skin diseases like
ringworm,
leucoderma
etc.
· Leaves can be used in the preparation of soups and many dishes.
·
Chopped fresh leaves can be
used in
salads.
· Being rich in phytonutrients its leaves are
effective in
malaria and dengue fever.
· It contains orientin and vicenin. Due to
presence of these compounds in holy basil it works as an
antioxidant.
· Essential oil eugenol, linalol, citral,
limonene are present in it which work as
anti inflamatory and anti bacterial.
· Due to the presencs of Zea-Xanthin compound it
helps protect age related
macular diseases.
· It is an excellent source of Iron, potassium, manganese, copper and
magnesium.
· It helps prevent hair loss. Make a paste
of basil leaves and add it in hair oil. Apply this paste on your scalp, it
helps promote
hair
growth.
· Recommended dose :- 2- 3 drops of extract of basil leaves 2-3
times in a day.Overdose can cause many problems .
· NOTE :- women who are pregnant ,trying to become pregnant or breast
feeding should not use holy basil .
· Care should be taken with other NSAIDS.