ॐ Hindu Of Universe ॐ

“God’s light is within you, It never leaves you.”

In Hindu tradition, Tulsi or the Holy Basil is considered as a mother.

It is one of the most sacred plants and is known to be self-purifying.

Many stories and legends in the Indian Mythology beckon the reasons why Tulsi is worshipped:

Story – Tulsi cursed Lord Vishnu

One such story states that, once Tulsi Devi descended as the daughter of King Kushadvaja and was married to Jalandara, a king of demons. 

Jalandara drew strength from her purity and chastity.

So firm was her chastity that even Lord Shiva could not defeat Jalandara in battle.

All the demigods went to Lord Vishnu for help.

At that time, Lord Vishnu tricked Tulsi devi to believe he was her husband, Jalandara.

Her chastity was momentarily broken and taking advantage of this the demigods killed Jalandara.

On knowing the truth shei cursed Lord Vishnu to become a stone due to His stone hearted behaviour.

Honouring His pure devotee, Lord Vishnu accepted this curse and promised to appear as the Saligrama shila in the Gandika river (now in Nepal).

He also gave her the benediction that she will eternally reside with Him as His consort in Vaikuntha.

He said that for the benefit of every one she will assume the form of a plant which will be most auspicious for anyone performing devotional service.

This is one reason that no offering to Lord Krishna is complete without the Tulsi leaf. 

Its leaves decorate His feet, and are woven into beautiful garlands to be worn around His neck.

The Vedic scriptures state that – ‘Krishna gives Himself to a devotee who offers Him a Tulsi leaf and a palm full of water.’

Story – Weighing Lord Krishna

Another legend states that when Devi Satyabhama weighed Lord Krishna against all her legendary wealth, the scales did not balance until a Tulsi leaf was placed on the scale by Rukmini with complete devotion. 

This demonstrated that even if a small object is offered with complete devotion, it has the power to outweigh all the materialistic wealth.

The wood of withered Tulsi plants is used to carve beads that devotees wear around their necks, and also use as Japa Mala for chanting the Hare Krishna mantra.

Tulsi is also revered as Goddess Lakshmi.

Thus, those who wish for a healthy and prosperous life worship this plant.

Tulsi Vivaah (Marriage)

Every year Tulsi Vivaah is celebrated with grandeur.

On this day, she is married to Lord Vishnu.

The ceremony is performed on the 11th Day of Kartika according to the Hindu Lunar Calendar.

The day falls around October mid and inaugurates the marriage season in India.

A Medicinal Plant

Apart from the profound religious significance, Tulsi is also used for its medicinal properties.

It is known as the “Sanjeevani for the humankind” because all its part can be used to cure various ailments.

It is also an antibiotic.

If Tulsi Tea is ingested daily, it stimulates immunity, balances body system and prolongs life.

Having it’s plant at home wards off insects and mosquitoes.

It is said that snakes refrain from getting anywhere close to the sacred plant.

Lastly, Tulsi also generates a significant amount of oxygen which is vital for our survival.

So grow this most auspicious and beneficial plant around you and be blessed by it’s countless benefits.

Why Do We Worship Tulsi Plant?

Indian culture has many traditions that go back further than most people know.

To this very day, they are a part of our everyday lives, and they continue to affect our lifestyles.

It’s often the case of living with one foot in the past and one foot in the present.

However, it is so important to know what sets Indian culture apart from others and why we do what we do.

One habit that is deeply steeped in Indian tradition is worshipping the Tulsi plant.

We’ve seen our grandmothers and mothers do it, day in and day out but do you know why it is done?

The plant is usually given its space, preferably in the central courtyard, at one’s home.

The masonry structure built to house the plant is called the Tulsi Vrindavan, and it usually has images of Lord Vishnu and his other forms like Krishna and Vithoba.

Another Goddess, Lakshmi, is also closely associated with the Tulsi plant,

and it is said that for those who wish to have a prosperous and peaceful life, this plant is an absolute must in the household.

But there isn’t just one kind of Tulsi, there actually are two; the lighter Rama Tulsi and the slightly darker Shyama Tulsi.

It is the Shyama Tulsi, with its dark purplish leaves that is more closely associated with Krishna as the leaves are said to resemble his complexion.

In ancient scriptures, the Tulsi is regarded as a gateway between heaven and earth.

A holy prayer describes the Tulsi as having the supreme creator Brahma in its branches,

the sacred Hindu scripture called the Vedas in its lower branches, all other deities in its stem and the Ganges running through its roots along with the center of all Hindu pilgrimage.

This vivid description makes you understand the significance that this plant holds in the hearts and minds of its devotees.

The images speak of thousands of years of history and legacy upon which modern traditions have been built.

Keeping all this in mind it makes sense that the person who takes care of a Tulsi plant at home is duly rewarded.

That person is said to gain moksha or salvation because of the care that they have shown towards the Tulsi.

Finally, the Tulsi is also widely known for its medicinal values and is the core ingredient of many traditional healing methods.

SIGNIFICANCE OF WORSHIPPING TULSI PLANT

Tulsi is believed to be a physical incarnation of the Goddess Lakshmi, she is worshipped every day for peace and prosperity.

Moreover, the sacred plant helps people eliminate Vastu Dosha, if any.

In ancient households, a Tulsi plant would also find a special place for worship.

People would do parikrama (circumambulate) to pay their respects to the Goddess.

The presence of Tulsi helps in warding off evil and negativity.

The Tulsi or the Vrinda is believed to be the gateway to heaven or Vaikuntha, the abode of Lord Vishnu.

And therefore, she helps devotees in getting closer to their ultimate goal, Moksha (liberation from the vicious cycles of birth, death and rebirth).

Significance of Tulsi Plant: Why Is the Tulsi Plant Worshipped?

The significance of Tulsi plant in India has never dwindled, even in its 5,000-year history.

The reason the tulsi plant holds such great importance in a traditional Hindu home is due to several reasons.

In the following article, you will know about the various tulsi plant significance including cultural, religious and medicinal.

Religious Significance of Tulsi Plant – An Important Part of Puja Ceremony

The religious significance of Tulsi plant is far-reaching.

The ladies of an orthodox Hindu household worship it diligently.

The tulsi plant is grown in the center of the house, on an altar-like structure called tulsi chaura.

Indians consider it as one of the most sacred plants.

One nurtures the Tulsi plant with immense care and reverence.

Tulsi leaves are an essential ingredient of the panchamrita in a puja ceremony.

In fact, it is known as the only holy object that is a part of the worship.

One can also clean and reuse it for another puja because the Tulsi plant purifies itself.

Leaves of Tulsi Plant Used as an Offering to God

Tulsi plant significance does not end there as the tulsi plant leaves are used to make a garland.

It is the first offering to the Lord during the daily alankaran ritual.

People believe that all offerings to Lord Vishnu are incomplete without the tulsi leaf.

This is because the vibrations of a tulsi mala (garland) are said to remain in harmony with Lord Vishnu’s vibrations.

In Vaishnava philosophy, the tulsi leaves please Lord Vishnu the most.

Rosaries, tulsi malas are made from the dried stems of the plant.

No wonder the, Vaishnavites always use tulsi mala, particularly while reciting Vishnu mantras.

It helps them to stay in harmony with Lord Vishnu’s soul and vibrations.

Krishna’s Regard for Tulsi – Mythological Significance of Tulsi Plant

According to folklore, once upon a time, Lord Krishna (one of the avatars of Vishnu) held a tulabharam.

Tulabharam is a religious practice of weighing a person against coins, grain, vegetables, gold, etc.

So this is where one sits on one of the pans of the balance scale.

On the other pan of the balance, one places all the gold ornaments of his queen, Satyabhama.

Even then the weight of these ornaments could not outweigh Krishna! Yes, that’s true! However, a single tulsi leaf which was beside his second queen, Rukmini, tilted the balance.

The anecdote goes to show that even Lord Krishna regards tulsi as superior to himself.

Therefore, such was the respect and superiority of the tulsi plant, which Krishna gave.

Queen Of Indian Herbs – Medicinal Significance of Tulsi Plant

Believe it or not, Tulsi plant is indeed the queen of all Indian herbs.

None of the Puranas describe the tulsi as feminine.

But Tulsi symbolizes Goddess Lakshmi, the ultimate consort of Lord Vishnu.

Those who wish to remain righteous and lead a happy family life, worship the tulsi.

There’s definitely no compromise here.

Also, from a simple cold to the cooking purpose, tulsi plant significance in the medical aspect is far-reaching.

There are several benefits of the Tulsi plant.

Along with other Hindu gods and goddesses, tulsi is also a part of the worshipping, in the Tulsi Manas Mandir at Varanasi.

Hence, though it may not remain as a part of the Puranas, people treat and have faith in tulsi extensively.

Tulsi Vivah

Hindus perform a special tulsi puja annually on the ekadashi of shukla paksha.

Or people even perform it on the eleventh bright day of the month of kartika.

On either of these two days, the tulsi is ceremonially married to Lord Vishnu.

One decorates the tulsi plant, grown in an earthen pot, like a bride.

On the other hand, one decorates Vishnu, in the form of a shaligrama. Shaligrama is nothing but a black fossil found on the bed of the river Gandaki, in Nepal.

This is kept in the tulsi pot to symbolize the marriage.

This whole procedure or process ritual is called a tulsi vivaha.

The same day when one performs this ritual, it’s a sign of the marriage season. Especially in North India, it symbolises the beginning of the marriage season.

The Curse

According to one legend, Tulsi was the loyal and pious wife of Shankhachuda. Shankhachuda is a celestial demon who often threatens the gods.

People believe that the source of Shankhachuda’s strength was his chaste and loyal wife.

To weaken the demon’s strength, Lord Vishnu plays a trick which makes her sin.

When she understood the trick, it was too late.

But she cursed Lord Vishnu to turn into a black stone, I.e, shaligrama.

Seeing her devotion and adherence to righteousness, Vishnu blesses her.

Then she said that she would continue to live on earth as a blessing.

Thereafter, the tradition of tulsi vivaha began.

Vishnu also said that all offerings to him are entirely incomplete without the tulsi leaf.

Interestingly, tulsi leaves are never given to Lord Ganesha.

Impressive Scientific Evidence – Benefits of Tulsi Plant

Modern scientific research offers impressive evidence that tulsi reduces stress which is another tulsi plant significance.

It also enhances stamina and relieves inflammation to a great extent.

Not only this, but it also lowers cholesterol and eliminates toxins.

Protection against radiation and prevention of gastric ulcers is a cakewalk for tulsi.

It lowers fevers, improves digestion, and provides a rich supply of antioxidants and other nutrients.

The Incomparable One

A Sanskrit shloka describes the tulsi as “the incomparable one” in its qualities.

Apart from the religious significance of Tulsi plant, it has tremendous medicinal value too.

Rich Antioxidant

All in all, it is a rich antioxidant and is also known for its restorative qualities.

Moreover, this unique plant is especially effective in supporting the heart, blood vessels, liver and lungs.

This also regulates blood pressure and blood sugar.

Karpoora Tulsi

One can even extract the essential oil from karpoora tulsi.

Well, karpoora tulsi is just another variety of tulsi.

This is mostly helpful for various medicinal purposes.

However, recently it is useful even in the manufacture of herbal toiletries.

