– Aparna Chatterjee
How often have you used Tulsi in your household? Growing up in a Hindu family, we were taught that Tulsi is a sacred herb from an early age. Only later did I realize why.
From kaadhaas to Prashad, this herb is crucial in many aspects. From our Dadi’s kitchen to Vicks VapoRub, this little herb has found its way to take care of us.
One of the healthiest and most commonly available herbs is Indian Basil, also known as Tulsi. The medical benefits of this herb are not obscure, yet we do not use it very often, except among our grandmothers. The advantage of Tulsi over Italian Basil is that it is more flavorful and fragrant, and has been shown to have medicinal properties. Italian Basil is sweeter and, hence, widely used in cuisine. However, we can use half the amount of Indian Basil to achieve the required flavor.
Here are some excellent ways to include Indian Basil in your diet!
- Chew a couple of leaves (Like cows!):
Chewing a few leaves can help improve your immunity, aiding in treating and preventing common colds and fevers.
It is rich in vitamin A, magnesium, and numerous other essential nutrients that can help protect cell walls from free radical damage, enhance blood flow, and prevent cholesterol from oxidizing in the bloodstream.
- Make Basil ice cubes:
Chop some leaves and set them in ice trays. Fill the trays with coconut water, fruit juice, or other liquid. Freeze for 4-6 hours, and voila! Healthy and refreshing cubes are ready!
The versatility of this recipe can go as broad as your imagination can.
You can use it in fruit juice, iced tea, or fruit beer, or add some fruits and turn it into a Popsicle! (This is my personal favorite!)
- Use it in your detox:
Detox drinks help flush excess toxins and are also widely used to support weight loss. It makes sense, since the first step to becoming a better you is to eliminate bad cholesterol and replenish your cells with good, organic nutrients. This tip is for you if you want to lose some excess or get your digestive system back on track.
Things you’ll need:
- 1 L of water
- 1 slice of cucumber.
- One sliced lemon.
- 1/2 Tsp minced ginger.
- 1/2 Tsp minced mint.
- 1/2 Tsp minced basil.
- Rock salt to taste.
Procedure:
Fill a jar or jug with these ingredients and infuse them overnight. Drink it as you like throughout the next day. Drink it on an empty stomach first thing in the morning for proper cleansing.
Vitamin C is essential to this process; add citric acid. The combination of cucumber and mint works remarkably to help you lose that extra pooch around your belly. Oranges, limes, and grapefruits are perfect for this drink. Additionally, Kiwi contains more vitamin C than most other citrus fruits and is rich in vitamin E and antioxidants; you can certainly add it to your detox regimen.
The Witty Stride 