Tulsi, also known as holy basil, is one of the best medicinal herbs on the planet. It possesses incredible medicinal properties that can help us boost the immune system.
Here are some ways tulsi works to protect us against various diseases and improve our overall health.
May Optimize Immune Response
Tulsi can act as a natural immune system booster. Its leaf extract increases the T-helper cells and natural killer cells activity thereby boosting the immune system.
The herb is an “immunomodulator”, which refers to agents that improve the functioning of the immune system, according to a 2011 study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology. The results of the study showed that these immunomodulatory effects can help increase the levels of helpful antibodies in controlled trials on human volunteers.
Protects Against Infection
Tulsi can protect against nearly all infections from viruses, bacteria, fungi, and protozoa.
It has anti-microbial properties, phytochemicals, bioflavonoids, and anti-oxidants compounds, such as rosmarinic acid, that may help fight off the infection that causes respiratory problems, such as cough and cold. The easiest way to boost the immune system is to have 1 – 2 cups of tulsi tea every day, especially during the monsoon season.
It also enhances immune responses by boosting defenses again infectious threats and was found to be effective against severe fever-causing infections such as malaria and typhoid.
May Provides Stress Relief
Stress has been found to directly impact our immune system. In a 2012 study, researchers found that tulsi can help us cope up with physical, psychological, metabolic, infectious, and chemical stress through a unique combination of pharmacological actions. It works by calming our system and fortifying its resilience to deal with the demands of everyday life.
A Powerful Adaptogen
Adaptogen is herbs that can help our body deal with all types of stress and counteract with its effects. Tulsi is considered an adaptogen as it helps in restoring balance or healthy physiological and psychological functioning.
Drinking a cup of tulsi tea in the morning can help improve our productivity in the coming hours while sipping it in the evening can help us calm down.
Ways Of Using Tulsi For Boosting Immunity
Tulsi, honey, and turmeric – This combination aids in digestion and has anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal properties that can help protect us from cough and cold.
Tulsi Tea – This tea is made of Tulsi leaves, jaggery, lemon juice, and water. It has anti-bacterial properties that keep us safe from seasonal fever and flu. It is recommended to have it warm for effective results.
Chewing tulsi leaves – chewing 10-12 Tulsi leaves on a daily basis helps keep our blood pressure under control and prevents stress. It purifies the blood and helps prevent several common elements.
Tulsi Water – This is made by boiling Tulsi leaves, cinnamon ginger, cardamon, and black pepper in water and strain. Experts recommend drinking ¼ cup of this on a daily basis to help the body recover from dengue and malaria.