Recently, organic tulsi has also dwelling in the pipeline for the first time as a stress reliever and an energizer. But further research and backing are necessary for these two pointers.

Mosquito Repellent

The tulsi is said to be a great mosquito repellent as well. In a letter to The Times, London, of the date 2 May 1903, Dr George Birdwood, Professor of Anatomy, Grant Medical College, Bombay. It said:

‘When the Victoria Gardens came into existence in Bombay, the mosquitoes were pestering the staff employees.

Because of the recommendation of the Hindu managers, the whole boundary of the gardens was spread with holy basil.

This is where the plague of mosquitoes was at once minimized.

And fever altogether disappears from among the resident gardeners.’

Absorbing UV rays

Well, another property of the tulsi leaves is that they can absorb ultraviolet radiation. Yes, you heard that right! Isn’t it amazing?

This is why tulsi leaves are kept on food items during an eclipse.

They can protect them from any kind of radiation.

Other Significance of Tulsi Plant

• Please note that the tulsi plant is very sensitive to any strong odour. Therefore, if a lady touches the plant during her menstrual cycle or even goes near it, the plant will soon wither away.
• Then again, the plant discharges electrical impulses at night which are harmful to humans. So one must not pluck Tulsi leaves at night in any situation. For this reason, the tulsi is also known as Vrinda, which means electric energy.
• Further, tulsi leaves have a certain quantity of mercury which is harmful to the gums. Therefore, one must swallow Tulsi leaves only when given as prasad. Most importantly, do not chew them.
• The pious wear necklaces made out of small tulsi beads. Wearing a tulsi mala develops a magnetic field around a person. In fact, it also checks dissipation of his static energy.
• The manufacture of a tulsi mala is a cottage industry in largely pilgrim towns of India, especially Mathura and Vrindavan in Uttar Pradesh.

Varieties Of Tulsi Plant

There are two varieties of tulsi:- the Krishna tulsi, the Ocimum sanctum, the Rama, Vana tulsi or the Ocimum gratissimum.

• Black-leaf tulsi is often known as Krishna or Shyama tulsi and has several properties. Rama tulsi or the Karpoora tulsi is commonly used for the aspect of worshipping only.
• Yet another variety of the tulsi has a name as ‘holy basil’ in the English language. This is useful as a flavouring ingredient in recipes.

Another significance of Tulsi plant among Hindus is that people take tulsi leaves and dip them in water.

Then try offer these wet leaves to the dying.

The logic behind this is that they raise the departing soul to heaven.

In Malaysia, it is completely different. People plant tulsi and worship it in the graveyards.

Similar beliefs are prevalent in Israel as well.

Benefits Of Tulsi Plant & Worshipping Rituals

In Sanatan Dharma, Tulsi is worshiped not just as a plant but as a goddess.

It is being said that the Tulsi plant is a symbol of happiness and prosperity.

It increases positive energy around your house.

That is why Tulsi Ji is worshiped in most Hindu families.

But do you know that apart from religious importance, it is also medicinal? It is believed that due to its medicinal properties, Tulsi is used to cure many diseases and illnesses.

In Ayurveda, every part of Tulsi is said to be beneficial from a health point of view.

For thousands of years, Tulsi (Basil) has been used as a healthy response to physical, emotional, and environmental stress.

Modern research has described Tulsi (Basil) as an adaptogenic herb that helps the body fight stress and provides immunity.

Often there are many questions in our mind about the Tulsi plant.

When should we offer it some water or when should we pluck its leaves? What should be done if Basil starts withering? In today’s article, we are going to give you some similar information related to Tulsi Plant.

Tulsi: The Incarnation of Maa Lakshmi

Tulsi is said to be an incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi.

As she is very dear to Lord Krishna, she is also considered as revered.

It is believed that Vrindavan Dham was named Vrindavan because of Vrinda i.e.Tulsi as there are many forests of Tulsi in this area.

Therefore, in Sanatan Dharma, great importance has been given to this goddess who provides devotion to Krishna to the devotees.

Rituals To Worship Tulsi Plant

• After taking bath in the morning, fold your hands in front of the Tulsi plant and offer flowers and fruits, light the Diya, and worship.
• Sit near Tulsi Ji and chant Tulsi Gayatri Mantra 108 times with Tulsi garland, wishing for happiness.
• Gayatri Mantra –

ॐ श्री तुलस्यै विद्महे। विष्णु प्रियायै धीमहि। तन्नो वृंदा प्रचोदयात।। 

oṃ śrī tulasyai vidmahe। viṣṇu priyāyai dhīmahi। tanno vṛṃdā pracodayāta।। 

• Chant the eight names of Tulsi namely Vrinda, Vrindavani, Vishwapujita, Vishwapavani, Pushpasara, Nandini, Tulsi, and Krishnajivani.
• Light a Diya in front of Tulsi in the evening. By doing this practice, there is always an atmosphere of happiness and peace in the house.

Right Way To Offer Water In The Tulsi Plant

It is said that while offering water to the Sun and Tulsi Ji, one must do circumambulation.

According to Padma Purana, Brahma Ji resides in the root of Tulsi Ji, Shri Hari Vishnu in the central part and Lord Shiva resides in Manjari (seed-balls).

Therefore, water should always be given to the Tulsi Ji while going from the root to the leaves.

Should I Keep Shaligram In The Tulsi Plant Or Not?

Shaligram is also a form of Lord Vishnu. According to a story described in ancient times, Tulsi Devi was a very pious woman named Vrinda.

By following her Pativrata Dharma, she punished Lord Vishnu for killing her husband and cursed the Lord to turn into stone.

Due to the curse of Tulsi Ji, Lord Vishnu came in the form of Shaligram and Queen Vrinda started flowing in the form of the Gandaki river and her hair became the Tulsi plant.

Therefore, the Shaligram form of God can be established with the Tulsi plant.

Measures To Prevent The Tulsi Plant From Drying Out

• Always keep the Tulsi plant in the East, North, or North-East direction.
• Never keep Tulsi plant with any thorny plant.
• The Tulsi plant should always be kept slightly above the ground.
• While planting the Tulsi plant, always use 70% soil and 30% sand in it.
• Weeding the soil on a timely basis will prevent water from collecting in the plant.
• Never put too much water in the Tulsi plant, this plant does not require a lot of water.
• When your Tulsi plant will be grown up completely and the Manjari starts sprouting on it, separate it from the plant. If you will not follow this, then the plant will behave like her life is complete and starts drying up.
• Always keep in mind that you should not use your fingernail and index finger while breaking the Manjari.
• To prevent Tulsi from getting weed, sprinkle neem oil on the plant from time to time.
• Tulsi leaves should not be eaten immediately after adding neem oil.
• If you have a lot of Tulsi plants in your house then always keep them in odd numbers.

How Is Tulsi A Protective Shield Against Diseases?

• Tulsi leaves must be kept in the offerings of Lord Krishna and in the offerings of the Satyanarayana. Failure to do so will not make the puja complete.
• Drinking a decoction made by mixing honey, ginger and Basil provides relief in asthma, phlegm, and cold.
• By consuming 11 leaves of Basil with 4 black peppercorns, malaria and typhoid can be cured.
• In case of irregularities in periods, using Basil seeds is beneficial.
• Its consumption increases red blood cells and increases the level of hemoglobin.
• If facing problems such as earache or runny ears, pouring lukewarm juice of Basil leaf in the ear will be beneficial.
• For getting rid of bad breath, using Basil leaves is beneficial to a great extent
• It is very beneficial for acne, by using it regularly the face becomes clean.
• If there is an injury, then applying Basil leaves mixed with alum cures the wound immediately.
• Eating Basil leaves keeps the blood clean. This keeps the skin and hair healthy.

The Sacred Power of Tulsi Maadam: Unveiling the Benefits and Rituals of Worship

A Tulsi Maadam is an integral part of a South Indian home, with houses often having dedicated spaces for the holy basil plant and the Tulsi Maadam in which it thrives.

This Tulsi Maadam is usually erected in the heart of the household in the inner courtyard or the outer compound in a clean space with little foot traffic.

Women of the families dedicate a part of their mornings to worship the Tulsi plant with devotion and chant prayers as they draw kolams, offer fruit and incense, and pray for the family’s well-being. 

The Tulsi Maadam is nothing short of an embodiment of pure devotion intricately woven into our rich tapestry of traditions and beliefs.

As a child, I watched my mother, grandmother, and aunts offer poojas to the Tulsi Maadam with utmost devotion with incense,

water, and florals, which only cemented my belief in its sacred power, which extends into both the physical and mental realms.

The Spiritual Tapestry of Tulsi Maadam : A Glimpse into History

The Tulsi plant, often referred to as “Holy Basil,” has been revered for centuries in India and is regarded as an earthly manifestation of the goddess Vrinda, a symbol of purity and devotion.

It is said that Vrinda was an incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi, who was devoted to Lord Vishnu. Vrinda’s husband, the Asura King Jalandhar,

was off to battle. Vrinda had promised her husband she would continue the Sankalp for his victory until he returned home.

In a few days, King Jalandhar returned, and she left the Sankalp to touch his feet out of respect.

It was then that she found out that her husband was none other than Lord Vishnu in disguise.

Lord Vishnu had vowed to help the Gods destroy the Asura King, as his power came from Vrinda’s prayers and penance, both of which had to be interrupted for the Gods to destroy Jalandhar.

And so destruction followed.

Lord Shiva beheaded the Asura King, and the head fell into Vrinda’s lap from the force of the divine blow. 

Led by grief and shock, Vrinda cursed Lord Vishnu that he would be turned to stone and also be separated from his wife, Goddess Lakshmi.

Both curses came to be in the future when Lord Vishnu turned into a Shaligram and when Lord Rama (Vishnu’s incarnation) was separated from his wife, Maa Sita. Vrinda drowned herself, and Lord

Vishnu, taking pity on her soul, allowed her soul to manifest in a sacred Tulsi plant.

 Vishnu also bestowed blessings upon her that allowed her to be married to the Lord in her next life.

The Tulsi plant and Lord Vishnu’s Shaligram are worshipped and ceremonially married every year, and the day is celebrated as the Tulsi Vivah.

Tulsi Maadam : The Healing Embrace of Tulsi

Beyond its spiritual significance, the sacred Tulsi plant is revered for its holistic healing properties.

In Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, Tulsi is cherished for its numerous benefits.

Tulsi leaves are rich in essential oils, antioxidants, and phytochemicals that bestow it with antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Moreover, this wonderful medicinal plant can be consumed as is by chewing on the leaves, powdered and incorporated into various Ayurvedic remedies, and crushed and steeped in hot water to make tea.

This potent herb offers a natural boost to the immune system, respiratory health, and overall well-being. 

Tulsi Maadam and Rituals that Breathe Life into Devotion

Worshipping the Tulsi Maadam involves a series of rituals that are not just acts of reverence but profound expressions of devotion.

The day begins with the women of the household cleansing the Tulsi Maadam, and watering the sacred plant, often done with reciting mantras and hymns.

As the sun’s rays bathe the landscape in heat and light, water flows into the Tulsi Maadam , down to the roots.

Florals are set in garlands or amidst the delicate stems and branches, and fragrant incense wafts in the air.

The lighting of an oil lamp, or ‘diya,’ signifies the illumination of knowledge and spiritual wisdom.

