Holy BasilAn Ayurvedic Tradition by Neelam Toprani

Holy basil, or tulsi, holds one of the most supreme places among the medicinal herbs in India. The ancient scriptures describe it as the protector of life, ac-companying humans from birth up till death. There are innumerable references of tulsi in Indian mythology. The ancient Ayurvedic scriptures mentioned the plant in the management of several dis-eases. The plant has a purify-ing influence by liberating ozone and is also known to repel mosquitoes. Its healing properties are so well estab-lished that most people in In-dia grow it in courtyards and

traditionally worshipped it in a daily ritual for the well-being of the family.

Botanists have given tulsi the Latin name Ocimum sanctum. The species includes both the green-leafed rama tulsi and the

purple-leafed krishna tulsi. More recently Ocimum has also been known by Ocimum tenuiflorum, meaning basil with

smaller flowers.

Long history of healing

The seeds, leaves and roots of holy basil have great medicinal value, used both internally and externally. Holy basil has

mild antiseptic and analgesic properties and relieves swelling. The leaves, when chewed, miti- gate infection of the gums.

Instillation of the fresh juice of the leaves into ears is an effective remedy for ear aches. A tea made with the leaves is

a common remedy for cold, cough and mild indigestion.

Ancient Ayurveda texts describe multiple uses of holy basil in treating impotence, poisoning, dyspnea (difficult breathing),

coughs, nasal inflammation, bad breath, backaches, respiratory diseases and arthritis. Holy basil is traditionally used in many Ayurvedic preparations as a blood purifier in the diseases of the blood and heart. It is an immuno -modulator and antimicrobial remedy with the ability to reduce toxicity. asthma increased lung vital capacity and relieved laboured breathing.

Holy basil contains many bioactive substances including minerals and vitamins, which normalize the disturbed

physiological functions of the body by harmonizing imbalances.

Stronger with synergies

Ayurvedic medical know-ledge, with its many disciplines and medicinal plants, and its long history of use and

documented evidence of safety and efficacy, has made an invaluable contribution to modern medical science in the

understanding and treatment of diseases. The Ayurvedic pharmacopeia of India has a long list of herbal preparations with

holy basil as an important ingredient.

In keeping with the guide-lines of Ayurvedic classical formulations, holy basil is often combined in synergy with

other key Ayurvedic herbs including ashwagandha, karanja, chitraka, amla and turmeric. These formulations

enhance the bioavailability of holy basil and stimulate its activity. Neelam Toprani is CEO of Pad-mashri Naturals Inc., a manufactur-er and wholesaler of the Sewanti Ayurveda series and Padmashri

massage oils. Manufactured in Richmond, B.C., these products are 100-percent vegan and free of additives, heavy metals, pesticides and

GMO contaminants. www.sewanti.com

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