Tulsi plant is considered to be a sacred plant due to its mythological, religious and as well as the scientific significance being attached to it. In English language tulsi is known as the Holy Basil. In the Indian mythology and great scripture like Puranas and Gita, there have been many instances shown where tulsi tree had been associated with many Gods and Goddesses. In fact there are mythological stories that referred to Tulsi as one of the ‘Gopi’ who was in deep love with Lord Krishna. Likewise there are many other stories. In our ancient Sanskrit language, Tulsi means ‘the one who is incomparable’. It is also known as with other names in India such as ‘Vrindadevi’ means the Princess of Vrindavan. There are supposed to be two major types of Tulsi plant commonly found in India; one is ‘Shyama Tulsi’ (dark in color) second is ‘Rama Tulsi’ (lighter in color). Indian culture recommends the people to keep the Tulsi plant in the homes as it brings positivity and goodness. Since Tulsi plant is considered to be holy, it is worshipped in every Hindu religious home in India. Religious people use tulsi-made garlands to offer to the God. Besides all these religious significance of Tulsi, there are scientific importances as well. Tulsi/Basil plant is supposed to contain numerous of medicinal properties which are enough to fight many bacterial and virus infections of the body such as cold, cough, stomach disorders, inflammation, headaches and skin allergies too. Many people use tulsi leaves in tea making since they leave an aromatic flavor and make the tea truly herbal and beneficial. Mothers should give at least 2-3 tulsi leaves to their young children to eat, they can also make use of Tulsi Pani prepared by boiling its leaves into water. Tulsi is immensely an amazing plant whose significance is well apprehended in the Indian culture.