Tulsi Maadam Vastu Placement

The sacred Tulsi plant is often placed in the front, back, or central courtyards of traditional Indian homes.

However, with the development of smaller spaces without courtyards and significant outdoor areas like flats, apartment buildings, and smaller plots of land, finding ample space to install the Tulsi Maadam has become rather tricky.

Here’s how you can place Tulsi Maadams in your home without having to worry too much about space!

If your home is more spacious and well-lit in the back, ensure that you place it in the South or West direction where the Maadam is raised on a platform that is higher than the house’s flooring level. 

If you wish to place it in front of the house, ensure that the Tulsi Maadam is placed in the North or East direction with the Maadam lower than the house flooring. 

A terracotta red or khaki colour is also a traditional choice for the Tulsi Maadam.

The Tulsi Pooja:

The Tulsi Pooja begins with self-cleansing.

Once done, clean the area around the Tulsi Maadam and remove any dried florals from the previous day.

Draw kolams in white kolam powder and red soil in front of the Maadam. 

Tie a length of red cloth at the base of the stem.

Offer flowers, preferably red ones and water the sacred herb.

You can also make offerings of milk or payasam for pooja.

Light a terracotta or brass and bronze lamps and perform aarti with diyas or incense to complete the Tulsi pooja. 

You can also chant the following mantras when performing pooja to the Tulsi plant:

Tulsi Gayatri

“Om Tulsayei Vidmahe

Vishnu Priyayei Dhimahi

Tanno Vrinda Prachodayat”

Tulsi Mantra

“Yanmule Sarvatirhaani

Yannagre Sarvadevataa

Yanmadhye Sarvavedaascha

Tulasi Taam Namaamyaham”

The Tulsi Maadam is more than just a plant in Indian households; it embodies divine energy which enriches our lives with its spiritual significance,

offers sacred healing to our bodies, minds, and souls, and stands as a testament to the enduring power of tradition.

As we nurture and worship the Tulsi Maadam, we pay homage to ancient beliefs and weave its sacred power into the fabric of our lives,

fostering a harmonious blend of the past and the present.

Looking for bespoke vintage Pooja articles and idols in brass and bronze? Click here to shop now!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of Tulsi maadam?

Beyond its spiritual significance, the sacred Tulsi plant is revered for its holistic healing properties.

In Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine,

Tulsi is cherished for its numerous benefits.

Tulsi leaves are rich in essential oils, antioxidants, and phytochemicals that bestow it with antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Moreover, this wonderful medicinal plant can be consumed as is by chewing on the leaves, powdered and incorporated into various Ayurvedic remedies, and crushed and steeped in hot water to make tea.

This potent herb offers a natural boost to the immune system, respiratory health, and overall well-being. 

Can Tulsi grow without sunlight?

No, Tulsi plants require ample sunlight and regular watering to thrive and grow in healthy manner.

How many days does it take to grow Tulsi plant?

The Tulsi plant will germinate in about 2 weeks after you plant the seeds, and it will grow it’s first set of leaves in about two or three weeks.

in a month’s time, these saplings can be moved to a different pot or planter.

Why Do Hindus Worship Tulsi?

Many people wonder why do Hindus worship Tulsi as it is just a small plant. There are multiple reasons behind this belief.

Tulsi (Holy basil) or Tulasi is the most sacred plant in Hinduism.

The word Tulsi in Sanskrit means “incomparable” or “matchless”.

It has numerous medicinal uses and health benefits.

You would find a Tulsi plant in front of almost every Hindu house.

Hindus celebrate Tulsi Vivah (the marriage of Tulsi) every year in the Kartik month (the eighth month of the Hindu calendar),

where a wedding between a Tulsi plant and a Shaligram stone (a form of Lord Vishnu) takes place.

It is not just a plant for Hindus but is like a goddess.

 

Why do Hindus Worship Tulsi?

1. Because of Lord Vishnu’s boon to Vrinda, she achieved the status of a goddess.

The story of Tulsi is very interesting as well as controversial.

There are at least two versions of this story.

Once upon a time, there was an Asura named Shankhachuda, who was very powerful. Apart from his powers,

he had protection from his wife, Vrinda, who was very virtuous. She was also a great devotee of Lord Vishnu.

Once there was a war between gods and Asuras, but gods were unable to win it because the spiritual power of Vrinda was protecting Shankhachuda.

It was necessary to break her chastity to kill him.

(Per the Shiva Purana, Vrinda was the wife of Jalandhar).

Therefore, Lord Vishnu in the disguise of Shankhachuda approached Vrinda, who was preparing a ritual to marry her husband again so that it would be impossible to kill him.

He told her that he had defeated the gods and won the war.

Vrinda did not recognize Lord Vishnu in the disguise of her husband and married him.

It broke her chastity, and the gods were able to kill Shankhachuda.

(According to some texts, Lord Vishnu slept with her, but she recognized that he is not her husband during the coitus from her experience).

Vrinda’s curse to Lord Vishnu:

After this, Lord Shiva was able to kill Shankhachuda.

Then Lord Vishnu appeared before her in his real form, and Vrinda realized the deceit.

She also came to know that her husband was no more and the gods had killed him.

It infuriated her, and she cursed Lord Vishnu that he would turn into a stone.

He accepted her curse wholeheartedly and told her the real story from the past life of her husband and why he had to kill him.

Afterward, Vrinda repented for cursing her beloved god and apologized.

But as she could not live without her husband, she decided to self-immolate.

Pleased by her devotion, Lord Vishnu gave her a boon that from her ash the plant Tulsi would be born and the plant would get married to Shaligrama (the cursed stone), which is Lord Vishnu himself.

He also told her that he would not accept any offerings without Tulsi leaves.

That is why Hindus celebrate Tulsi Vivah every year and worship the Tulsi plant.

2. Per some Hindu scriptures, Tulsi is an incarnation of the goddess Lakshmi.

Goddess Lakshmi is one of the three major Hindu goddesses.

Hence, an incarnation of her is highly revered and treated like a goddess.

3. A Tulsi plant releases ozone for a few hours a day.

Tulsi plant releases oxygen for twenty hours and ozone for four hours a day, although some people don’t agree with it.

Shyamkant Godbole, an eminent botanist, studied the environmental benefits of Tulsi and found that it indeed releases ozone.

4. The Tulsi plant has many medicinal uses and is called the “Queen of the Herbs”.

“There is mounting evidence that Tulsi can address physical, chemical, metabolic, and psychological stress through a unique combination of pharmacological actions.

Tulsi has been found to protect organs and tissues against chemical stress from industrial pollutants and heavy metals,

and physical stress from prolonged physical exertion, ischemia, physical restraint, and exposure to cold and excessive noise.

Tulsi has also been shown to counter metabolic stress through normalization of blood glucose,

blood pressure, and lipid levels, and psychological stress through positive effects on memory and cognitive function and its anxiolytic and anti-depressant properties.

Tulsi’s broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, which includes activity against a range of human and animal pathogens, suggests it can be used as a hand sanitizer,

mouthwash, and water purifier as well as in animal rearing, wound healing, the preservation of foodstuffs, and herbal raw materials and traveler’s health.

Cultivation of tulsi plants has both spiritual and practical significance that connects the grower to the creative powers of nature,

and organic cultivation offers solutions for food security, rural poverty, hunger, environmental degradation, and climate change.

The use of tulsi in daily rituals is a testament to Ayurvedic wisdom and provides an example of ancient knowledge offering solutions to modern problems.”

Other Uses of Tulsi:

1. Reduces cold, cough and helps with other respiratory diseases.

2. Helps relieve acidity.

3. Insect repellent.

4. Helps reduce fever.

5. Immunity booster.

6. Antibacterial properties.

7. Anti-cancer properties.

8. Helps control blood sugar and blood pressure.

9. Aromatic.

10. Useful in kidney stones and arthritis.

11. Useful in GI disorders.

5. Tulsi plant eliminates Vastu dosha and, to some extent, repels black magic also.

The different parts of Tulsi are the abode of various Hindu gods and goddesses.

Hindus lit a lamp on Tulsi Vrindavan and circumambulate it daily.

The untimely death of the plant is inauspicious.

6. Hindu sages knew the importance of this valuable herb and created a way to protect it even in worse conditions.

Hindu sages were actually scientists to some extent and knew the importance of the Tulsi plant for both health and environmental purposes.

Therefore, it is quite possible that they created some stories around it and made it an integral part of Hinduism.

The status of a goddess protects the plant from unnatural damages.

The meaning of the word Tulsi is self-explanatory.

 

Significance of Tulsi Worship

In most Hindu homes, one can find people worshipping a small, unassuming-looking plant with light purple, small, aromatic flowers.

It is the Tulsi plant which is said to be Lord Vishnu’s favorite plant.

Hindus consider Tulsi to be a very sacred plant. It has great cultural, religious, and medicinal importance in India.

Tulsi plant worship is very common in India.

 

It’s Essential for Poojas

In traditional and orthodox Hindu homes, women worship the plant daily.

They grow the tulsi plant in the tulsi chaura, an altar-like structure in the center of the house. Indians regard it to be one of the most sacred plants.

They also look after it with great care and reverence.
Tulsi leaves form an important element of the Panchamrita in Poojas.

It is the only holy object that is included in the worship.

As the plant supposedly purifies itself, we can also clean and reuse it for another Pooja.

It’s an Offering to God

Tulsi leaves are used to make garlands.

This is the first offering made to Vishnu during the daily alankaram ritual.

Offerings to the Lord are deemed incomplete without these leaves.

The reason is that the vibrations of a tulsi garland are supposedly in harmony with those of the deity.

The plant’s dried stems are used to make rosaries.

Vaishnavites use the tulsi rosary when reciting Vishnu Mantras in order to harmonize with the Lord’s soul and vibrations.

Krishna’s Love for Tulsi

Mythology says that once, Lord Krishna, an avatar of Vishnu, held a Tulabharam.

In this ritual, a person is weighed against items like coins, grain, vegetables, gold, etc.

Krishna sat on one of the scales, and on the other, his wife, Satyabhama’s entire collection of gold jewelry, was placed.
But its weight was less than Krishna’s.

However, a single tulsi leaf which was beside Rukmini, his second queen, tilted the balance.

This shows that to Krishna, the tulsi was even superior to himself.

Tulsi is like the queen of Indian herbs.

It is a symbol of Vishnu’s consort, Goddess Lakshmi.

Tulsi worship can help one lead a righteous and happy family life.

Tulsi Vivah

Every year, on the Ekadashi of Shukla Paksha, Hindus perform a special tulsi Pooja. Or, they can perform it on the 11th bright day in Karthika month.

On one of these days, they perform a ceremonial marriage between the tulsi and Lord Vishnu.

They decorate the plant, growing in an earthen pot, like a bride.
They also decorateVishnu, in the form of a Shaligrama, which is a black fossil found on the river Gandaki’s bed in Nepal.

They keep it in the tulsi pot to symbolize the Vivah or marriage.

The same day, in North India, marks the beginning of the marriage season.

Tulsi’s Curse

As per a legend, Tulsi was the wife of Shankhachuda, a demon who often threatened the gods.

His chaste and loyal wife was the source of his strength.

