The ‘tulsi’ plant is an important symbol for Hindus and is worshipped daily. It is also an excellent source of medicine for some common ailments. Here are some of them:
1. Nerves: The leaves are good for the nerves and also sharpen the memory.
2. Fever & Common Cold: The leaves help to reduce fever. In cases of acute fever, a decoction of the leaves boiled with powdered cardamom in half a litre of water and mixed with sugar and milk brings down the temperature.
3. Coughs: Eating tulsi leaves relieves cold and flu.
4. Sore Throat: Water boiled with the leaves can be drunk in cases of sore throat. This water can also be used for gargling to ease the throat.
5. Respiratory Disorder: A decoction of the leaves with honey and ginger is an effective remedy for bronchitis, asthma, influenza, coughs and cold.
6. Kidney Stone: In case of renal stones the juice of tulsi leaves and honey, if taken regularly for six months, will expel them via the urinary tract.
7. Heart Disorder: Eating a few leaves daily has a beneficial effect on the heart. It reduces the level of blood cholesterol as well.
8. Children’s Ailments: Common problems like cold, fever, diarrhoea and vomiting respond favourably to the juice of the leaves.
9. Stress: Eating a few leaves twice daily protects one from stress.
10. Mouth Infections: Eating a few leaves are quite effective for ulcers and other infections in the mouth.
11. Insect Bites: Taking a teaspoonful of the juice of the leaves is helpful in treating insect bites. Fresh juice can also be applied to the affected parts.
12. Skin Disorders: Applied externally, tulsi juice is beneficial in the treatment of skin diseases.
13. Teeth Disorder: The herb is useful in teeth disorders. Its leaves, dried in the sun and powdered, can be used for brushing teeth. It can also be mixed with mustard oil 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 pyorrhoea and other teeth disorders.
14. Headaches: Pounded leaves mixed with sandalwood paste can be applied on the forehead for getting relief from heat, headache and for providing coolness.
