Tulsi 'Rama' (Ocimum sanctum)

Sacred and Healing Basil

Common Names: Tulsi 'Rama', Holy Basil, Green Leaf Tulsi, Sacred Basil
Family: Lamiaceae
Origin: India and Southeast Asia

Rama Tulsi, is one of the most revered herbs in Ayurvedic medicine and Indian culture. Known as the "Queen of Herbs," Tulsi is considered a sacred plant and is traditionally grown near homes and temples in India. Tulsi 'Rama' has green leaves with a distinctively sweet, aromatic fragrance and numerous health benefits, including stress relief, immune support, and respiratory wellness. It thrives in warm climates and is easy to grow, making it a popular choice for herb gardens, containers, and medicinal gardens.

Distinctive Features, Uses, and Medicinal Value

Leaves: Tulsi 'Rama' has bright green, slightly serrated leaves that emit a sweet, clove-like aroma. The leaves are rich in essential oils and antioxidants, which contribute to their medicinal properties. Tulsi's flavor is cooling and mellow, and bearing scents of peppermint, cloves, licorice and lemon. 

Flowers: The plant produces small purple or white flowers arranged in spikes, adding beauty to the garden while attracting pollinators.

Growth Habit: Tulsi 'Rama' is a fast-growing, perennial herb in tropical climates, but it is often grown as an annual in cooler regions. It typically grows up to 2-4 feet tall and wide, forming a bushy, aromatic plant.

Culinary and Medicinal Uses

Tulsi 'Rama' is highly valued for its medicinal benefits. It is widely used in Ayurvedic medicine to promote relaxation, support the immune system, and improve respiratory function. The leaves are often brewed into herbal teas, tinctures, or taken as supplements to relieve stress, reduce inflammation, and boost overall wellness. Tulsi is also used in cooking, particularly in soups, teas, and curries, though its primary value is as a medicinal herb.

Holy Basil works wonders for you in your garden as an excellent companion plant! It's strong aromatic oils including Eugenol, Oleanoic Acid, Ursolic Acid, Rosmarinic Acid, and Linalool help make it a natural pest repellent. These constituents within the plant also contribute to the plant's traditional known medicinal effects.