Holy Basil Medicinal Benefits

Holy Basil medicinal benefits

Holy Basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum or Ocimum sanctum) is known as the "Queen of Herbs" in Ayurveda. This plant is even worshiped by Hindu families of India. One of the reason behind this respect given to this plant is its medicinal properties. According to Ayurveda no other plant have so many medicinal properties. In India, Holy Basil is known as "Tulsi".

Here we will provide a list of medicinal benefits of Holy Basil with some research studies to prove these facts.

• Fights Bacterial Infection: Even a small wound can become a problematic thing due to bacterial infection. Holy basil can easily control such bacterial infections just like a powerful antibiotic. Research Findings.
• It can improve the capability of your brain: Extract of roots of holy basil is known to have de-stressing and mentally stimulating capabilities. Researches are being done to know more this fact.
• Reduces Harmful Cholesterol: Some researches done on animals have shown that this herb can lower the harmful cholesterol level in blood. (Research Findings).It also protects the heart from chronic stress.
• Healing Power: Don't think that it will make you Wolverine, but extract of leaves of holy basil can boost wound healing.
• Type2 Diabetes Cure: Holy basil can lower the sugar level . Some preliminary research findings have supported this belief. Research Findings.
• Good for Stomach: Anti Ulcer properties of Holy Basil reduces the stomach acid, acid reflux and ulcers. Consumption of Holy basil increases the protective mucus production in stomach.
• Reduces Inflammation: Holy basil is known to reduce inflammation. This quality of holy basil is good for joint pains.
• Helps in fighting against Common Cold: People in India use holy basil in tea to get relief from common cold.
• Helps in treating Bronchitis and Asthama. Tulsi leaves are one of the major constituents of Ayurvedic cough syrups.
•  Some studies have shown than it can be used in Cancer Treatment just like the radiation therapy.
• Removes kidney stones: Holy basil is also know to make our kidneys stronger and remove stone through urinary tract. 
• Useful in Pyorrhea and teeth disorder: Powdered form of dry leaves of holy basil can be used as a tooth powder. Or that powder can be mixed with mustard oil to use it as a tooth paste. It not only cleanses the teeth and remove bad breath but also helps in treating pyorrhea.
• Removes headache and stress
• Cures from fever

Before applying any of these usages in your daily life, its better to consult your an ayurvedic doctor.

Holy Basil is not only used in Ayurveda but also in Greek, Roman and Siddha medicine system.  It has following medicinal properties

• Antioxidant
• Antibacterial
• Anti-fungal
• Anti-inflammatory