Tulsi Mala: A mine of Qualities
Tulsi plant is extremely sacred and important from many view- points. It protects and nurtures us in every possible way just like a mother. Tulsi leaves are used in every good act by the Hindus, especially in offering Naivedya (the pious food) to the Lord. Tulsi plants ensure the purity and piety of the air around.
A special oil present in the beads of Tulsi helps clean the air off microbes.
The Tulsi-scented air destroys the pathogens of Malaria. A special alkali present in Tulsi eliminates bad smell. One suffering from bad breath should consume Tulsi leaves regularly to get rid of halitosis.
Many Names of Tulsi
Various names of Tulsi: Its botanical name is Ocimum sanctum.
Tulsi has been glorified with pious names like 'Vishnupriya' (It is dear to Lord Vishnu), 'Surasa' (that bears the best sap), 'Sulabha' (that is easily available), 'Bahumanjari' (that bears numerous flower stalks), 'Gramya' (that is found more in villages and most households), 'Apetarakshashi' (that wards off all demons and demon-like sins just upon seeing it), 'Shulaghni' (that destroys pains and diseases), 'Devadundubhi' (that brings joy to the deities), etc.
Main varieties of Tulsi:
(1) Raama Tulsi, Ocimum gratissimum (with green leaves)
(2) Krishna Tulsi, ocimum tenuiflorum (with dark leaves). Often the dark variety is used for medicinal purposes.
Properties of Tulsi:
According to Ayurveda, Tulsi is bitter, pungent and hot. It alleviates Kapha and Vata, destroys parasites and bad smells; it stimulates the digestive fire, purifies blood, stimulates the heart, and increases Pitta.
Tulsi is a surefire remedy for numerous diseases. The 'Padma Purana' delineates that "In the cure of diseases, half leaf of Tulsi plant will be held equal to all other flowers and leaves in the three worlds."
