In India, the Tulsi plant is considered auspicious and is worshiped. Tulsi tea, which originated thousands of years ago in India, is known for its high antioxidant and adaptogenic content, which helps to enhance wellbeing by boosting the immune system, lowering stress, and improving mental clarity.
Because of its health advantages and therapeutic powers, it is considered one of India’s most sacred plants. Antioxidants in Tulsi Tea protect cells from free radical damage, which aids in the onset and progression of a variety of ailments. Around Hindu shrines, the sacred plant is frequently grown.
Tulsi derives from the Sanskrit word tulsi, which means “the incomparable one.”
What is Tulsi Tea?
Tulsi tea is made from dried leaves and can help you naturally prevent a variety of diseases. Tulsi leaves are known to include a variety of antioxidants that help protect the body from free radical damage.
Tulsi tea is prepared by adding fresh or dried Tulsi leaves to water and letting it boil for 3-4 minutes. After water attains all the flavors and nutritional properties of Tulsi, sieve it and enjoy it warm. The warm water constituting beneficial health properties of Tulsi is known as Tulsi tea.
Read More:
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2. Health Benefits of Lukewarm Water
Tulsi Tea Benefits
Tulsi is commonly used as a home treatment for fever and colds. It’s also beneficial for diabetics.
The effects of tulsi are numerous, including digestive stimulant, antiemetic (effective against vomiting and nausea), antitoxic, dysuria (painful or difficult urination) reliever, expectorant, adaptogen, anti-cancer, antioxidant, calculi dissolver, and many others.
Holy basil is revered by Hindus. It’s known as “Nature’s Mother Medicine.” It’s been revered as a herb that may support a healthy body, mind, and spirit since ancient times.
Here are some reasons why you should drink tulsi tea instead of your regular tea:
1. Tulsi, as one of the greatest antiviral and anti-cholesterol herbs, is your immune system’s and heart’s closest companion. Consumption of Tulsi tea is very good for cardiac health.
2. Tulsi tea is a superb adaptogenic and stress reliever that helps to quiet the mind, making it an essential part of any religious ceremony.
3. Strengthens the immune system, prolongs life and improves overall well-being.
4. Hot flashes and other menopause symptoms can be relieved with this Tulsi tea.
5. Lowers cholesterol and blood pressure, which is good for the heart.
6. Reduces stress’s detrimental physical and psychological consequences.
7. Enhances stamina, strength, and endurance by increasing the body’s effectiveness in utilizing oxygen.
8. This tea promotes the health of the lungs.
9. Aids in digestion and the treatment of gastrointestinal issues.
10. Bio-chemicals that contribute to cancer, degenerative illnesses, and premature aging are neutralized with the help of Tulsi tea.
11. Aids in the proper functioning of the liver.
12. Reduces cell and tissue damage caused by the sun, radiation therapy, and other sources of radiation.
13. Alleviate arthritis and other inflammatory illnesses.
14. Tulsi tea aids in the fight against infections.
15. Tulsi tea can help prevent a variety of respiratory ailments, including colds, coughs, bronchitis, and asthma.
It has immunomodulatory (helps to boost immunity), antitussive (helps to relieve cough), and expectorant (helps to get rid of phlegm) qualities that help to relieve respiratory problems.
Tulsi Tea Side Effects
Tulsi is known as the “Golden Remedy of Ayurveda” and a “mother medicine of nature” because of its numerous health benefits.
Tulsi, often known as holy basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum), is perhaps the most respected medicinal herb on the earth. Violet flowers and blossoms adorn the shrub. A purple hue can be seen on the green stalks.
The Tulsi plant, in addition to its therapeutic benefits, is also revered in India, which is why it can be found in practically every Indian home. As a result, we’re sure you never imagined Tulsi might have any negative consequences.
But, much to our dismay, these nutrient-dense leaves may also have some negative health consequences. When it comes to basil, some people should be cautious.
Continue reading to learn about the five negative effects of Tulsi leaves / Tulsi tea.
1. Allergic reaction:- Some people have an allergic reaction to ingesting or coming into contact with mint herbs, Tulsi also belongs to this family. Anyone with this type of allergy should avoid basil and check the packaged food to make sure it is not an ingredient.