So, to weaken his strength, Vishnu plays a trick, due to which Tulsi sins.

When she discovered the trick, she cursed Vishnu to turn into a Shaligrama or black stone.
Impressed by her devotion and virtue, Vishnu gave her a boon.

She said that she wanted to continue to live on earth.

Thenceforth, the tradition of Tulsi Vivah started. 

Vishnu also declared that all offerings to him would be incomplete without the tulsi leaf.

Tulsi Plant Benefits

• Tulsi plant can reduce stress, boost stamina and give relief from inflammation. It can also lower cholesterol and remove toxins. It protects one from radiation and prevents gastric ulcers. It lowers fevers, boosts digestion, and provides antioxidants and other nutrients.
• It is good for the heart, blood vessels, lungs, and liver. It can regulate blood pressure and blood sugar.
• The essential oil from Karpoora tulsi, a variety of tulsi, has many medicinal uses.
• Tulsi is a great mosquito repellent.
• Tulsi leaves can absorb ultraviolet radiation. Hence, people keep the leaves on food items when an eclipse occurs.

Other Facts About Tulsi

• Tulsi is very sensitive to strong odors. Women should not touch it during their menstrual cycle or even go near it, as it will wither away.
• It discharges electrical impulses at night. These can harm people.

So, do not pluck Tulsi leaves at night. Vrinda, another name for Tulsi, means ‘electric energy’.

• The leaves contain some mercury which can harm the gums. Swallow Tulsi leaves only when they are given as prasad, and do not chew them.
• Pious people wear necklaces made using small tulsi beads.

This creates a magnetic field around them and stops the dissipation of their static energy.

Tulsi Plant Varieties

There are two kinds of tulsi plants- Krishna tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) and Rama Vana tulsi (Ocimum gratissimum).

 Black-leaf tulsi has many properties and is called Krishna or Shyama tulsi. Rama tulsi or Karpoora tulsi is used only for worship.

• Another type is the ‘holy basil’ which is a flavoring ingredient in cooking.

Hindus dip tulsi leaves in water and offer them to dying people.

This supposedly helps elevate the departing soul to heaven.

           

Why you should worship the Tulsi plant and Tulsi Mala?

1. The Segments of Tulsi plant

All Hindu journey places live in its underlying roots, the Ganga streams inside its underlying foundations, all idols are in its stem and its leaves.

Also, the holiest Hindu texts, the Vedas are found in the upper piece of the heavenly basil’s branches.

2. Center of the family

The Tulsi herb is a focal point of family religious devotion especially among ladies and is also referred to as the “ladies’ god” and “a symbol of wifehood and motherhood”.

It is likewise called “the focal partisan symbol of Hinduism” and Vaishnavites consider it as “the sign of god in the plant kingdom“.

3. Grace of Vishnu

An individual who waters and worships Tulsi almost daily is believed to acquire spiritual integrity and the heavenly grace of Vishnu.

Customarily, the daily worship and care of the plant is the responsibility of the women of the family.

However day-to-day worship is endorsed, Tuesdays and Fridays are considered particularly divine for Tulsi love.

4. Rituals

Rituals include watering the plant, cleaning the region close to the plant with water and cow waste, and making contributions of food, blossoms, incense, Ganges water.

And so forth Rangoli of divinities and holy people attracts toward its foot.

The Tulsi plant is regularly worshipped twice a day: in the morning and in the evening when a light or candle is lit close to the plant.

The right way to Worship Tulsi mala

One of my number one meditation rehearses is mantra utilizing Tulsi Mala beads.

This practice is called Japa in Sanskrit.

Japa practice includes the repetition recitation of one single word, a few words, or long mantras, for example, the lovely Gayatri Mantra.

What Tulsi Mala signifies.?

Tulsi mala beads are a traditional method of remembering count of the number of times your mantra has been recited during Japa.

The word ‘Mala’ signifies ‘Garland’ and is a line of prayer beads.

The full-size Tulsi Mala comprises 108 beads and a Guru bead, or tassel to help us to remember the great teachers in our lives.

The number 108 is a holy number in many cultures, however, especially in the Hindu religion.

The number comes from duplicating the 12 astrological houses by the 9 planets.

Prestigious Vedic mathematicians saw 108 as the quantity of the completeness of presence, connecting the Sun, Moon, and Earth.

The normal distance of the Sun and Moon to Earth is supposed to be multiple times their individual diameters.

Why are tulsi leaves used while offering naivedya ?

Tulsi is a sacred plant.

It has been mentioned in Skandapuran that some of the drops of nectar fell on the earth during the process of Samudramanthan (churning of ocean). 

Tulsi was formed out of them. It was handed over to Shri Vishnu by Shri Bramha. 

Tulsi is liked by Shri Vishnu and hence it is specially offered to Shri Vishnu.

While citing the importance of Tulsi it has been mentioned in Padmapuran that offering flowers made of gold, stones and pearls do not have even one sixteenth of the importance of Tulsi ! Sins of even many eras are destroyed by sight, touch, meditation, obeisance, planting and use of Tulsi. 

Tulsi leaves used while offering naivedya to God.

All deities reside in the plant of Tulsi from its roots to the tip.

It constantly emits the principles of deities and makes the surrounding environment sacred.

That is why a house with a tulasivrundavan is considered sacred.

• The unmanifest and subtle most Vishnu principle is absorbed through the stem of Tulsi leaf and is then converted into Krushna principle and goes on flowing through the stem.
• Chaitanya is activated at the base of the Tulsi leaf and is projected into atmosphere in the form of circles. This chaitanya simultaneously flows through the vessels of Tulsi leaf.
• The particles of Shakti (divine energy) are also present in the leaves of Tulsi.
• The particles of chaitanya and Krushna principle are transmitted into atmosphere through the inflorescence.

Tulsi plant – Symbol of vairagya (Detachment)

A tulsi plant symbolises detachment.

Once when performing the ritual of tula (Weighing with food grain, gems etc.)

of Shrikrushna, despite placing diamonds, precious stones, gold etc.

in one pan, the other pan with Shrikrushna seated on it just did not move.

Finally, only after a tulsi leaf was placed on all the wealth by Rukmini did the weighing scale balance.

Through this incident, Shrikrushna taught that He could be won over only with detachment and not with wealth.

Hence, phrases like ‘Placing tulsi leaves on the house’ depicts sacrificing the house.

Now our readers must have realized the spiritual benefit of offering Tulsi leaves to a deity during puja ritual.

The effect of plucking such sacred Tulsi leaves has been described thus in Skandapuran, तुलसीं ये विचिन्‍वन्‍ति धन्‍यास्‍ते करपल्‍लवा: ।- Tulsi ye vichinvanti dhanyaste karapallavaaha’ means blessed are those hands who pluck tulsi leaves for the puja.

Thus by knowing the importance of gathering the tulsi leaves for puja our faith in tulsi must have been enhanced to a great extent.

1. Why are the leaves of the Tulsi always pure ?

The Holy basil originally has 50% Vishnu Principle.

When they it is used in the ritualistic worship the Divine Principle in them increases by 20%.

The raja-tama in the environment affects every object.

The enhanced 20% Divine Principle is used in combating the raja-tama in the atmosphere.

The grossly apparent effect of this is that the Holy basil leaves appear dried up or singed.

Nonetheless they continue emitting the Divine Principle originally present in them.

Hence, the Holy basil leaves are always pure.

2. Why are tulsi leaves used while offering naivedya to a deity ?

We often see that while offering naivedya (food offering) to a deity it is offered with the help of two leaves of tulsi. One of them is kept on the naivedya while other is offered to the deity.

Let us now understand as to why tulsi leaves are used while offering naivedya to God

.

Tulsi has the greater capacity to absorb and emit sattvik and Krushnatattva frequencies present in the universe.

Therefore use of tulsi while offering naivedya imparts two benefits.

• The tulsi leaf used while offering naivedya absorbs the subtle frequencies emitted from the food. When this tulsi leaf is offered to the deity, the deity principle rapidly absorbs the frequencies present in the leaf.
• There is subtle covering of raja-tama present in the atmosphere around the food to be offered to the deity as naivedya. When a tulsi leaf is kept on the food, the sattvik frequencies emitted from the tulsi leaf reduces this covering. Besides the atmosphere around the plate or banana leaf meant for serving the naivedya gets purified.

This retains the sattvikta of naivedya for a long period.

Thus the tulsi leaf is used for offering naivedya for receiving the grace of the deity by pleasing Him/Her.

Therefore there is a rich tradition of offering prayerful obeisance to tulsi plant loved by Shri Vishnu every morning and evening as mark of gratitude because it is a destroyer of negative energies and a purifier of the atmosphere.

3. Precautions to be taken while gathering Tulsi leaves

• Do not pluck the leaves singly, pluck them in pairs
• Pluck the tip of tulsi consisting of leaves without shaking the plant.
• When a manjiri (inflorescence ) is plucked then it should contain leaves.

If we pluck the tulsi leaves while simultaneously chanting the name of our favourite deity and with utmost respect and with proper method,

the spiritual benefit received through the puja ritual multiplies a million times.

4. Why are women prohibited from gathering tulsi leaves ?

As specified in Dharma texts, women have a high proportion of raja component when compared to men.

There is generation of heat energy in the dormant and serene sattvik frequencies present in the tulsi plant by the touch of women which leads to decrease in its sattvikta (sattva quality).

Hence they are prohibited from gathering or plucking the tulsi leaves.

What Makes Tulsi sacred?

The idea of a plant’s sacredness stems from the traditional understanding of our connection to the entirety of the universe,

including the herbs that sustain and nurture life.

Indian conservationist Bharti Chhibber explains, “Religion protects and nurtures nature.

If we take a look at Hinduism, we worship the sun, wind, land, trees, plants, and water, which is the very base of human survival.”

Since the earliest times, healers have known that we human beings are inseparable from all else that arises out of Mother Earth.

Our sacred relationship with plants, and the holy status conferred upon them,

speaks to a greater spiritual understanding of who we are as part and parcel of the natural world — a lesson that has been thankfully rekindled by regenerative farmers, environmentalists, traditional healers, ethnobotanists, and others.

Taking its place upon the throne of the most revered plants in Indian culture is Tulsi, known as Queen of the Herbs.

Inviting a Goddess Into the Home

Tulsi is known to Hindus as the earthly manifestation of Lakshmi, the esteemed goddess of wealth and good fortune,

who arose from the depths of the oceans after the gods churned them to rid the world of demons.

Devotees of Hinduism believe that on full moon nights Lakshmi visits each home and blesses the inhabitants with wealth and prosperity.

The goddess is the object of worship during several holidays, including Diwali, the festival of lights celebrated by Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs.

Goddess Lakshmi is most often depicted holding a lotus flower, a symbol of birth, resurrection, good fortune, and enlightenment. 

Like Lakshmi, Tulsi brings blessings into the home, which is why the plant is displayed prominently in front of doors, atria,

and foyers across the Indian continent — and wherever Hindus have settled.

Buildings and shrines displaying Tulsi plants are sometimes considered sites of pilgrimage,

and the plants are often grown in Vrindavans — raised cuboid stone or brick structures, commonly featured in the middle of a courtyard or in front of a residence or temple.

Tulsi’s Healing Potential

The sacred Tulsi plant is regarded as the threshold between heaven and earth.

