Tulsi is a special form of basil that has been used as a medicinal plant for a long time. Nutritionist Devon Peart from the Cleveland Clinic (USA) explains the health benefits of tulsi.
Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum), often referred to as holy basil, originally comes from India, but is now also grown in East Asia and Australia, for example. Tulsi is an important core component of Ayurvedic medical practices, where it is often used in the form of tea.
Tulsi in various forms of application
Tulsi can also be consumed raw if you have no problems with its bitter and spicy taste. Tulsi-based extracts, essential oils and dietary supplements are also available, says the expert.
However, according to Peart, it should be noted that such dietary supplements are usually less strictly regulated. It is advisable to consult a doctor before taking it, especially if you have any illnesses or are taking medication.
Health Benefits of Tulsi
A systematic analysis of a total of 24 studies identified various health benefits of tulsi. However, negative effects from its use for medical purposes could not be determined.
However, only seven of the studies analyzed were rated as high quality and the long-term effects of daily tulsi consumption remain largely unclear, explains Peart. In addition, there is no scientifically confirmed recommended dosage for Tulsi, for example.
But thousands of years of traditional use also point to certain advantages, the expert emphasizes. According to Peart, the potential benefits identified so far can be divided into three areas.
1. Metabolic benefits
It has been shown that tulsi could have a positive effect on various metabolic processes, which, according to the nutritionist, includes lowering blood sugar, improving LDL cholesterol levels, improving blood pressure and reducing inflammation.
Therefore, tulsi could be particularly beneficial for people suffering from diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity, arthritis or fibromyalgia.
2. Effect against stress and fatigue
The systematic review showed that tulsi can increase a person’s energy and help cope with physical and emotional stress, reports the expert.
One of the evaluated studies also showed that taking a eugenol tulsi leaf extract was associated with a significant improvement in fatigue and the immune response to viral infections.
An extract from tulsi can also improve the VO2max value, which is an important measurement of lung capacity, Peart adds in a press release.
3. Immunity and infections
Eugenol contained in Tulsi has anti-inflammatory properties and appears to have a positive effect on immunity and the progression of infections. Researchers believe that eugenol has similar benefits to cloves.
In one of the studies evaluated, daily use of a tulsi leaf extract over a period of four weeks was associated with an improved immune response, the expert added.
How safe is using Tulsi?
According to Peart, however, it has not yet been conclusively clarified whether Tulsi has any negative side effects. At this point, it remains unclear what dose is safe or how much Tulsi needs to be taken for certain health problems. Further research in this area is warranted.
Still, in general, taking tulsi daily has proven safe so far, Peart reports. According to the expert, Tulsi in the form of tea is particularly recommended for use.
Be careful with dietary supplements
When using dietary supplements with Tulsi, the nutritionist recommends consulting a doctor beforehand. In general, you can take too much of any dietary supplement, which can increase the risk of side effects. It should be avoided completely during pregnancy and breastfeeding. (as)