Holy basil
grows near Hindu temples in India.
The Ayurvedic herb tulsi, or holy basil, hails from India, where holistic doctors revere its multifaceted healing properties. Medicinal powders, tinctures (liquid extracts) and teas are derived from the plant's stems, seeds and leaves.
Benefits
Ayurvedic doctors commonly prescribe holy basil for viral infections, low energy and headaches, according to the Chopra Center.
History
Dr. Deepak Chopra, an Ayurvedic doctor, praises holy basil (tulsi) on his website: "Tulsi is a potent herb that has been used in India for thousands of years to treat colds, coughs, and flu."
Potential
This super herb acts as its own medicine chest. Dr. Chopra also cites benefits to cancer patients, asserting that holy basil protects healthy cells during chemotherapy treatment.
Features
A member of the basil family, the bushy plant comes in red and green and grows up to 18 inches in height.
Expert Recommendation
Laura Smith, CAP, LMP of the Ayurvedic Health Center in Bellingham, Washington, suggests taking one capsule with each meal. She emphasizes that Ayurvedic health practitioners treat the whole patient and that dosages may differ for each patient.
Warning
No modern research has yet been done on the long-term effects of ingesting holy basil. Consult with a health care professional about interaction with medications. Holy basil is not recommended for pregnant women, nursing mothers, babies or toddlers.
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