Basil Plant - Holy Basil

Holy basil (not to be confused with sweet basil) has an erect habit with purple stems and green, fragrant leaves with small pink / purple flowers.

Also known as Thai Holy Basil, Tulasi or Tulsi.

Native to India / East Asia.

A herb that is sacred within the Hindu religion. It is believed that the petals mixed with water and given to the dying raises their departing souls to heaven. Holy Basil or Tulsi as it is commonly known are often found planted in courtyards of Hindu houses and used to cleanse the body and has been used throughout history as a medicinal herb.

This plant, known as Tulasi is refered to as the 'elixir of life' in Ayurveda and is used for balancing body processes and helping people to cope with stress and therefore promote longevity along with many other medicinal uses.

Commonly used in Thai cooking.

• Short lived perennial.
• Requires frost protection.
• Reaches 12 - 24" (30 - 60 cm) tall.
  
  
• Culinary Uses.
• To make tea.
• Used in Thai cooking to make dishes such as phat kaphrao or khao phat kraphao.
  
  
• Medicinal Uses.
• To help deal with stress.
• Used to treat coughs and colds.
• Can help to relieve hepatic dsyfunction and eczema.
• Used to relieve nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and flatulence.
• Can ease peptic ulcers.
  
  
• Other Uses.
• Dried leaves are used to repel insects.
• The wood from stems are used to make beads.

Please note that whilst we believe we have quoted correct information on this page we do not follow the Hindu religion.
Disclaimer
As with all alternative medicines and plants with purported medicinal benefits it is important to inform your health care providers that you are using them; this helps to ensure safe and coordinated care. We can accept no liability for any side effect or contingency from any allergy or any other cause or harm that may arise. If in doubt please do consult a medical practitioner before using.