It amazes how we keep rediscovering secrets that are actually thousands of years old. I think that these revelations are causing a shift in our thinking. Speaking for myself, I know that I now think twice before I scoff at an "old wives tale". I spent many years following modern beliefs and advances and discounting the old ways. Since my husband is from India, I starting hearing about some of these "old ways" about fifteen years ago. When my mother in law suffered a deep cut in her hand while chopping vegetables, I questioned her decision to make a paste of turmeric and water to apply this to the cut. It seemed backward and maybe even dangerous. Well, It turns out that Turmeric has antibacterial properties and it was the smartest thing she could have done. Or when my husband eats papaya at the first sign of stomache discomfort. Studies have found that this tropical fruit actually has the power to kill some food poisoning- right in its tracks! So I tried to hold back any judgement when I learned of the sacred plant, Tulsi. Every Indian family has atleast one Tulsi plant. It's actually considered a holy plant. Tulsi is also known as "holy basili," it is a principle herb of Ayurveda, India's ancient holistic health system. Ayurveda means "knowledge of life". Tulsi is treated with great respect, you don't even go near the plant until you have showered and you are "pure". It is said that if you touch or even water the Tulsi plant without showering, it will die. After doing some research, I found there are many reasons to love the Tulsi plant. In addition to the blessing and good vibe the Tulsi will bring, according to ancient wisdom, there are numerous medical benefits:
1. Fever & Common Cold: The leaves of holy Tulsi are used for many ailment- even malaria and dengue fever The juice of Tulsi leaves can be used to bring down fever. Tea made from Tulsi should be given every 2 to 3 hours. In children, it is every effective in safely bringing down fever.
2. Coughs: Tulsi is the active ingredient of many Ayurvedic cough syrups and expectorants. It helps to mobilize mucus in bronchitis and asthma. Chewing Tulsi leaves relieves symptoms of colds and flu.
3. Sore Throat: Tulsi tea can be taken as drink in case of sore throat. This water can also be used as a gargle.
4. Respiratory Disorder: The herb is useful in the treatment of respiratory system disorder. A decoction of the leaves, with honey and ginger is an effective remedy for bronchitis, asthma, influenza, cough and cold. A decoction of the leaves, cloves and common salt also gives immediate relief in case of influenza. They should be boiled in half a liter of water till only half the water is left and add then taken.
5. Heart Disorder: Tulsi has a beneficial effect in cardiac disease and the weakness resulting from them. It reduces the level of blood cholesterol.
6. Children's Ailments: Common pediatric problems like cough cold, fever, diarrhea and vomiting respond favorably to the juice of Tulsi leaves.
7. Stress: Tulsi leaves are regarded as an anti-stress agent. Recent studies have shown that the leaves afford significant protection against stress. Even healthy persons can chew 12 leaves of Tulsi, twice a day, to prevent stress. It purifies blood and helps prevent several common elements.
8. Mouth Infections: The leaves are known to be effective for the ulcer and infections in the mouth. A few leaves chewed will cure these conditions.
9. Insect Bites: The herb is a preventive and curative for insect stings or bites. A teaspoonful of the juice of the leaves is taken and is repeated after a few hours. Fresh juice must also be applied to the affected parts. A paste of fresh roots is also effective in case of bites of insects and leeches.
10. Skin Disorders: Applied locally, Tulsi juice is beneficial in the treatment of ringworm and other skin diseases.
11 Tooth & Gum Disorders: Tulsi leaves, dried in the sun and powdered, can be used for brushing teeth. It can also be mixed with mustered oil to make a paste and used as toothpaste. This is very good for maintaining dental health, counteracting bad breath and for massaging the gums. It is also useful in pyorrhea and other mouth disorders.
12. Headaches: Tulsi makes a good medicine for headache. A decoction of the leaves can be given for this disorder. Pounded leaves mixed with sandalwood paste can also be applied on the forehead for getting relief from heat, headache, and for providing coolness in general.
13. Eye Disorders: Tulsi juice is an effective remedy for sore eyes and night-blindness, which is generally caused by deficiency of vitamin A. Two drops of black Tulsi juice are put into the eyes daily at bedtime. You can grow your own Tulsi plant. It will thrive outdoors in the summer, but if you live in a chilly climate, like Chicago, you must bring it inside when the temperature drops. You can find Tulsi seeds on Amazon and even E-Bay! If you're less adventurous, you find find Tulsi tea in numerous places, Locally, the Vitamin Shoppe carries it, as well as a variety of websites. I'm going to attempt to grow my own from seeds. I'll also be buying the tea (as a back up). You can never go wrong with a nice cup of tea : )