A traditional prayer suggests that the creator-god Brahma dwells in its branches and that Hindu pilgrimage sites reside in, and the river Ganges flows through, its roots.

The prayer recognizes that all deities may be found in Tulsi’s stem and leaves; and that the Hindu scriptures — the Vedas — are nestled in its upper branches.

Like Lakshmi, Tulsi, is considered a female deity that is well-rooted as protector and nurturer of the home and its occupants.

Tulsi bestows an array of benefits onto its worshippers,

but has also found a prominent place among the works of scientific researchers who have identified many of the plant’s most celebrated nutrients,

ranging from antioxidants to polyphenols.

Tulsi is also regarded in Ayurveda as an “elixir of life” and is believed to promote longevity.

Scientists, herbalists, and nutritionists have discovered that this botanical is potent in vitamin C and A, minerals that include calcium,

zinc and iron, and chlorophyll — along with many other phytonutrients.

One of Tulsi’s most prominent roles is as a well-known adaptogen, balancing various bodily processes that would otherwise lead to the myriad negative effects of stress.

Marc Maurice Cohen, School of Health Sciences, RMIT University, Australia, reported that Tulsi also protects organs and tissues against chemical stress from industrial pollutants and heavy metals,

as well as the effects of physical stress from prolonged physical exertion,

ischemia (restriction of oxygen),

physical restraint, and exposure to cold and excessive noise.

Cohen notes that Tulsi has also been shown to counter metabolic stress by balancing blood sugar, blood pressure, and lipid levels. 

Tulsi also helps people cope with psychological stress and exerts positive effects on memory and cognitive function.

It has also been used as a traditional plant that eases depression and anxiety.

While traditional Ayurvedic healers consider Tulsi to be one of the best plants to balance the mind, body,

and spirit, modern researchers have focused on its antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, anti-inflammatory,

neuro-protective, and cardio-protective properties, finding it an overwhelmingly impressive natural treatment for an array of ailments. 

Where Tradition Meets Science

Tulsi was mentioned by the ancient Indian healer Charaka in the Ayurvedic text Charaka Samhita as one of Ayurveda’s most celebrated healing plants, capable of addressing an array of ailments.

Celebrated “medicine hunter” Chris Kilham, who has conducted medicinal plant research in more than 45 countries, explains that while Tulsi’s history is steeped in religion and mythology,

it has also been used in several ancient systems of medicine,

including Ayurveda, Greek, Roman, and Siddha for thousands of years.

When healers, Hindus, and botanists refer to Tulsi as sacred or holy,

it is both for the plant’s elevated status as a goddess,

as well as for its strong connection with the human organism that allows it to exhibit time-tested — and now scientifically validated — healing benefits.

Tulsi in Hinduism and Tulsi Vivah

Tulsi, the holy basil is a fragrant Indian herb that is highly revered in Hindu culture.

Tulsi is worshipped as an incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi,

the divine consort of Lord Vishnu.

Its leaves are essential in the worship of Lord Vishnu and all his avatars, including Ram, Krishna and even Hanuman and Balaram.

Tulsi plant occupies the pride of place in most Indian households in the center of the courtyard or facing the house.

It is also grown for medicinal purposes and for extracting tulsi oil.

Tulsi Benefits

In Hindu culture, the benefits of Tulsi plant are numerous.

In addition to being a valuable medicinal herb, Tulsi plant is worshipped across India for its spiritual vibrations.

According to the Padma Puran, a person who merely sees the Tulsi plant thriving in a home or garden is rid of all bad karma, including the sin of killing a Brahmin.

The Puranas further state that Lord Krishna is happy to abide in a home where Tulsi Devi is present.

A home where Tulsi Devi is worshipped never falls on bad times, but becomes pure like a holy place.

The mere fragrance of the tulsi plant is supposed to purify the surroundings.

Tulsi is commonly consumed in Indian households in many forms.

It is brewed in herbal tea, consumed as a dry powder, ground into paste and even mixed with ghee.

Tulsi as a Medicine

Apart from being a common kitchen herb, the Tulsi plant has several benefits in Ayurveda, where hundreds of medicinal concoctions are made using Tulsi leaf and Tulsi plant extracts.

Essential oil from Karpoora tulsi is used for medicinal purposes and in making herbal cosmetics.

Tulsi extract is used in Ayurveda for a variety of ailments ranging from flu, fever, and cough and cold to digestive disorders.

It is also useful in treating skin allergies, sore throat, tooth aches and eye infections.

The dried leaves of tulsi are mixed with stored grains to repel insects.

In several parts of the country, Tulsi leaves are used as a mosquito repellent.

Legends of Tulsi in Hinduism

There are many stories about Tulsi in Hindu tradition.

Tulsi was a Gopi who was besotted with Lord Krishna. When Krishna’s consort Radha came to know of this, she cursed the Gopi.

In another story, Krishna was once being weighed in gold.

But all of Satyabhama’s (one of Krishna’s wives) gold could not outweigh Him.

Then Rukmani, another consort of Krishna laid a single Tulsi on the gold, thus managing to tilt the scales.

This shows the spiritual importance of the Tulsi leaves.

According to Puranic texts, Tulsi is an incarnation of Vrinda, the wife of demon Jalandhar and the most ardent devotee of Lord Vishnu.

Vrinda was reborn as Tulsi after Lord Shiva slayed her husband, the demon Jalandhar, in a battle. Since Vrinda was a Vishnu devotee,

Lord Shiva gave her a boon that she would be reborn as Tulsi, one of the greatest medicinal plants in the world.

Lord Vishnu in turn, promised her that no prayer to Him would be complete without Tulsi leaves.

In another story, Tulsi was a pious woman who wanted to marry Lord Vishnu.

However, Lakshmi, the Lord’s consort became jealous and banished Tulsi to become a plant in earth.

But Vishnu granted her a boon that she would grace him when he appears as Shaligram in temples and places of worship.

The Puranas state that a person who worships Tulsi with her eight names – Vrinda, Vrindavani, Viswapavani, Visvapujita,

Tulasi, Puspasara, Nandini, and Krsna Jivani – enjoys the merits equivalent to performing an Asvamedha (horse) sacrifice.

Tulsi Puja

Tulsi is the eternal companion of Lord Vishnu and there are many benefits of doing Tulsi Puja.

According to Padma Purana, Tulsi plant is the very essence of all worship and devotional activities.

Every part of Tulsi, including the leaves, roots, bark, branches and flowers are steeped in spirituality.

It is believed that Lord Krishna does not accept flowers, food, or sandalwood paste unless an offering of Tulsi leaves is made to him.

A person who worships Lord Krishna daily with Tulsi leaves attains the results of all austerities, charity and sacrifice.

Such a person has realised the essence of the scriptures and has no duties left.

Such a worshipper will also release all his ancestors from the cycle of birth and death.

Tulsi was born on the full moon day in the month of Kartik and hence, this day and month is significant for her worship.

Offering Lord Vishnu Tulsi leaves every day during Kartik will grant immense blessings to the worshipper.

People light diyas (earthern lamps) every evening during Kartik and worship the Tulsi plant with incense, kumkum and sandal paste.

The tradition is especially observed by Vaishnav households this month.

People chant hymns of Tulsi and meditate on her.

What is Tulsi Vivah?

Tulsi marriage is an essential part of Tulsi worship.

On Ekadashi (the eleventh day) of the waxing moon in the month of Kartik, worshippers perform Tulsi vivah, the ceremonial marriage of Tulsi with Krishna.

The Tulsi Vivah puja vidhi is actually the recreation of a traditional Hindu wedding ceremony conducted in the house or a temple.

Tulsi marriage ceremony begins in the evening and worshippers performing this puja observe a fast until then.

This is because it is believed that the soul of Vrinda lives in Tulsi plant at night and leaves in the morning.

A wedding mandap is installed in the courtyard where the Tulsi plant resides.

The bride Tulsi is bathed and dressed in a red sari and decked with jewellery. Sometimes, a paper human face may be put on Tulsi to give her a human touch.

The groom is usually an image or idol of Vishnu or Krishna or even a Shaligram stone, bathed and wrapped in a dhoti.

For the ceremony, the bride and groom are decked with flowers and garlands before being linked with a sacred cotton thread.

Mantras of the traditional Hindu wedding ceremony are recited and rice and kumkum is sprinkled on the couple.

Most of the Tulsi Vivah puja vidhi is performed by women worshippers.

The Tulsi bride is then offered gifts of sari, jewellery, sweets and even a mangal-sutra.

The marriage ceremony is followed by a traditional wedding feast.

The significance of Tulsi Vivah is that it marks the beginning of the annual marriage season in India.

Tulsi Mala Benefits

In Hindu tradition, Tulsi Mala beads are the favourite of Lord Krishna.

In Vishnu Purana, the Lord says that anyone who wears Tulsi beads around their neck will attain Him, even though the person is of bad character.

Vaishnavas wear the mala around their neck after first offering to Lord Vishnu.

The Skanda Purana states that the wearer of Tulsi beads is among the most favoured devotees of the Lord.

No matter how much bad karma a person has accrued, if he

wears tulsi beads around his neck with devotion, he will manage to please the Lord.

Such a person need not practice any other rituals for atonement and is freed of his past sins.

In modern times, the wearer of tulsi mala can expect to attain peace of mind and reduce stress in addition to purifying their body.

As per Ayurveda guidelines, Tulsi mala is beneficial for healing throat disease.

Procedure for Wearing Tulsi Mala

Tulsi mala beads come in many varieties, the essential ones being black tulsi beads and white tulsi beads.

You may use whichever you like but ensure that you buy original tulsi mala from a reliable source.

After presenting the mala at the feet of Shri Krishna, you must purify it with pancha-gavya.

Once you have done this, recite the Gayatri mantra eight times to charge the mala.

Worship the mala with incense and chant the following Sadyojata-mantra:

Om sadyojatah prapadyami sadyojataya vai namo namah Bhave tave nadi bhave bhajeswamam bhavod-bhavaya namah

Pray to the Tulsi mala, saying: O Tulsi mala, you are loved by the Vaishnavas .

I wear you around my neck; make me dear to Sri Krishna.

Types of Tulsi:

There are three different types of tulsi or holy basil namely.

1. Rama Tulsi:

Rama Tulsi is also called green leaf tulsi and this is a different type of tulsi breed that has light purple flowers and has a clove-like scent to it.

It consists of eugenol which is usually found in cloves and has a mellow flavour.

2. Krishna Tulsi:

This type of Tulsi is also called purple leaf tulsi and has a clove-like aroma.

It tastes like pepper in your mouth.

This type of tulsi helps cure infections such as throat infections, respiratory problems, earaches and skin diseases.

The oil from Krishna Tulsi is used as ear drops.

It is also used to cure malaria, indigestion, insomnia and cholera.

3. Vana Tulsi:

Vana Tulsi is a native to India, Sri Lanka, and Northeastern parts of Africa.

This type of tulsi is usually grown for medicinal purposes and it is imbibed into Indian religious beliefs.

This type must be protected from freezing and will grow in conditions that have full sun and dry areas.

It has light green leaves that are accompanied by a lemony aroma and flavour.

Vana Tulsi leaves increases immunity and this is usually used for preparing tea. When consumed in the form of tea,

it provides health benefits such as increased physical and mental endurance and adds more oxygen and nutrients to your bloodstream.

