(New) 16 Ultimate Benefits of Tulsi

Cultural Significance of the Benefits of Tulsi

Ocimum tenuiflorum, also called Holy Basil or Tulsi, is a perennial plant cultivated in the Indian subcontinent. It is a sacred plant which is commonly seen in Indian households. Why commonly? It is because it has carved a special place for itself in Hinduism. Many families have Tulsi plants growing in front of or near their homes, often in individual pots or unique small masonry structures. Traditionally, Tulsi is grown in the centre of the courtyards of houses. The plant is cultivated for religious and medicinal purposes, particularly for its essential oil. Almost every part of Tulsi is used for different purposes. Also, it is consumed in the form of herbal tea.  The immense benefits of Tulsi are documented in Ayurveda, which is an integral part of Hinduism.

15 Ultimate Benefits of Tulsi

1. Tulsi's earthy, herbaceous appearance and hints of mint, liquorice and lemon, imparts peace of mind, mental clarity, and increases concentration.
2. Considered India's queen of herbs, Tulsi is a tonic refresher and detoxifier.
3. It stimulates blood circulation resulting in increased oxygen intake.
4. With abundant anti-oxidants and antibacterial compounds, it is excellent in treating minor infections.
5. It also treats various skin conditions like acne.
6. It helps neutralise the toxins of bug bites and stings.
7. It enhances skin health and lustre.
8. It provides nourishment and healing for dry, itchy scalp and improves hair lustre.
9. The aroma-therapeutic properties of tulsi sharpen the senses and alertness.
10. Tulsi is said to be an adaptogen which maintains homeostasis in the body. It is helpful in reducing stress.
11. Ayurveda has a special place for Tulsi because of its strong aroma and astringent taste. The belief is that it promotes longevity.
12. The leaves when chewed after meals act as a digestive.
13. It prevents gastric issues.
14. It helps prevent cough and cold.
15. Tulsi leaves prevent bacterial growth. They are frequently used to garnish the dishes.
16. It helps reduce the side-effects of chemotherapy for cancer patients.

The Legend of Holy Tulsi

There is a beautiful legend about Tulsi which is marked in every Indian's mind. One day, Tulsi went to the Lord with a grievance. Like Goddess Mahalakshmi, Tulsi too originated from the nectar of 'Samudra Manthan'. Be that as it may, while Lakshmi enhanced her chest, Tulsi felt dejected. She thought that she was not given importance, while Lakshmi was praised.

The Lord said that Lakshmi had done penance for her sins to deserve the importance. Lakshmi would show up on the Earth as the girl of Sage Markandeya. Tulsi's role was to spread herself as a shrub to protect Lakshmi, who might show up under a hedge. Lakshmi was meant to be raised by Sage Markandeya.

Tulsi showed up on the bank of the Cauvery waterway as per the prediction. The vegetation was so thick that her presence made the entire place look like tulsi backwoods. Sage Markandeya reached the place where Tulsi had flourished. He showered in the waterway and started to meditate. The sage could see the Lord with the power of his spiritual self. The sage did not sense the presence of the child who was under the tulsi hedge as he was preoccupied with the Lord's thoughts. When the Sage Markandya opened his eyes, he spotted the child and lifted her. He vowed to take care of her as his child. This baby was none other than our Goddess Mahalakshmi. Once she grew up, she was wedded to the Lord.