Holy Basil

Tulesi (misspell as Tulsi) or Holy Basil is a bushy plant and grows up to the height of 4 to 6 feet. Its botanical name is Ocymum sanctum. The Tulasi is considered extremely sacred by the Hindus.

There are three varieties of this plant, Krsna Tulasi, Rama Tulasi, and Sri Tulasi. As per another classification, there are six varieties: Bilvagandha Tulasi, Krsna Tulasi, Ksudrapatra Tulasi, Rakta Tulasi, Sri Tulasi, and Varvari Tulasi.

Tulasi is said to have been born out of the tears of Visnu at the time of the emergence of the amrtakalasa (pot of nectar) from the ocean.

Tulasi manages various ailments like headache, malarial fever, common cold, kidney stones, heart diseases, and stomach disorders, lowers blood pressure, and lowers cholesterol. There are no side effects and this plant also protects against mosquitoes, insects and flies. Tulasi leaves as also the juice extracted out of them have many curative properties as it relaxes the mind, improve memory and reduce stress.

The Tulasi leaves are extensively used in the ritualistic worship of Visnu and other deities associated with Visnu. The dried wood of the plant is shaped into beads and rosaries are prepared out of them to be used in Japa (repetition of the divine name).

The dried sticks of this plant are also used in homes (fire-sacrifices). While cremating a dead body, a few dried pieces of Tulasi are also used along with the fuel. It is believed that the soul of the deceased attains Moksha by this act.

Almost every Hindu house has a Tulasi plant. It is worshipped daily by married women and unmarried girls.