Where to Get Tulsi Supplement?

Tulsi, the queen of herbs can be bought from a market near you, but again most of it may not be 100% organic.

This is because farmers grow tulsi on soil that may have pre-existing chemicals in it.

So, now that tulsi is grown on such chemical soil, is it organic or herbal.

This herb is said to produce benefits and no side effects.

But if it is grown on soil that’s containing chemicals, what guarantee is there that you won’t develop any side effects.

Our air is filled with a lot of toxins and this can cause cold, cough and fever.

The answer to this is Tulsi.

We at Medlife have created a 100% herbal tulsi in the form of a tablet that can bid goodbye to your common cold, cough and fever.

Benefits of Tulsi Tablet:

Tulsi tablet consists of Tulsi extract and Tulsi powder taken from the Tulsi leaf that helps in treating the common cold, allergic rhinitis, cough and many other respiratory tract diseases.

Tulsi also helps in treating cold-related problems such as sneezing and running nose. 

Medlife has taken this holy herb and turned it into a pill that can solve all of these problems.

Here are some benefits of Tulsi Tablet that be helpful for you.

• Tulsi tablet can treat the common cold.
• Tulsi tablet helps soothe your throat and cleans your respiratory tract.
• Protects you from respiratory tract infections.
• Helps in managing stress.

How to Consume Tulsi Tablet?

Tulsi tablet can be taken two times a day but they must be prescribed by a physician. Say no to side effects by taking the Tulsi tablet.

Why worry when you can get a 100% organic herb in the form of a pill.

This saves you the time of going to the market and buying the herb and boiling it in water and consuming it.

All of this has been compressed in the form of a pill that can battle your cold, cough and other respiratory-related infections.

Well, if you are suffering from a bad cold or a cough, then the Tulsi tablet can work well for you.

You can confidently pop the pill as there are 0% side effects from it.

Currently, most people all over the world are understanding the working ways of this wonder herb and its effects on people.

This is challenging western medicine as it has zero side effects to its use.

So, live healthily and bid goodbye to that horrible cold or a cough that you’re struggling with.

18 TYPES OF BASIL (TULSI)

Basil is one of the most revered and consumed herbs, it is a perennial, aromatic, culinary,

herbaceous bush type plant which has approx 60 species identified and categorized under Ocimum genus in plant family lamiaceae.

It is good source of vitamin A,

Vitamin C,

Calcium,

Zinc, Iron,

Chlorophyll and it posses anti bacterial,

insecticidal properties,

its leaves have capabilities to purify contaminated water.

Scientific studies present evidences for its anti-inflammatory,

antioxidant,

analgesic (pain-reducer),

antipyretic (fever-reducer),

hepatoprotective (liver-protector)

cancer-fighter,

diabetes-preventer,

blood vessel-protector,

destresser, immune-booster etc properties.

In different parts of the world, several types of basil are cultivated,

some of the widely used varieties can be categorized in two groups holy basil (ocimum sanctum) and mediterranean basil (ocimum basilicum).

A. HOLY BASIL

It is known as Tulsi and is the most revered houseplant, in India it is associated with ayurveda and hindu religion as goddess of wealth, health and prosperity.

The plants have strong medicinal properties compared to second group species.

There are several varieties popular based on the regional religious beliefs which are known by a several vernacular and common names such as in Sanskrit it is named as Rama Tulsi and Krishna Tulsi,

in Malayalam it is called Trittavu, in Marathi as Tulshi, Tulasi in Tamil, Thulsi in Telugu and Holy Basil in English.

Not to be confused with Ocimum Tenuiflorum, it is a synonym for Ocimum Sanctum.

There 4 species popular of Holy basil:

1. Rama tulsi (ocimum sanctum)
2. Krishna tulsi (ocimum tenuiflorum)
3. Amrita tulsi (ocimum tenuiflorum)
4. Vana tulsi (ocimum gratissum)

B. MEDITERRANEAN BASIL

It is known as Sweet basil and is the most popular variety of basil which is found all over the world including Asia, Eurpe, America and Africa.

It is most consumed herb worldwide and known by several common names such as king of herbs, royal herb, great basil and Saint-Joseph’s-wort etc,

it is used in culinary preparations and used in several types of popular cuisines like Italian, Thai etc.

5. Sweet basil (ocimum basilicum)
6. Thai basil (ocimum thyrsiflora)
7. Purple basil (ocimum basilicum)
8. Lemon basil (ocimum citriodorum)
9. Vietnamese basil (ocimum cinnamon)
10. American basil (ocimum americanum)
11. African blue basil (ocimum kilimandscharicum)
12. Italian genovese basil (ocimum basilicum)
13. Lettuce basil
14. Green ruffles basil
15. Cardinal basil
16. Greek basil
17. Spicy globe basil
18. Summer long basil

INTRODUCTION OF SPECIES:

1. RAMA TULSI (OCIMUM SANCTUM)

The plant has pure green leaves and better tolerance to winters, sun light, plant requires more watering and fertilization than the other varieties.

The Queen of herbs is one of the most worshiped aromatic herbs that is found at almost every house in India.

Location – Outdoors
Light – Full Sun
Watering – Daily, except winters
Temperature – Loves range 15 to 40 degree celsius
Common names – Ram Tulsi
Botanical name – Ocimum Sanctum,

2. KRISHNA TULSI (OCIMUM TENUIFLORUM)

The plant has purple fringed leaves and purple stems with pungent and strong test of leaves, it has more medicinal properties than the other species. Below are its growing habits:

Location – Outdoors
Light – Full Sun
Watering – Daily, except winters
Temperature – Loves range 20 to 45 degree celsius
Common names – Krishna Tulsi
Botanical name – Ocimum tenuiflorum, 

3. AMRITA TULSI (OCIMUM TENUIFLORUM)

The plant is less commonly grown perennial, aromatic and sacred species of holy basil in India. Below are its growing habits:

Location – Outdoors
Light – Full Sun
Watering – Daily, except winters
Temperature – Loves range 15 to 40 degree celsius
Common names – Amrita Tulsi
Botanical name – Ocimum tenuiflorum,

4. VANA TULSI (OCIMUM GRATISSUM)

It is woody type perennial, aromatic and sacred species of holy basil in India. Below are its growing habits:

Location – Outdoors
Light – Full Sun
Watering – Daily, except winters
Temperature – Loves range 15 to 40 degree celsius
Common names – Vana Tulsi
Botanical name

5. SWEET BASIL (OCIMUM BASILICUM)

It is most commonly grown perennial, aromatic and culinary type species of basil, the plant has bigger green color leaves and stems. Below are its growing habits:

Location – Outdoors
Light – Full Sun
Watering – Daily, except winters
Temperature – Loves range 10 to 35 degree celsius
Common names – Basil
Botanical name – Ocimum basilicum,

6. THAI BASIL (OCIMUM THYRSIFLORA)

It is perennial, aromatic and culinary type species of basil, the plant has green color pointed leaves, reddish purple color stem and dark purple color flowers.

Below are its growing habits:

Location – Outdoors
Light – Full Sun
Watering – Daily, except winters
Temperature – Loves range 10 to 35 degree celsius
Common names – Thai Basil
Botanical name – Ocimum thyrsiflora,

7. PURPLE BASIL (OCIMUM BASILICUM)

It is commonly grown perennial, aromatic and culinary type species of basil, the plant has bigger purple color leaves and stems.

Below are its growing habits:

Location – Outdoors
Light – Full Sun
Watering – Daily, except winters
Temperature – Loves range 10 to 35 degree celsius
Common names – Purple Basil
Botanical name – Ocimum basilicum, –

8. LEMON BASIL (OCIMUM CITRIODORUM)

The plant is perennial, aromatic and culinary type species of basil, the plant has green color leaves and white color flowers.

It has strong lemon scent and all parts of the flower, leaves and stems are edible.

It is known by several common names such as Lemon basil, hoary basil,

Thai lemon basil, or Lao basil etc it is a hybrid between sweet basil and american basil.

Below are its growing habits:

Location – Outdoors
Light – Full Sun
Watering – Daily, except winters
Temperature – Loves range 10 to 35 degree celsius
Common names – Lemon Basil
Botanical name – Ocimum citriodorum, 

9. VIETNAMESE BASIL (OCIMUM CINNAMON)

It is perennial, aromatic and culinary type species of basil, the plant has green color leaves, reddish purple color stem and pink color flowers. Below are its growing habits:

Location – Outdoors
Light – Full Sun
Watering – Daily, except winters
Temperature – Loves range 10 to 35 degree celsius
Common names – Vietnamese Basil
Botanical name – Ocimum cinnamon, 

10. AMERICAN BASIL (OCIMUM AMERICANUM)

It is perennial, aromatic and culinary type species of basil, the plant is known for its rich color, sweet flavor,

cleanliness and uniformity of particle size, it is considered to be of very high quality which has green color pointed leaves, purple color stem and purple color flowers.

Below are its growing habits:

Location – Outdoors
Light – Full Sun
Watering – Daily, except winters
Temperature – Loves range 10 to 35 degree celsius
Common names – Americal Basil
Botanical name – Ocimum americanum, 

11. AFRICAN BLUE BASIL (OCIMUM KILIMANDSCHARICUM)

It is perennial, aromatic and culinary type species of basil, the plant has green color leaves and purple color flowers.

It has strong camphor scent and all parts of the flower, leaves and stems are edible. Below are its growing habits:

Location – Outdoors
Light – Full Sun
Watering – Daily, except winters
Temperature – Loves range 10 to 35 degree celsius
Common names – Blue Basil, Kapur Tulsi
Botanical name – Ocimum kilimandscharicum,

12. ITALIAN GENOVESE BASIL (OCIMUM BASILICUM)

It is classic Italian species with large dark green leaves,

it is most common grown perennial, aromatic and culinary type species of basil,

 the plant has bigger green color leaves and stems.

Below are its growing habits:

Location – Outdoors
Light – Full Sun
Watering – Daily, except winters
Temperature – Loves range 10 to 35 degree celsius
Common names – Italian Basil
Botanical name – Ocimum basilicum, 

18 TYPES OF BASIL (TULSI)

Buy Original Tulsi Mala from Vrindavan Mathura India

In different parts of the world, several types of basil are cultivated,

some of the widely used varieties can be categorized in two groups – holy basil (ocimum sanctum) and mediterranean basil (ocimum basilicum).

A. HOLY BASIL

It is known as Tulsi and is the most revered houseplant,

in India it is associated with ayurveda and hindu religion as goddess of wealth, health and prosperity.

The plants have strong medicinal properties compared to second group species.

There are several varieties popular based on the regional religious beliefs which are known by a several vernacular and

common names such as in Sanskrit it is named as Rama Tulsi and Krishna Tulsi,

in Malayalam it is called Trittavu, in Marathi as Tulshi, Tulasi in Tamil,

Thulsi in Telugu and Holy Basil in English.

Not to be confused with Ocimum Tenuiflorum,

it is a synonym for Ocimum Sanctum. There 4 species popular of Holy basil:

1. Rama tulsi (ocimum sanctum)
2. Krishna tulsi (ocimum tenuiflorum)
3. Amrita tulsi (ocimum tenuiflorum)
4. Vana tulsi (ocimum gratissum)

B. MEDITERRANEAN BASIL

It is known as Sweet basil and is the most popular variety of basil which is found all over the world including Asia, Eurpe, America and Africa.

