8 Benefits of Tulsi

Tulsi, also known as holy basil, has been used for centuries as a component of Ayurveda. Practitioners of traditional Indian medicine have largely regarded this versatile herb as a panacea -- it has been considered a viable treatment for conditions ranging from diabetes to asthma.

Few Western scientists have conducted large-scale trials to confirm the benefits of tulsi leaves. However, because it is associated with few or no side effects, Ayurvedic and Western herbalists may recommend it despite the lack of conclusive scientific evidence.

Preliminary trials note the following possible health benefits of tulsi leaves:

Adaptogen

Traditionally, tulsi has been viewed as an adaptogen -- an herb that supports a healthy response to physical and emotional stress. Tusli may help to prevent changes in mood, sleep, appetite, immunity and sex drive associated with stress.

Respiratory Benefits

Tulsi is commonly used in its native range as a home remedy for mild asthma and upper-respiratory infections. More studies are needed to confirm this effect.

Antioxidant

Like many medicinal herbs, tulsi leaves possess powerful antioxidant properties. It can help to protect the body from damage associated with free radicals-- compounds that have been linked to serious conditions like heart disease and cancer.

Anti-Cancer

Preliminary evidence suggests that tulsi can help to treat some forms of cancer, including breast cancer. Tulsi constricts the blood vessels that "feed" tumors, thereby slowing their growth. Until mroe is known, tulsi should not be used as a sole or primary treatment for cancer.

Pain Relief

Tulsi benefits people with painful medical condtitions because it acts as a COX-2 inhibitor. Compounds in this class can help to ease inflammatory and neurological pain. Some compounds in tusli oil are pharmacologically similar to prescription drugs used to treat pain.

Anti-Inflammatory

Tulsi owes many of its health benefits to its anti-inflammatory properties. Compounds in tulsi leaves help to relieve inflammation throughout the body, often with fewer side effects than pharmaceutical drugs.

Immune Support

People taking tulsi supplements recover from wounds more quickly than people who are not taking tulsi leaves. One benefit of tulsi is its traditionally renowned ability to combat viral infections and fevers.

Blood Sugar Support

Tulsi is one of many Ayurvedic herbs that can help to control blood sugar in people with diabetes. Tulsi benefits people with diabetes by reducing blood sugar levels without causing a sudden or drastic decline.