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Ocimum Sanctum |
Unlike other magical herbs which are found mostly in the womb of Himalayas, “Tulsi” can be seen in most of the houses and temples in the Indian subcontinent and is easy accessible. This however contradicts one of the popular beliefs that most of the valuable things in life are either inaccessible or difficult to achieve.
Known for its extraordinary healing and prophylactic power, you can either chew its leaves directly or drink its decoction or apply its paste or simply smell its aroma, it will heal you in certain ways for sure.
Both the leaves and seeds of Tulsi are mucilaginous which prevent and cure several respiratory disorders. Apart from clearing bronchial tubes it also cures sore throat. In case of acute trouble take it with honey and ginger and you will start feeling better instantly, given its astringent taste.
If you are suffering from any heart ailment, chew 12 leaves of tulsi, twice a day; it will not only strengthen your heart, but will also purify blood and reduce blood cholesterol. Tulsi also strengthens the functioning of kidney and if regularly taken, it can even expel renal stones.
It also maintains dental health, fights bad breath and is very effective for ulcer and oral infections. If massaged on the gums, it can cure pyorrhoea and other teeth disorders. Its paste can cure insect stings or bites along with several skin diseases. 2 drops of tulsi juice into the eyes daily at bedtime can effectively cure sore eyes and other related troubles.
In short, Tulsi balances different processes in the body, and in addition is also considered to be an adaptogen, a nerve tonic, a stress reliever and a memory booster. Given its life saving effects and its potency against even chronic food poisoning it is regarded as an "elixir of life" in Ayurveda and thus goes the title!
Although scriptures don’t sanction commercial usage of this free gift from nature, it strongly recommends nurturing it in the house. In Vedic culture, Tulsi is revered as God’s spouse and symbolizes purity. It is worshiped by circum-ambulation and watering it which in Upanishad, is known to alleviate poverty and promote prosperity, longevity and happiness. Well ain't that obvious! The healthier you are, the more you prosper!
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Krishna Tulsi |
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Rama Tulsi |
Tulsi are easy to grow in tropical and temperate belts however it becomes extremely difficult in the polar region. Green houses or internal lighting is recommended in such regions. Apart from sunlight, it also needs daily watering. As it grows, it spreads very fast and forms manjaries (flower-seeds). Each manjary contains almost 250+ seeds and each of them compete for its own nutrients affecting the plant’s general health. It is thus recommended to clip them off between the two small leaves at the bottom of the manjary, every time the manjary dries and turns brown. Another manjary will grow therein and the leaves will continue to grow. This will keep the Tulsi healthy and ensure thick and bushy growth.