Thulasi or Tulsi, also known as holy basil, is a sacred plant in Hinduism and is considered as the "queen of herbs" in Ayurveda. Thulasi leaf powder is made by drying and grinding the leaves of the Thulasi plant. It is used in various traditional medicine systems and is known for its medicinal properties.
Here's everything you need to know about Thulasi leaf powder:
- Nutritional value: Thulasi leaf powder is rich in essential nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, iron, and zinc. It also contains phytochemical like eugenol, rosmarinic acid, and apigenin, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Medicinal properties: Thulasi leaf powder has various medicinal properties like anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral, and antibacterial. It is known to boost immunity, improve digestion, treat respiratory problems, and reduce stress and anxiety.
- Improves respiratory health: Thulasi leaf powder is an effective remedy for respiratory problems like asthma, bronchitis, and cough. It helps to clear the respiratory tract and reduce inflammation, making it easier to breathe.
- Regulates blood sugar levels: Thulasi leaf powder is known to have hypoglycaemic properties, which make it an effective remedy for regulating blood sugar levels. It helps to reduce insulin resistance and prevents complications associated with diabetes.
- Reduces stress and anxiety: Thulasi leaf powder has adaptogenic properties, which make it an effective remedy for reducing stress and anxiety. It helps to improve mood and cognitive function, making it easier to deal with stressful situations.
- Improves skin health: Thulasi leaf powder has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which make it an effective remedy for various skin problems like acne, eczema, and psoriasis. It helps to reduce inflammation and promote healing of the skin.
- Boosts immunity: Thulasi leaf powder is known to boost immunity and protect the body from various infections and diseases. It helps to increase the production of antibodies and white blood cells, which fight against pathogens.
How to Use Thulasi leaf powder?
Thulasi leaf powder is a versatile herbal remedy that can be used in various ways.
Here are some ways to use Thulasi leaf powder:
- As a tea: Add a teaspoon of Thulasi leaf powder to a cup of hot water and let it steep for a few minutes. You can add honey or lemon to enhance the flavor.
- In cooking: Thulasi leaf powder can be added to soups, stews, and curries for added flavor and health benefits.
- Topically: Mix Thulasi leaf powder with water to create a paste and apply it to the skin to treat various skin problems like acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
- Inhaling: Add a teaspoon of Thulasi leaf powder to a pot of boiling water and inhale the steam to relieve respiratory problems like cough, asthma, and bronchitis.
- Capsules or tablets: Thulasi leaf powder is also available in the form of capsules or tablets that can be consumed as a dietary supplement.
In conclusion, Thulasi leaf powder is a natural remedy that has numerous health benefits. It is safe and effective when consumed in moderation and can be used to treat various ailments. However, it is important to consult a doctor before consuming it, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have any underlying medical conditions.