Holy Basil Leaf, Rama

Common Name

Standardized: holy basil
Other: sacred basil, tulsi

Botanical Name

Ocimum tenuiflorum L.
Plant Family: Lamiaceae

Overview

Holy Basil has been revered throughout India for thousands of years. Ayurvedic texts describe Holy Basil as a pillar of holistic herbal medicine and a goddess incarnated in plant form (the mother medicine of nature). Many traditional Hindus worship an alter bearing a Holy Basil plant that is placed in the courtyard of their home or in another prominent location. Today Holy Basil remains one of the most cherished of India's sacred plants. The leaves smell of peppermint, cloves, licorice and/or lemon. There are three types of Tulsi sold by Mountain Rose Herbs: Krishna, Rama, and Vana. All varieties belong to the mint family and are cousins of sweet basil.

Rama (Ocimum tenuiflorum) is known for its cooling and mellow flavor. The plant has green leaves, white-to-purplish blossoms, and a green or purplish stem. It is cultivated in the Indian plains, as well as private homes and gardens around India.

Typical Preparations

Holy Basil is traditionally taken as an herbal tea, dried powder, fresh leaf, or mixed with ghee.

Summary

Holy Basil, or Tulsi, is an important symbol in the Hindu religion and it is a significant herb in ayurvedic medicine.

Precautions

Specific: Not for use in pregnancy except under the supervision of a qualified healthcare practitioner.
General: We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.

For educational purposes only. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.