THE BENEFITS OF HOLY BASIL TEA

Holy Basil, also known as Tulsi, is not your typical sweet basil that most of us are familiar with. This herb is well known in Indian medicine to treat an array of physical ailments. Holy Basil is said to contain antifungal, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties. Studies have shown that Holy Basil can help lower stress, blood pressure and sugar, aid in improving pain and inflammation in the joints, heal wounds in the mouth and on the body, aid the lungs and respiratory system and more.

Not only has Holy Basil been used to help internal ailments, but it has also been used to aid in skin and hair conditions. Holy Basil may help fight and prevent acne, support healthy skin and aging, reduce pigmentation, soothe skin conditions like eczema, prevent hair loss or thinning, and prevent dandruff. 

Holy Basil can be used in a variety ways and also taken in a few ways. Some people like to use the oils from the plant especially for topical use. Others tend to drink the tea which is a great way to add this special herb to your everyday ritual. Most health food stores carry the tea, and you can find the plants themselves at smaller farms. 

Here are a few ways to make the tea:

Dry

You can prepare the tea either from fresh or dry leaves. In order to make tea from dry leaves, take 2–3 teaspoons of holy basil in a cup of boiling water and let it steep for 5–6 minutes. Viola! 

Fresh

Take 5-6 sprigs of Holy Basil and let sit out on a dry rack or towel for one day. You will notice that it will start to wilt. Heat a quart of water to 190F/88C. Place the wilted sprigs into a canning jar or a big enough glass that you are able to cover with a plate or lid in order to catch all the oils that will be released. Pour your hot water over your sprigs then cover for 15 minutes. You can strain or leave the sprigs. Drink hot or cold!

Sources:

https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/basil-benefits#how-to-use

https://draxe.com/nutrition/holy-basil-benefits/

https://foodinjars.com/recipe/make-fresh-tulsi-tea/