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Subhamoy's Hinduism Blog

By Subhamoy Das, About.com Guide to Hinduism since 1999

15 Health Benefits of the Holy Basil (Tulsi)

Monday June 15, 2009
The 'tulsi' or holy basil is an important symbol in the Hindu religious tradition and is worshipped in the morning and evening by Hindus at large. A Hindu household is considered incomplete without a tulsi plant in the courtyard. Vaishnavites or believers of Lord Vishnu wear beaded necklaces made of tulsi stems.

Apart from its religious significance, the tulsi is also an ayurvedic remedy for a number of common ailments, including cold and cough, fever, sore throat, stress and mouth infections. It is also used in treating respiratory and heart disorders as well as kidney stones. No wonder, the tulsi is called a 'power plant' and widely venerated.

Illustration © Subhamoy Das

Comments

June 16, 2009 at 10:24 am
(1) Sandra Alva says:

Why would anyone choose to sell the tulsi herb? This plant grows freely is almost all tropical climate. Do we always have to seek monetary gains in everything we lay our hands upon?

June 16, 2009 at 2:19 pm
(2) Ray Kaye says:

Your question contains the answer. It may grow freely in the tropical conditions, yet one does not see it growing freely like that, all over the world. In fact, where some plants grow naturally, the Sumac plant is considered a weed, in other territories it is sold at garden centers as ornamental plants.

Unfortunatly, this is the way of capitalism, if there is a market for it, it will be sold.

June 18, 2009 at 10:30 am
(3) Sushila Karia says:

TULSI,
The most respected and religios plant in Hindusim. It is good to use as medicine but we should not forget the real Value and the Respect fot TULSHIJI. Thanking you very much,
Sushila

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