One of my all time favorite herbs is tulsi, also known as holy basil or sacred basil.  This species of basil has origins in India.  It smells divine and tastes lovely.  There are many varieties of holy basil that can all be used interchangeably.  Their tastes vary from earthy to sweet.  Tulsi is an adaptogenic herb with an affinity for the nervous system.

This is part 5 in the "Back to School Time" series.  Adaptogens are herbs that help normalize and moderate body functions.  They help bring our body toward a healthy state of homeostasis.  g our body toward a healthy state of homeostasis.  

We began this series talking about Astragalus, which is an adaptogen that has an affinity for immune health.  Adaptogens are also known to be herbs that aid our ability to handle stressors and to be more resilient in the face of change.

We will end this series with tulsi, an adaptogen that is most known for its affinity with the nervous system.  Tulsi also benefits immune health.  In India, many people grow tulsi plants in pots near the entries to homes and temples.  The tradition is to eat a leaf a day to support health.  

Tulsi has a long tradition of use in sacred ceremony and in helping to create or establish sacred space.  I believe this, in part, is tied to the divine scent that this plant offers.  

Tulsi is often known to help quiet the mind and soothe the soul.  It is helpful in grounding the mind for meditative practice and is known to help "open the third eye".

When I feel stressed or like I have the potential to become overwhelmed, I make tulsi tea.  I find it to be soothing and grounding, allowing me to go through my day without freaking out.  Not to mention, it tastes and smells delicious. The act of sipping and smelling the warm tea makes me feel better, grounded, and able to take a deep breath.

Tulsi tea is easy to find in most health food stores.  You can find it in tea bags or in the bulk herb section.  It can also be found as a tincture or glycerite, for easy administering.

Tulsi Tea

Ingredients:

Tulsi tea bag
-or-
Bulk cut tulsi leaf and a tea ball strainer

Boiling hot water

Your favorite mug

Directions:

1. place the tea bag in your favorite mug
-or-
place 1 tsp of cut dried tulsi per cup of water in your favorite mug

2. pour boiling water to fill the mug

3. cover with a small plate to hold in the scent, flavor, and heat

4. steep for 10-20 minutes

5. honey can be added to sweeten if desired

5. sip slowly and breathe deeply