It is most consumed herb world wide and known by several common names such as king of herbs, royal herb, great basil and Saint-Joseph’s-wort etc,

it is used in culinary preparations and used in several types of popular cuisines like Italian,

Thai etc.

5. Sweet basil (ocimum basilicum)
6. Thai basil (ocimum thyrsiflora)
7. Purple basil (ocimum basilicum)
8. Lemon basil (ocimum citriodorum)
9. Vietnamese basil (ocimum cinnamon)
10. American basil (ocimum americanum)
11. African blue basil (ocimum kilimandscharicum)
12. Italian genovese basil (ocimum basilicum)
13. Lettuce basil
14. Green ruffles basil
15. Cardinal basil
16. Greek basil
17. Spicy globe basil
18. Summer long basil

INTRODUCTION OF SPECIES:

1. RAMA TULSI (OCIMUM SANCTUM)

The plant has pure green leaves and better tolerance to winters, sun light, plant requires more watering and fertilization than the other varieties.

The Queen of herbs is one of the most worshiped aromatic herbs that is found at almost every house in India.

Location – Outdoors
Light – Full Sun
Watering – Daily, except winters
Temperature – Loves range 15 to 40 degree celsius
Common names – Ram Tulsi

2. KRISHNA TULSI (OCIMUM TENUIFLORUM)

The plant has purple fringed leaves and purple stems with pungent and strong test of leaves, it has more medicinal properties than the other species.

Below are its growing habits:

Location – Outdoors
Light – Full Sun
Watering – Daily, except winters
Temperature – Loves range 20 to 45 degree celsius
Common names – Krishna Tulsi

3. AMRITA TULSI (OCIMUM TENUIFLORUM)

The plant is less commonly grown perennial, aromatic and sacred species of holy basil in India.

Below are its growing habits:

Location – Outdoors
Light – Full Sun
Watering – Daily, except winters
Temperature – Loves range 15 to 40 degree celsius
Common names – Amrita Tulsi

4. VANA TULSI (OCIMUM GRATISSUM)

It is woody type perennial, aromatic and sacred species of holy basil in India.

Below are its growing habits:

Location – Outdoors
Light – Full Sun
Watering – Daily, except winters
Temperature – Loves range 15 to 40 degree celsius
Common names – Vana Tulsi

5. SWEET BASIL (OCIMUM BASILICUM)

It is most commonly grown perennial, aromatic and culinary type species of basil, the plant has bigger green color leaves and stems.

Below are its growing habits:

Location – Outdoors
Light – Full Sun
Watering – Daily, except winters
Temperature – Loves range 10 to 35 degree celsius
Common names – Basil

6. THAI BASIL (OCIMUM THYRSIFLORA)

It is perennial, aromatic and culinary type species of basil, the plant has green color pointed leaves, reddish purple color stem and dark purple color flowers.

Below are its growing habits:

Location – Outdoors
Light – Full Sun
Watering – Daily, except winters
Temperature – Loves range 10 to 35 degree celsius
Common names – Thai Basil

7. PURPLE BASIL (OCIMUM BASILICUM)

It is commonly grown perennial, aromatic and culinary type species of basil, the plant has bigger purple color leaves and stems.

Below are its growing habits:

Location – Outdoors
Light – Full Sun
Watering – Daily, except winters
Temperature – Loves range 10 to 35 degree celsius
Common names – Purple Basil

8. LEMON BASIL (OCIMUM CITRIODORUM)

The plant is perennial, aromatic and culinary type species of basil, the plant has green color leaves and white color flowers.

It has strong lemon scent and all parts of the flower, leaves and stems are edible.

It is known by several common names such as Lemon basil, hoary basil, Thai lemon basil, or Lao basil etc it is a hybrid between sweet basil and american basil.

Below are its growing habits:

Location – Outdoors
Light – Full Sun
Watering – Daily, except winters
Temperature – Loves range 10 to 35 degree celsius
Common names – Lemon Basil

9. VIETNAMESE BASIL (OCIMUM CINNAMON)

It is perennial, aromatic and culinary type species of basil, the plant has green color leaves, reddish purple color stem and pink color flowers.

Below are its growing habits:

Location – Outdoors
Light – Full Sun
Watering – Daily, except winters
Temperature – Loves range 10 to 35 degree celsius
Common names – Vietnamese Basil

10. AMERICAN BASIL (OCIMUM AMERICANUM)

It is perennial, aromatic and culinary type species of basil, the plant is known for its rich color, sweet flavor, cleanliness and uniformity of particle size,

it is considered to be of very high quality which has green color pointed leaves, purple color stem and purple color flowers.

Below are its growing habits:

Location – Outdoors
Light – Full Sun
Watering – Daily, except winters
Temperature – Loves range 10 to 35 degree celsius
Common names – Americal Basil

11. AFRICAN BLUE BASIL (OCIMUM KILIMANDSCHARICUM)

It is perennial, aromatic and culinary type species of basil, the plant has green color leaves and purple color flowers.

It has strong camphor scent and all parts of the flower, leaves and stems are edible.

Below are its growing habits:

Location – Outdoors
Light – Full Sun
Watering – Daily, except winters
Temperature – Loves range 10 to 35 degree celsius
Common names – Blue Basil, Kapur Tulsi

12. ITALIAN GENOVESE BASIL (OCIMUM BASILICUM)

It is classic Italian species with large dark green leaves, it is most common grown perennial, aromatic and culinary type species of basil, the plant has bigger green color leaves and stems.

Below are its growing habits:

Location – Outdoors
Light – Full Sun
Watering – Daily, except winters
Temperature – Loves range 10 to 35 degree celsius
Common names – Italian Basil

Types & Health Benefits of Tulsi (Holy Basil)

Tulsi is one of the ancient herbs that is widely used in Ayurvedic medicine.

Tulsi is also known as holy basil, it is closely related to the culinary basil.

The native of this herbal plant is Southern Asia and India.

Due to the medicinal property of this plant, it is defined as the “Queen of the Herbs”.

This plant is considered as the adaptogenic herb, it has the rich antioxidant property that helps to adapt the body to stress and helps to boost energy. 

Due to the medicinal property of the tulsi, it is one of the best herbs for high blood pressure and diabetes.

The linoleic acid of the tulsi is more essential to treat skin problems.

The tulsi leaves have a fixed oil and are volatile which helps to fight against infections, allergies, and pathogens.

The Tulsi or Holy Basil is also considered the “Goddess of Devotion” in Hinduism.

Ayurvedic Properties

❋ Taste (Rasa) : Bitter (Tikta) and Pungent (Katu)

❋ Qualities (Guna): Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha), and Sharp (Teekshna)

❋ Metabolic property(Vipaka): Pungent (Katu) after digestion

❋ Potency (Virya): Hot (Ushna)

Common Names of Tulsi

Botanical Name: Ocimum tenuiflorum

English Name: Sacred Basil leaves

Tamil Name: துளசி – Thulasi ilai

Malayalam Name: തുളസി – Tuḷasi

Telugu Name: తులసి – Tulasi

Hindi Name: तुलसी – Tulsi

Marathi Name: Tulsi

Bengali Name: Tulsi, Kalotulsi, Kural

Gujarati Name: Talasi, Sabje

Different Types of Tulsi

There are four types of tulsi, or holy basils are available, namely, Rama tulsi, Krishna Tulsi, Vana Tulsi, and Kapoor Tulsi.

The other type of tulsi is sweet tulsi, which is commonly used to add flavors to food.

Rama Tulsi

The Rama Tulsi is also known as Lakshmi Tulsi, Sri Tulsi, and Green Leaf Tulsi. This type of tulsi has a light purple flower, which is usually found in cloves.

This green leaf tulsi is commonly used for the cooling process and for its mellower taste.

This variety of tulsi is widely found in Brazil, China, Eastern Nepal, Chatgaon, Bihar, Bengal, and the south Indian States.

The whole plant has a strong aroma.

This ram Tulsi has fragrance characteristics; when crushing the leaves of this tulsi between the palms, it emits a stronger fragrance than the other types of tulsi.

Krishna Tulsi

Krishna Tulsi is also known as Shyama tulsi or purple leaf tulsi.

This type of tulsi is most famous for its crisp and peppery taste.

This type of tulsi can easily be identified by its purple-colored leaves and dark stems.

It can easily grow in many Indian regions, and it is more difficult to find than green-type tulsi.

This type of tulsi is used to treat respiratory problems, throat infections, skin problems, and earaches.

The oil prepared from the Krishna Tulsi is used as ear drops. It is also used to treat indigestion, malaria, cholera, and insomnia.

Vana Tulsi

Vana tulsi is a Wild type of tulsi; the native of this tulsi is Sri Lanka, India, and the Northern Part of Africa.

This type is widely cultivated for its medicinal property, and also it plays an important role in Indian religious beliefs.

This type is commonly grown in the Himalayan regions in India.

This herbal plant has light green leaves with a lemony flavor and aroma.

The leaves of the vana tulsi help to increase the immunity power, and it is usually used to prepare tea.

The benefits of tulsi tea are high as it gives both mental and physical endurance, and it adds more nutrients and oxygen to the bloodstream.

Kapoor Tulsi

This type of tulsi is a short, and heavily flowered plant, this type was originally introduced to the US as a Holy Basil.

This type is commonly cultivated in India and the US.

This is the easiest growing type of tulsi, and it gives the standard basil culture.

Sweet Basil

Sweet Basil is the most popular culinary herb.

It is a tender annual, aromatic herb. This type of tulsi is commonly grown for its spicy aroma and flavor.

Health Benefits of Tulsi

1. Act as an anti-inflammatory

The tulsi has a strong anti-inflammatory property, that helps to cure different types of health problems. The tulsi leaves also have citronellol, eugenol, enzyme-inhibiting oils, and linalool.

The anti-inflammatory property of the tulsi helps to lower the inflammation so that you can avoid the risk of rheumatoid arthritis, heart problems, and inflammatory bowel.

Chewing the tulsi leaves helps to cure headaches, fever, cold, sore throat, flu, and cough.

2. Lower Blood Pressure

Tulsi leaves help to regulate the cortisol level, which can lower cholesterol and blood pressure level.

Due to this property, the tulsi leaves reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other heart problems.

The tulsi also helps to reduce anxiety and depression. It also regulates consumption so that you can get better sleep and it relieves headaches.

3. Skin Care

The essential oil from the tulsi is performed as an excellent skin cleanser, it is perfect for the person who has the oilskin. 

Tulsi oil is used to remove the impurities and dirt that block the pores of the skin.

Apply the tulsi leaves paste on the face for 20 minutes and wash your face using cold water.

The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of the tulsi leaves help to protect the skin from the formation of acne. 

Tulsi paste is also known as an ailment to heal many diseases.

The extract from the tulsi leaves helps to cure skin problems and ringworm.

Some of the physicians are using tulsi paste as skin ointments and also it is used to treat leucoderma.

The tulsi is also used to prevent premature aging and helps to maintain healthy skin.

4. Has Disease-fighting Antioxidants

The essential oil of the Tulsi helps to fight against the radical damage that protects the cells and DNA structure.

