The concept of detoxifying the body has become popular in the modern era. But if we take a closer look, we’ll find that Ayurvedic vaidyas have been touting the benefits detoxification for thousands of years. Unlike modern detoxification goals, however, when using Ayurveda for detox , you are not limited to the digestive system and body — to function smoothly, effectively, and without impairment, the body, mind, and spirit must all be in harmony. Ama , Agni and Detoxification If we look at digestion through an Ayurvedic lens, we would understand that finding balance through the right kinds of foods, a centered lifestyle, and de-stressing techniques would all contribute to good health. The Sanskrit word for this harmonious state is Agni , the first word written in the Vedas. Its antithesis is Ama , which points to a toxic buildup. Ama results not only from dietary issues, but also from emotional, mental, and spiritual imbalances. Fortunately, Ayurveda has a prescription that has
Tulsi
(ocimum sanctum), which is often referred to as holy basil, is a potent
herb that has been used in India for thousands of years to treat colds,
coughs, and the flu. According to Ayurveda, holy basil promotes purity
and lightness in the body, cleansing the respiratory tract of toxins,
and relieving digestive gas and bloating. Holy basil leaves offer a rich
source of essential oil, containing eugenol, nerol, camphor, and a
variety of terpenes and flavonoids. The oil is a strong antiseptic
against many kinds of disease-causing organisms, including bacteria,
fungi, and parasites.
As the name would imply, holy basil has spiritual as well as
medicinal significance in Ayurveda. In Hindu mythology, the plant is an
incarnation of the goddess Tulsi, offering divine protection. Many
Indian families keep a living holy basil plant in their homes, and tend
to it with great care and reverence. The plant’s woody stalks are often
made into beads used in meditation malas or rosaries.
Although basil is found on every continent, holy basil is indigenous
to the Indian subcontinent. It is a bushy shrub that grows to about 18
inches in height. Its leaves are oval and serrated, with colors ranging
from light green to dark purple, depending on the variety. In the wild,
holy basil is an annual, but it can be kept as a perennial by trimming
it before it forms seeds. The plant has delicate lavender-colored
flowers, and its fruit consists of tiny rust-colored nuts.
The Potential Health Benefits of Holy Basil
Holy basil’s oil has antioxidant properties that help reduce the
damaging effects of stress and aging on the body. Studies have shown
that it protects healthy cells from the toxicity of radiation and chemotherapy. Holy basil also has anti-depression properties. Additionally, it has been shown to help people with:
- Acne
- Asthma
- Fever
- Headache
- Heart disease
- Inflammation
- Kidney Stones
- Lung disorders
- Respiratory disorders
Holy Basil and the Doshas
Holy basil carries the bitter, pungent, and astringent tastes, and
generates a warming influence on the physiology. The herb is
predominantly Kapha-reducing, but it can also be used to pacify Vata and
Pitta. It can, however, have a mildly Pitta-aggravating effect in
people who are severely overheated.
How to Use Holy Basil
Use holy basil freely in your cooking and in making freshly brewed
tea. If you’re making tea, simply cover 2 teaspoons of fresh holy basil
with 1 cup of boiling water, and let it steep for about 5 minutes.
Strain the leaves before drinking.
To benefit from the health-promoting effects, nibble on a few leaves
every day. If you’re taking holy basil for stress relief, try growing
your own plant from seeds or cuttings (directions on how to grow your
own plant are below).
You can also take holy basil in capsule or tablet form. Dosages will
depend on your particular health concern. Talk to your health care
practitioner to determine what dosage would be best for you.
Precaution: Some research
suggests that holy basil might have a mild anti-fertility effect, but
this type of practice has been limited to rural areas of India. If you
are pregnant or are trying to become pregnant, talk to your health care
practitioner before taking medicinal doses of holy basil.
How to Grow Your Own Holy Basil Plant
Place the seeds between warm, moist paper towels for a day, and then
plant them a half-inch below the surface in rich potting soil.
A sprout will start to break through in 10 days. Once the plant
reaches a height of about 12 inches, you can 1) pinch back any flowers
to keep it from going to seed; or 2) allow the plant to seed and start a
new generation.
Holy basil prefers full sunlight and plenty of water.
By: Melissa Eisler https://chopra.com/articles/what-is-holy-basil
Get Himalaya Holy basil capsules from iHerb
Get Simply Organic basil from iHerb
Get Himalaya Holy basil capsules from iHerb
Get Simply Organic basil from iHerb
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