TULSI

Tulsi, also spelled Tulasi and referred to as Holy Basil, is an aromatic plant and, beyond its many culinary purposes, has particular spiritual relevance as well. Some Hindus consider a household incomplete without a Tulsi plant and still others provide structural spaces within the home especially for their Tulsi. In other spiritual practices, Tulsi is used to make necklaces.

Medicinally, Tulsi has been known to enhance digestion and intestinal health. The plant's extracts are also used in remedies for colds, headaches, stomach ailments, inflammation, heart disease, and malaria. Recent studies suggest that Tulsi may be effective as a painkiller and may help reduce glucose and cholesterol levels. It also has antioxidant properties.