Tulsi grows in abundance throughout Bengal.
One can spot small tulsi plants in almost every household here. Scientifically named ‘Ocimum basilicum',
Tulsi or Basil is also known as Mishti Tulsi, Babui Tulsi, and Dulal Tulsi.
This widely loved culinary herb belongs to the family Lamiaceae (mints).
Tulsi is cultivated in different parts of southwest Bengal, though it can also grow in the wilds.
Tulsi has gained its English name ‘Basil’ from the Latin word ‘Basilius’, meaning ‘royal’ or ‘kingly’.
This name has its probable roots in the history of Tulsi being used in the production of high-quality perfumes that smelled quite royal.
Tulsi is an erect branching herb, with the skin mostly smooth. Has long, oval, sharp, whole, slightly serrated, or lobed leaves with a cuneate base.
The sizes of these leaves range between 3 to 11 cm long. Tiny white-pink or purplish flowers bloom from the central inflorescence or spike, emerging from the central stem atop the plant. August to January is the season for flowering and fruiting in Tulsis.
Tulsi thrives on soil that is loamy or sandy, well-drained, and relatively rich.
If you are planning to rear a Tulsi plant by your own, avoid placing them in places with constant, heavy rain.
Although Tulsi was native to India, it is now cultivated globally due to increased demand.
Tulsi has an anti-bacterial quality that aids in cold relief.
It is well recognised to strengthen the immune system and ward against various illnesses.
Tulsi is quite helpful in defending our bodies against numerous infections and illnesses affecting the liver, skin, kidneys, and other organs.
It is one of the finest heart-healthy foods because it includes potent antioxidants that can help keep your blood pressure and cholesterol levels under control.
Due to its hypoglycaemic qualities, which are known to help lower blood sugar levels,
it is also beneficial for diabetes.
Tulsi is advised to be a part of your diabetic diet plan.
It has been aptly referred to as the "Queen of Herbs" due to the many health advantages it offers.
Tulsi has also been found to combat psychological stress by improving memory and cognitive function, as well as metabolic stress by normalisation of blood glucose, blood pressure, and lipid levels, as well as metabolic stress through its anxiolytic and antidepressant characteristics. While the leaves of tulsi can help treat ringworm and scorpion stings, the roots are used to treat bowel complaints in children. Even consuming Tulsi seeds can do wonders for patients with gonorrhea, diarrhea, chronic dysentery, sinuses, and internal piles.
