Ocimum basilicum

General information:

Holy Basil is one of the most revered plants in India. In Ayurveda, it is often said to be the ‘elixir of life’. A sacred plant in Hinduism Tulsi means ‘the incomparable one in Sanskrit’. In Ayurvedic tradition, Tulasi is used to support the normal respiratory function, promote good health and longevity.
Holy Basil is grown all over India, in houses, gardens and temples.

Constituents:

The major components of the essential oil of Holy Basil are eugenol, carvacrol, nerol and eugenol methylether, which give the plant its antibacterial and antifungal properties. Ursolic acid, isolated from the leaves, is an expectorant, which relieves respiratory disorders.

Benefits:

• Holy Basil is extremely effective in curing nearly all types of respiratory disorders, including chronic and acute bronchitis.
• The herb is an antioxidant and contains vitamin C, which is helpful in lowering stress levels.