Tulsi Queen of Herbs
It is a privilege to have the opportunity to write the introduction to this historic document, which presents the first extensive overview of India's legendary holy basil Tulsi , integrating the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda with modern experimental and clinical research. Dr. Singh and Dr. Hoette ambitiously address the major health crises of our times and provide impressive evidence for an ancient remedy.
When I was first introduced to the sacred Tulsi some years back, my first reaction, as a Western scientist, was disbelief. This can't be so, I thought. This herb sounds too good to be true. There seemed to be far more wide-ranging health benefits attributed to this plant than could be possible for a single agent. Yet, I realized that there must be a compelling reason why Tulsi has, for thousands of years, remained one of the most cherished of India's sacred healing plants. Furthermore, in addition to being a pillar of the traditional Ayurvedic holistic health system, Tulsi continues to be spiritually honored daily by millions. So, it really can't be much of a surprise to discover that modern science is accumulating evidence in support of many of the traditional health promotion and disease treatment uses of Tulsi.
What are the health benefits of Tulsi?
Tulsi is rich in antioxidant and renowned for its restorative powers, Tulsi has several benefits:
· Relieves stress / adaptogen
· Bolsters immunity
· Enhances stamina
· Provides support during cold season
· Promotes healthy metabolism
· A natural immuno-modulator
"Modern scientific research offers impressive evidence that Tulsi reduces stress, enhances stamina, relieves inflammation, lowers cholesterol, eliminates toxins, protects against radiation, prevents gastric ulcers, lowers fevers, improves digestion and provides a rich supply of antioxidants and other nutrients. Tulsi is especially effective in supporting the heart, blood vessels, liver and lungs and also regulates blood pressure and blood sugar." Dr. Ralph Miller, former Director of Research for the Canadian Dept. of Health and Welfare.
The unique chemistry of Tulsi is highly complex. Tulsi contains hundreds of beneficial compounds known as phyto-chemicals. Working together, these compounds possess strong antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, adaptogenic, and immune-enhancing properties that promote general health and support the body's natural defense against stress and diseases. The essential oils in the leaves of Tulsi that contribute to the fragrance and refreshing flavor of Tulsi Tea, are a particularly rich source of valuable phyto-chemicals.
An adaptogen is an agent that helps the body adapt more efficiently to stress. Adaptogens reduce the intensity and negative impact of the stress caused by mental tension, emotional difficulties, poor lifestyle habits, disease and infection, pollution and other factors. Tulsi is one of the most effective adaptogens known.
Antioxidants slow down the process of excess oxidation and protect cells from the damage caused by free radicals. When cells are attacked by free radicals, excess oxidation occurs which damage and destroy cells. Antioxidants stop this process. The cellular damage caused by free radicals can be responsible for causing and/or accelerating many diseases. Tulsi is rich in antioxidants and is recommended to guard against free radicals and protect from damaging excess oxidation.
An immuno-modulator is an agent that balances and improves the immune response of the body in fighting antigens (disease causing agents such as bacteria, viruses, microbes, allergens etc.) and maintaining health.
Some of Tulsi effects are quite immediate, while others develop gradually after weeks of regular use. For example, you may feel more relaxed and energized after the first cup. Although Tulsi has many specific effects on different body systems, its main benefits arise from its impressive general capacity to assist the body's natural process of healing and maintaining health. Tulsi overall health promotion and disease prevention effects are powerful, but often subtle. For example, you may simply notice that you do not seem to be bothered by stress or common illnesses, such as colds or flu, nearly as often as before. Or you may notice that you generally tire less easily. As with many other herbal supplements, it usually takes at least a week or so of consistent use for the body to experience major benefits.
