Curing headache without a pill? Yes, itâ€™s possible with this Queen of Herbs.

mishmi nandi 03-Jun-2016 Image Source

Even today, old folks in our households can be seen either using or recommending some herbs, plants or spices as home remedies for illness, major or minor, ranging from headache, common- cold, to a worrisome, rising blood sugar. The common refrain is that, using natural herbs boosts body’s immune system thereby helping us to combat various major or minor illness.

Looking around, we may find scores of home remedies made from regular ingredients like turmeric, fenugreek and mustard seeds, various oils, condiments and common plants. Here comes the importance of tulsi.

1. All we need to do is have an open mind

In India, the Tulsi( holy basil) is not only known for its traditional and religious values but also for its healing properties. There are two varieties commonly seen, the pure green variety and the bluish-purplish one. While the former is mild yet fragrant the latter is stronger in flavour and aroma. It has been scientifically explained that tulsi has â€˜adaptogenicâ€™ properties that can carry out the function of helping the body adapt to physical and mental stress.

2. Chewing of tulsi leaves clears mucous in the chest

The little kid in the house who has any symptom of cold and flu can thus be spared from bitter pills or even injections. Chewing on the leaves also relieves mouth ulcer. Gargling with plain tulsi-boiled water or sipping on the same, relieves a hurting throat.

3. Sip on tulsi tea during the rainy season

Boil tulsi leaves with a little bit of tea and sip on the concoction (sugar and milk could be added, if required). The benefits are amazing, as having this mixture in a variety of ways can save us from many deadly diseases.

4. Adding ginger and honey to tulsi-tea

Instead of sugar, protects our system from any illness that mosquitoes transmit, including malaria and dengue fevers. This option also aids in the healing of any bronchial infection in the lungs and allergic coughs that finally lead to asthma if not detected and treated on time. The tulsi plant has an inherent substance that modifies our bodyâ€™s immune response in a way that helps prevent the bodyâ€™s allergic reactions. So use tulsi to boost resistance to allergies. Cloves can also aid the general effectiveness of the body to combat diseases. We may even add cloves and salt to the water while boiling tulsi to aid in the healing of influenza. Tulsi juice can safely be given to infants when suffering from sudden high fever. It can be used to cure pimples and any skin-related problems.

The holy basil is also known to cleanse the blood of cholesterol, flush out kidney stones (when taken in juice form with honey over a span of six months), give relief from insect bites or poisoning, cure stomach-related ailments, act as a general de-toxin agent, provide relief from toothaches and gum diseases, act as a memory enhancing tonic and an eye tonic.