Tulsi leaves have the two water-soluble flavonoid antioxidants, viceninare, and orientin, it helps to improve the immunity system, protect the DNA and cell structure, and reduce skin aging.

5. Stress Buster

The essential tulsi oil helps to reduce anxiety and depression also.

This herbal plant stimulates the neurotransmitters that help to regulate the hormones so that it improves happiness and energy.

Chewing the fresh tulsi leaves helps to control the stress and it helps to manage anxiety. Tulsi tea is highly recommended to reduce stress.

6. Regulate Blood Sugar

The tulsi leaves are also used to maintain blood sugar at a stable level. It helps to improve metabolism, promotes good fat and carbohydrates in the body.

7. Protect against infection and heal wounds

Applying the extract of the tulsi leaves on the wound will reduce the healing time.

Some people are using this tulsi extract after the surgery to protect and heal wounds from infection.

It helps to increase the breaking strength of the wound and also it boosts the healing time and contraction.

8. Treats Gastric Disorders

Tulsi is used to treat ulcers, indigestion, vomiting, intestinal parasites, menstrual cramps, gastric disorders, and stomach pain.

It is also used to reduce kidney stone pain and helps to prevent kidney stones.

9. Tulsi for fever

The decoction of neem leaves, tulsi leaves, long pepper powder, and ginger powder is used to reduce the fever and the considerable symptoms of fever.

The tea made by tulsi leaves has effectively fought against dengue and malaria fever, it is highly recommended to use in the rainy season.

Applying the tulsi leaves paste on the cold feet at fever time provides more benefits to you.

10. Home Remedy for Cough

Tulsi leaves are the best home remedy to treat cold and cough.

The decoction of the tulsi leaves, black and long pepper powder, and ginger powder with honey is used three times per day to cure the cold, cough, and fever in the rainy season.

Tulsi leaves are a good remedy to cure the symptoms of cold and cough.

The tulsi leaves juice with the sugar is functional medicine for the person who is suffering from the expectorant.

The mixture of tulsi leaves, ginger juice, and onion is suitable for dry cough.

What is Tulsi Good For?

✤ Tulsi for Skin

Tulsi is proven as one of the safest skin creams, and it provides a massive benefit to your skin.

If you consume or apply the tulsi leaves paste on your skin, it will reflect on your skin health.

This is an excellent herb to treat skin infection, acne, dark spots, and also it helps to improve the texture of the skin.

Using the tulsi leaves powder with the egg helps to tighten the pores on the skin.

It is also used to treat any kind of skin allergy.

✤ Tulsi For Eyes

Nowadays, the eyes are highly affected by dust and infection so most people have eye infections.

Tulsi is an immediate solution to cure eye infections.

By using the tulsi leaves paste you can soothe your eyes.

Washing the eyes using the tulsi leaves boiled water will help to remove the dust from the eyes.

The eyes washed with the tulsi leaves boiled water also helps to reduce the strain on the eyes, and makes you feel relaxed.

The Tulsi eyewash is also protecting your eyes from many infections, like boils and conjunctivitis.

✤ Tulsi For Hair

One of the holy basil benefits is, it is used to treat hair problems; you can apply the tulsi paste for multiple reasons that help to cure hair problems in all ways.

Using the Tulsi leaves on the hair will prevent hair fall, and also it stops the hair from becoming graying and keeps it black and thick.

Applying the paste of the tulsi leaves will stop dandruff and prevent dry scalp.

Benefits of Tulsi Tablet

The Tulsi tablets consist of the tulsi powder and tulsi extract from the tulsi leaves, which is used to treat allergic rhinitis, common cold, cough, and other respiratory problems.

Tulsi tablets are also used to treat other cold-related problems, such as running nose and sneezing, and it helps to soothe your throat and clears the respiratory tract.

The tulsi tablet is also used to manage stress.

How to consume Tulsi Tablet?

You have to be prescribed by the physician before using the tulsi tablet; it can be taken two times per day.

Consulting with the physician will help to avoid side effects.

Get the 100% organic herb in the form of pills that save the cleaning and consuming time of the herb.

These processes are compressed into the pill, which helps to fight against cough, cold, and other respiratory problems.

If you suffer from cough and cold, the tulsi tablet will help to fight against the infections. You can confidently use the tulsi tablets without any fear of side effects.

Nowadays, most people understand the benefits of herbs and their effect to cure health problems.

The zero side effect of these herbs is challenging western medicine.

Frequently Asked Questions

How and When to grow Tulsi?

Usually, the tulsi plant is grown well in moisture-rich soil, the ample sunlight is enough for the growth of the tulsi plant.

You can start planting by burying the seeds into the few centimeters below the soil and lightly cover with the dirt.

Allows the tulsi plant to grow indoors till it grows 6-7 inches tall.

After this transfer the plant to the outdoors.

Tulsi should be planted under the intense heat, before the monsoon.

How to Consume Tulsi?

Tulsi can be consumed raw, pluck the leaves fresh from the plant, and consuming will give a good result.

You can add the tulsi leaves to the tea or make kadha out of it.

Apart from consuming the tulsi leaves in the usual way, you can use the holy basil with your cooking for the taste and aromatic flavor of your food.

Using the tulsi leaves, you can prepare the most basic and widely loved sweet foods.

How to Drink Tulsi Tea?

The herbal infusion or herbal tea is the easiest way to consume the tulsi leaves. 

To prepare Tulsi Tea:

• Boil 1 cup of water
• Pour 1 spoon of fresh tulsi leaves or use 1/2 spoon of dried tulsi leaves or 1/3 spoon of tulsi powder.
• Boil to water with the substances for 20 minutes.
• Filter the leaves and add the honey with the filtered water.

Is Caffeine Content in Tulsi Tea?

Tulsi tea is free from caffeine so you can safely consume it six times per day.

Anyhow, the tea producers add the tulsi with the green, white, or black tea leaves, so if you want to avoid the caffeine, you have to check the package carefully.

Types of Tulsi in India

Tulsi, also known as Holy Basil, is a popular herb in India with numerous health benefits.

It has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years and is still revered as a sacred plant.

Tulsi is not just a herb, but a way of life in India, and there are several types of Tulsi found across the country.

In this article, we’ll explore the different types of Tulsi in India, which type of Tulsi is the best, and how to grow and care for Tulsi plants.

There are four main types of Tulsi found in India:

• Rama Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum): Rama Tulsi is known for its cooling and mellow flavor. It has green leaves and is the most commonly grown Tulsi variety in India.

• Krishna Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum): Krishna Tulsi has dark purple leaves and is known for its strong flavor. It is used in many Ayurvedic medicines for its medicinal properties.

• Vana Tulsi (Ocimum gratissimum): Vana Tulsi has a wild and bushy appearance and is commonly found in forests.

It has a stronger aroma than Rama and Krishna Tulsi.

• Kapoor Tulsi (Ocimum americanum): Kapoor Tulsi is also known as temperate Tulsi, and it is a shorter variety with a distinct camphor-like aroma.

It is used in making herbal teas.

Which type of Tulsi is best?

All four types of Tulsi have their unique properties and health benefits.

However, according to Ayurveda, Krishna Tulsi is considered the most potent, with the highest medicinal value.

It is rich in antioxidants, helps in relieving stress, and is beneficial for respiratory disorders.

Purple Leaf Tulsi

Purple Leaf Tulsi, also known as Krishna Tulsi or Shyama Tulsi, is a type of holy basil plant (Ocimum tenuiflorum) that has dark purple leaves.

It is a popular herb in Ayurvedic medicine and is believed to have numerous health benefits.

Some of the reported benefits of Purple Leaf Tulsi include:

• Boosting Immunity: It is believed to have immunomodulatory properties that help boost the immune system and protect against infections and diseases.

• Anti-inflammatory: It has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body and alleviate symptoms of conditions such as arthritis.

• Antioxidant: It is rich in antioxidants, which help protect the body against free radical damage and oxidative stress.

• Stress Reduction: It is known for its adaptogenic properties, which help the body cope with stress and anxiety.

• Respiratory Health: It is commonly used to treat respiratory ailments such as coughs, colds, and asthma.

Purple Leaf Tulsi can be consumed in various forms, including tea, capsules, and powder.

It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before adding any new herb or supplement to your diet.

Green Leaf  Tulsi

Green Leaf Tulsi, also known as Rama Tulsi, is another type of holy basil plant (Ocimum tenuiflorum) that has light green leaves.

Like Purple Leaf Tulsi, it is a popular herb in Ayurvedic medicine and is believed to have various health benefits.

Some of the reported benefits of Green Leaf Tulsi  include:

• Anti-inflammatory: It has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body and alleviate symptoms of conditions such as arthritis.

• Antioxidant: It is rich in antioxidants, which help protect the body against free radical damage and oxidative stress.

• Digestive Health: It is believed to help improve digestion and relieve digestive problems such as bloating, gas, and constipation.

• Respiratory Health: It is commonly used to treat respiratory ailments such as coughs, colds, and flu.

• Stress Reduction: It is known for its adaptogenic properties, which help the body cope with stress and anxiety.

Green Leaf Tulsi can be consumed in various forms, including tea, capsules, and powder.

It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before adding any new herb or supplement to your diet.

Kapoor Tulsi

Kapoor Tulsi, also known as Camphor Tulsi or Variegated Tulsi, is a type of holy basil plant (Ocimum tenuiflorum) that has green and white variegated leaves with a camphor-like aroma.

It is also a popular herb in Ayurvedic medicine and is believed to have various health benefits.

Some of the reported benefits of Kapoor Tulsi include:

• Anti-inflammatory: It has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body and alleviate symptoms of conditions such as arthritis.

• Antimicrobial: It has antimicrobial properties that can help fight against various pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

• Respiratory Health: It is commonly used to treat respiratory ailments such as coughs, colds, and bronchitis.

• Digestive Health: It is believed to help improve digestion and relieve digestive problems such as bloating, gas, and constipation.

• Skin Health: It is also used in traditional medicine for its ability to improve skin health and treat skin conditions such as eczema and acne.

Kapoor Tulsi can be consumed in various forms, including tea, capsules, and powder.

It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before adding any new herb or supplement to your diet.
How to grow and care for Tulsi plants?

Growing Tulsi is relatively easy, and it can be grown in pots or in the ground. Here are some steps to grow and care for Tulsi plants:

• Choose a sunny spot: Tulsi needs plenty of sunlight to grow. Choose a spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight.

• Prepare the soil: Tulsi prefers well-drained soil with a pH level of 6 to 7.5. You can add some organic manure to the soil to enhance its fertility.

• Sow the seeds: Sow the Tulsi seeds about 1 cm deep in the soil. You can also use stem cuttings to propagate Tulsi.

• Water regularly: Tulsi needs regular watering, especially during the summer months. Water the plants deeply but make sure the soil is not waterlogged.

• Fertilize: You can add organic fertilizers like compost or cow dung to the soil every month to provide the required nutrients to the plant.

• Prune regularly: Prune the Tulsi plant regularly to promote bushy growth and prevent leggy growth.
  

 In conclusion, Tulsi is a highly revered herb in India with several health benefits.

There are four main types of Tulsi found in India, with Krishna Tulsi considered the most potent.

Growing Tulsi is relatively easy, and with the right care, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of this wonderful herb.