Researched Health Benefits of Tulsi Tea

Also known as holy basil, Tulsi is a herb native to India and is considered sacred in Hindu tradition. It has been used for thousands of years in Ayurveda for its diverse healing properties. Tulsi tea is made from the leaves of this plant and it is highly beneficial for human health. In this article, we will explore the main health benefits of Tulsi tea and provide scientific sources to validate these claims.

Rich in Antioxidants

Tulsi is rich in compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, such as eugenol, rosmarinic acid, apigenin, luteolin, and β-sitosterol, which can help protect the body against oxidative stress. (1)

Stress Relief

Tulsi is an adaptogen, a natural substance that helps the body adapt to stress and promotes mental balance. Animal studies suggest that Tulsi can enhance mood and cognitive function, showing potential as a natural remedy for anxiety and depression. (2)

Supports Heart Health

Research suggests that Tulsi may reduce blood pressure and cholesterol, thereby reducing the risk of heart diseases. (3)

Regulates Blood Sugar

Several studies indicate that Tulsi leaves may help regulate blood sugar levels and thus can be beneficial for people with diabetes. (4)

Respiratory Benefits

Traditionally, Tulsi has been used to treat respiratory ailments and as an herbal tea, it can help relieve asthma, cough, cold, and flu symptoms. (5)

Anti-Cancer Properties

There are studies showing the effect of Tulsi on specific types of cancer. View our full sourced article on the Anti-Cancer Properties of Tulsi.

Conclusion

Tulsi tea offers a wide range of potential health benefits, from reducing stress to regulating blood sugar. Regular consumption of Tulsi tea can contribute to overall health and well-being. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before making significant changes to your diet, especially for those taking medication or with existing health conditions.

Sources:

1. Cohen, Marc Maurice. "Tulsi - Ocimum sanctum: A herb for all reasons." Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, vol. 5, no. 4, 2014, pp. 251–259.
2. Bhattacharyya, D., et al. "Controlled programmed trial of Ocimum sanctum leaf on generalized anxiety disorders." Journal of Pharmacology & Pharmacotherapeutics, vol. 4, no. 3, 2008, pp. 176–179.
3. Pattanayak, Priyabrata, et al. "Ocimum sanctum Linn. A reservoir plant for therapeutic applications: An overview." Pharmacognosy Reviews, vol. 4, no. 7, 2010, pp. 95–105.
4. Agrawal, Poonam, et al. "Randomized placebo-controlled, single blind trial of holy basil leaves in patients with noninsulin-dependent diabetes mellitus." International Journal of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics, vol. 34, no. 9, 1996, pp. 406–409.
5. Singh, Surender, et al. "Anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of pyrroloquinazoline alkaloids from Adhatoda vasica Nees." Phytomedicine, vol. 15, no. 4, 2008, pp. 264–267.