If you experience hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing after eating basil, you should see an urgent doctor. Severe allergic reactions can lead to anaphylaxis, a life-threatening emergency.
2. Not appropriate for expecting females:- Tulsi tea can impact the health of a pregnant woman and her embryo. In extreme cases, it can even lead to a miscarriage. The herb may cause uterine contractions that may be hazardous.
Tulsi leaves may encourage the flow of blood to the uterus and pelvic area, which can cause contractions. Although there is not adequate evidence for or against the use of Tulsi tea during pregnancy. But professionals advise women to stop having Tulsi tea to be on a safer side.
3. May not be suitable for diabetic sufferers:- Various studies claim that Tulsi can lower blood sugar levels. But if someone is already taking medicines for diabetes then the consumption of Tulsi leaves / Tulsi tea may intensify the impact and cause the sugar level to fall too low.
4. May influence male and female progenies [ fertility]:- Although no human studies have yet asserted this, a study conducted on animals by the NCBI shows that Tulsi has a negative impact on the fertility of both genders.
The studies demonstrated that Tulsi may lower sperm count, reduce the weight of reproductive organs such as testes, adrenal glands, prostate, uterus, and ovary.
A traditional anti-fertility agent and libido intensifier in Ayurveda, Holy Basil (also known as Tulsi) is currently being studied for these two claims and their general health properties. A good source of dietary Ursolic acid, which may cause the anti-fertility aspects. But there’s no evidence in context with human beings yet, research is going on the human subjects.
5. May impede the blood-thinning drugs:- Tulsi tea is recognized to induce thinning of the blood. It’s an effective home remedy for people who don’t want to take medication for the same purpose.
But people who are already taking medicines for blood thinning, if they take Tulsi, it may adversely influence their health in a negative way. It should not be consumed by people who are on anti-clotting medications.
Tulsi Tea Recipes
Commonly Tulsi tea is consumed in three ways . Here is the recipe mentioned below:-
1. Tulsi tea
Ingredient:- 8-10 Tulsi leaves
1 & ½ cup of water
Portion Size:– 1 person [ 1 serving]
Time Consumed– 5 minutes
Steps:-
1. Turn the flame on
2. Take a utensil, add water
3. Add the holy basil leaves
4. Boil it for 4-5 minutes
5. Boil it till 1 & ½ cup water turns into 1 cup of water
6. Turn off the flame
7. Sieve the tea in a cup
8. Enjoy hot Tulsi tea sip by sip
2. Tulsi Tea with Lemon
Ingredient:- 8-10 Tulsi leaves
1 & ½ Cup of Water
3-4 drops of lemon juice
Portion Size:– 1 person [ 1 serving]
Time Consumed- 5 minutes
Steps:-
1. Turn the flame on
2. Take a utensil, add water
3. Add the holy basil leaves
4. Boil it for 4-5 minutes
5. Boil it till 1 & ½ cup water turns into 1 cup of water
6. Turn off the flame
7. Add lemon juice, stir it
8. Sieve the tea in a cup
9. Enjoy hot Tulsi tea with lemon sip by sip
3. Tulsi Tea with Ginger & Honey
Ingredient:- 8-10 Tulsi leaves
1 & ½ Cup of water
Grated ginger
1 Tablespoon Honey (you can take honey as per your requirement)
Portion Size:- 1 person [1 serving]
Time Consumed:- 10 minutes
Steps:-
1. Turn the flame on
2. Take a utensil, add water
3. Add the holy basil leaves
4. Boil it for 5 minutes
5. Add grated ginger
6. Again let it boil for 4-5 minutes
7. Boil it till 1 & ½ cup water turns into 1 cup of water
8. Turn off the flame
9. Add honey
10. Sieve the tea in a cup
11. Enjoy hot Tulsi tea with ginger and honey.
Conclusion
Tulsi Tea has a slew of other advantages, however many are still being studied for conclusive findings. One thing is certain: Tulsi leaves are beneficial to our health in a variety of ways.
People with high blood pressure should restrict their sodium intake, and using more herbs like basil to flavor dishes without adding salt is a good method to do so.
