Organic Holy Basil, Krishna (Ocimum tenuiflorum)

Herbs are Sold By the Ounce, Price is Per Ounce

Holy Basil, Krishna (Ocimum tenuiflorum)

Family: Lamiaceae

Common Names: Krishna Tulsi, Purple Tulsi, Shyama Tulsi, Sacred Basil

Botanical Description: Krishna Tulsi is one of the several varieties of Holy Basil, characterized by its dark purple stems and leaves. It is a small, aromatic perennial herb that grows up to 2 feet tall. The leaves are ovate and slightly toothed, with a strong, clove-like aroma. The plant produces small purple or pinkish flowers in spikes. Krishna Tulsi is often distinguished by its vibrant purple coloration, which intensifies in colder climates.

Habitat and Cultivation: Krishna Tulsi is native to the Indian subcontinent and grows well in tropical and subtropical regions. It thrives in well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight but can adapt to a variety of growing conditions. It is commonly grown in home gardens, temples, and as a potted plant for its religious significance and medicinal properties.

Parts Used: Leaves, flowers, seeds, and stems

Historical and Folklore Uses:

Holy Basil, particularly the Krishna variety, is highly revered in Hinduism and has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years. It is considered a sacred plant, often grown in courtyards and temples as it is believed to bring peace, health, and spiritual purity. Krishna Tulsi is used in rituals, prayers, and daily spiritual practices. In Ayurveda, it is known as an adaptogen and is used to balance the body, mind, and spirit.

Energetics and Taste:

• Energetics: Warming
• Taste: Spicy, pungent, slightly bitter

Medicinal Actions:

• Adaptogen: Helps the body adapt to stress and promotes overall balance.
• Nervine: Calms the nervous system and reduces anxiety.
• Antioxidant: Protects cells from oxidative stress and helps prevent chronic diseases.
• Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation throughout the body.
• Immunomodulatory: Supports and enhances the immune system.
• Antimicrobial: Fights bacterial, viral, and fungal infections.
• Expectorant: Helps clear mucus from the respiratory tract.

System Affinities:

• Nervous System: Krishna Tulsi is renowned for its ability to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. It promotes mental clarity and emotional balance.
• Respiratory System: The herb is used to treat respiratory conditions such as coughs, colds, bronchitis, and asthma, helping to clear mucus and reduce inflammation.
• Immune System: Krishna Tulsi boosts the immune system, making it effective in preventing and treating infections.
• Digestive System: It supports digestion, relieves gas and bloating, and may help in balancing gut flora.
• Cardiovascular System: Krishna Tulsi is used to support heart health, including managing blood pressure and reducing cholesterol levels.

Active Compounds:

• Eugenol: A compound with strong anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties, also responsible for the herb’s clove-like aroma.
• Rosmarinic Acid: An antioxidant that supports immune function and reduces inflammation.
• Ursolic Acid: Known for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties.
• Ocimarin: Contributes to the adaptogenic and stress-relieving properties of the plant.

Uses:

1. Stress Relief and Adaptogen: Krishna Tulsi is widely used to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. It helps the body adapt to physical and emotional stress and is considered a powerful adaptogen.
2. Immune Support: The herb is used to boost the immune system, helping to prevent and treat infections such as colds, flu, and respiratory illnesses.
3. Respiratory Health: Krishna Tulsi is commonly used to treat respiratory conditions like coughs, colds, asthma, and bronchitis. It acts as an expectorant and helps clear mucus.
4. Digestive Aid: It is used to support digestion, relieve gas and bloating, and maintain gut health.
5. Heart Health: Krishna Tulsi may help manage blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, and support overall cardiovascular health.

Cautions:

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Krishna Tulsi is generally considered safe, but it’s best to consult a healthcare provider before using it during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
• Blood Thinners: If you are taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications, consult a healthcare provider before using Krishna Tulsi, as it may enhance the effects of these medications.
• Hypoglycemia: Tulsi may lower blood sugar levels, so individuals on antidiabetic medications should monitor their blood sugar levels closely.

Research and Studies:

1. A study published in Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine highlighted the adaptogenic and stress-relieving effects of Holy Basil, supporting its traditional use in reducing stress and anxiety .
2. Research in Journal of Ethnopharmacology demonstrated the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of Krishna Tulsi, validating its use in treating infections and inflammatory conditions .
3. Another study in Phytotherapy Research confirmed the immune-boosting and antioxidant effects of Krishna Tulsi, supporting its role in enhancing overall health and well-being.