Krishna Tulasi

Description

Stems and petioles pilose; leaves petiolate, oval, obtuse, toothed, Lubescent; floral leaves sessile, shorter than the pedicels; racemes slender, simple or branched at the base; calyx shorter than the pedicels, smoothish, upper-tooth obovate, concave; corolla hardly exceeding the calyx; flowers pale purple. Flower Nearly all the year. Habitat : Aromatic perennial herb Stem: Erect, quadrangular, hairy Leaves: Opposite, ovate, serrate, gland-dotted, fragrant Inflorescence: Verticillaster (clustered whorls) Flowers: Small, purple, bilabiate, bisexual, didynamous stamens Fruit: 4 nutlets (schizocarp)

Useful Parts

Whole plant

Benefits

1. Anti-stress and Adaptogenic Properties: Tulsi helps the body adapt to stress, acting as an adaptogen to promote overall well-being and reduce symptoms of stress and fatigue. 2. Antioxidant Effects: It is rich in antioxidants that combat free radical damage, which can contribute to chronic diseases and aging. 3. Anti-inflammatory Action: Tulsi possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation and ease joint pain. 4. Immune Support: It may boost the immune system, helping the body fight off various infections due to its antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. 5. Cardioprotective and Hypolipidemic Effects: The herb can support heart health by helping to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. 6. Antidiabetic Properties: Studies suggest that tulsi can help manage blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for those with type 2 diabetes. 7. Respiratory and Oral Health: Its compounds like eugenol and cineole are beneficial for respiratory issues like asthma, coughs, and bronchitis, while also acting as a natural mouth freshener and disinfectant.

Pharmacological Action

Antimicrobial – kills bacteria, fungi, viruses Antioxidant – prevents free radical damage Anti-inflammatory & Analgesic – reduces pain & swelling Immunomodulatory – boosts immunity Adaptogenic – anti-stress, balances cortisol Antidiabetic – lowers blood sugar Cardioprotective – protects heart, lowers lipids Hepatoprotective – safeguards liver Anti-cancer – prevents tumor growth Respiratory – expectorant, bronchodilator Anti-ulcer – protects gastric mucosa Neuroprotective – memory, anti-anxiety, antidepressant Wound healing – faster tissue repair

Rasapancakam

Rasa: Katu, Tikta

Guna: Laghu, Ruksha

Virya: Usna

Vipaka: Katu

Dosha Karma: Vatakapha hara