"That which pacifies both Kapha and Vata, and destroys toxins, breathing problems, respiratory area heaviness and cough, and bad odors is Tulsi." -- Sushruta Samhita, ancient ayurvedic text

Tulsi is considered the premier divine small plant in ayurveda. Its very name, Ocimum sanctum or Holy Basil, testifies to its sacred nature. There are three types of tulsi mentioned in ayurvedic texts--Rama Tulsi, Shyama or Krishna Tulsi and Vana Tulsi. All three types of Tulsi have their uses in ayurveda.

Holy Basil leaves yield a yellow-green potent aromatic oil that is able to be easily absorbed by the body through the nostrils and through the skin. Tulsi is a stimulant that opens the micro-channels of the body and thereby improves intra-dermal circulation.

Specific Benefits of Tulsi Rasayana

Tulsi has antioxidant properties, and helps boost the body's ability to fight off damaging free radicals, which have been linked to disease and aging.

It is an adaptogen that helps the body fight the effects of ongoing stress and also balances the mind, nerves and emotions.

Tulsi maintains the health of the throat chest and lungs. In fact, it helps protect the entire respiratory tract.

It is an anti-inflammatory.

Tulsi helps protect the physiology from garavisha--environmental toxins and pollution. It helps purify the atmosphere. Tulsi is also a skin rasayana.

With vitamin C, carotene, calcium and phosphorus, Tulsi helps skin stay healthy and supple.

Tulsi also helps maintain the digestive agni (fire).

Tulsi can be taken internally as a supplement or the oil of tulsi can be applied topically.

How Tulsi Rasayana Works Topically to Enhance Natural Immunity

When Shleshaka Kapha, the subdosha of Kapha that governs mucus balance in the physiology, increases or becomes aggravated, the fire element (Bhrajaka Pitta) and the circulation element (Vyana Vata) in the physiology are doused, and this tends to increase the level of ama (toxins) in the body. This, in turn, leads to the immune system getting depressed.

Tulsi Rasayana acts to pacify or decrease Shleshaka Kapha. The channels open, ama is cleared out of the body and the body's agni--the fire element in the physiology--becomes strong again. Balance is restored among the three subdoshas, and the immune system is restored to a healthy state.

To use Tulsi transdermally, add three drops of Tulsi essential oil to an ounce of base oil such as sesame or jojoba. Apply a small amount to center of palms and soles twice a day.

Essential oil of Tulsi can also be diffused through an aroma diffuser or added to hot water for steam therapy.

Note: Essential oils are potent and best used under the guidance of an aromatherapist. Exercise care during blending and use. Never apply essential oils straight to the skin and always test for sensitivity before use. Do not use if you are pregnant or nursing.