As we do our best to navigate through this stressful time, it is super important to remember to gently care for our mental health. It’s useful to acknowledge that change in itself is stressful, and it can take a toll on us. Being adaptable to changing times is key, and fortunately there are plants that can support us to do this better; one of these is Tulsi (Holy Basil).
Tulsi is a powerful adaptogen – an agent that helps the body adapt more efficiently to stress and promotes homeostasis. Adaptogens reduce the intensity and negative impact of the stress caused by mental tension, emotional difficulties, poor lifestyle habits, disease, infection, pollution, and change….just some of the stressors we might associate with a global pandemic!
Regular consumption of adaptogens such as Tulsi can enhance your capacity to maintain balance (mind, body and spirit) in the midst of stressful times. Here are six ways Tulsi is great for supporting our mental health right now:
- Calms anxiety
The psychotherapeutic properties of Tulsi have been tested in human studies and found to have the ability to relax and calm the mind; to reduce anxiety in humans.
- Anti-depressant
In human studies, Tulsi has been observed to reduce depression and has been described as useful for lifting the cloud of minor depression.
- Promotes mental clarity
Like yoga, Tulsi has a calming effect that leads to clarity of thought. It is also said to impart the quality of lightness and spiritual clarity.
- Lowers cortisol
Studies have found that Tulsi can lower cortisol (a stress hormone) concentration and help maintain more healthy, normal levels.
- Mood-enhancing
Tulsi is renowned for its ability to promote a more relaxed and calm disposition.
- Builds resilience
Ayurvedic practitioners recommend regular consumption of Tulsi Tea as a great preventative measure to enhance the ability to adapt to stress over time.
Having Tulsi as a herbal tea infusion is an easy and delicious way to incorporate a little Tulsi magic into your daily life. A cup or two (or three!) every day all year round is a wonderful way to support and enhance our ability to remain calm and resilient so we all come out the other side stronger.
References:
Cohen M.M. (2014) Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum L.): A herb for all reasons. Journal of Ayurveda & Integrative Medicine
Gholap S, Kar A. Hypoglycaemic effects of some plant corticosteroid concentration. Pharmazie 2004; 59:876-8
