Basil

(S) Tulsi

Part Used: herb

Energetics: pungent/heating/pungent VK- P+ (in excess)

Tissues: plasma, blood, marrow and nerves, reproductive

Systems: respiratory, nervous, digestive

Properties: diaphoretic, febrifuge, nervine, antispasmodic, antibacterial, antiseptic.

Actions: colds, cough, sinus congestion, headaches, arthritis, rheumatism, fevers (generally), abdominal distention

Precautions: high Pitta

Preparation: infusion, powder (250 mg to 1 g), juice, medicated ghee.

Next to the Lotus, BASIL is perhaps the most sacred plant of India. Its quality is pure Sativa. Basil opens the heart and mind, bestowing the energy of love and devotion (bhakti). Sacred to Vishnu and Krishna, it strengthens faith, compassion and clarity. Tulsi stems are worn as rosaries and promote the energy of attachment. Basil gives the protection of the divine by clearing the aura and strengthening the immune system. It contains natural mercury, which, as the semen of Shiva, gives the seed-power of pure awareness.

A plant of basil should be kept in every house for its purifying influence. Basil absorbs positive ions, energizes negative ions, and liberates ozone from the suns rays.

Basil is an effective diaphoretic and febrifuge in most colds, flus and lung problems. It removes excess Kapha from the lungs and nasal pas. sages, increasing Prana and promoting sensory acuity. It also removes high Vata from the colon, improves absorption and strengthens the nerve tissue, increasing memory. Basil may be taken as a beverage with honey for promoting clarity of mind.

The fresh leaf juice is used externally for fungal infections on the skin.