The phytochemical spectrum of holy basil is complicated (plant substances). Researchers discovered many bioactive (medicinal) chemicals in its leaves, including Clove oil (eugenol): It has the potential to decrease blood glucose levels, as well as treat digestive and respiratory issues. Ursolic acid is a kind of sulfuric acid.
Properties such as antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anticancer, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, analgesic (pain reliever), and antipyretic properties of ß-caryophyllene, Linalool is a natural insecticide (kills insects). It also contains sterols, histidine, vitamins, minerals, butanoic acid, etc.
FAQ
1. Can you drink tulsi tea every day?
Tulsi leaves also have antimicrobial characteristics, thus drinking tulsi tea on a regular basis will help you fight harmful bacteria and germs in your mouth. Tulsi tea can also be used to refresh your breath and prevent bad breath. Yes, tulsi tea can be consumed once a day.
2. What is the best time to drink tulsi tea?
You can consume it in the early morning on an empty stomach or you can also have it in the evening during evening snack.
3. Is tulsi tea good for weight loss?
Tulsi leaves may also help you lose weight. Tulsi leaves boost metabolism. It is easier to burn calories if your metabolism is rapid. Tulsi tea also aids in natural digestion and detoxification. This medicinal plant’s leaves can assist your metabolism get going. For the uninformed, a faster metabolism burns more calories.
4. Is it OK to drink tulsi tea at night?
Before going to bed, drink a cup of warm tulsi tea to get a better night’s sleep without feeling hazy in the morning. Use two or three tea bags per cup of tea to get the most effect per day but stop consuming if any allergic reaction is noted.
5. Is tulsi good for anxiety?
Tulsi tea aids in the maintenance of cortisol levels in the body, often known as the stress hormone. Tulsi tea decreases cortisol levels, which may help you feel less stressed and anxious. Tulsi tea might also aid in the reduction of blood sugar levels.
6. Is tulsi tea a black tea?
Yes, because it is blended with dried leaves and boiled water without adding milk into it.
7. Is tulsi tea good for the stomach?
Yes, Basil tea can help digestion by improving bowel movement when ingested on a regular basis. It prevents acid reflux and maintains a balanced pH level to promote proper digestion.
8. Is tulsi tea good for acid reflux?
Tulsi aids in the production of more mucus in the stomach. It has anti-ulcer qualities and inhibits stomach acid production. Chewing 4-6 Tulsi leaves for immediate relief is one of the simplest ways to combat the discomfort caused by acidity.
No, because Tulsi has a strong pungent taste and might create acidity, it should not be taken without water. Because of its Ushna (hot) strength, Tulsi drops should always be taken with water.
9. Does tulsi tea lower cortisol?
Holy basil tea can help to reduce cortisol levels and even manage blood sugar levels. It also enhances physical and mental endurance, making you more resilient, according to research. As a result, it aids in the reduction of stress and anxiety.
It can help to reduce the negative effects of stress on the body by producing calm and delivering long-lasting energy. The capacity of holy basil to normalize cortisol levels in the body is noteworthy.
10. Does tulsi tea lower blood pressure?
Tulsi, often known as basil, is effective in decreasing blood pressure. Tulsi contains the chemical eugenol, which helps lower blood pressure by fighting chemicals that restrict blood vessels. Tulsi tea appears to stabilize blood sugar, blood pressure, and lipid (cholesterol) levels in preliminary research.
11. Is tulsi tea the same as holy basil?
Yes, Tulsi often termed as holy basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum), is perhaps the most respected medicinal herb on the earth. Violet flowers and blossoms adorn the shrub. It’s hotter than other basil varieties, and it’s commonly referred to as “hot basil.”
12. Who should not take tulsi?
Tulsi possesses characteristics that can help us thin our blood. People who are currently on anti-clotting medications should avoid this plant, despite the fact that it has proven to be a fantastic home treatment for people who do not want to take allopathy meds.
Tulsi leaves contain mercury, which is harmful to the enamel and should not be chewed. Tulsi’s mercury content is released into your mouth as you chew it, which can harm your teeth and cause discoloration.
