Tulsi

STAR POWER: Tulsi comes in three varieties, but the shyam tulsi is the most nutritive. It is useful, for all upper respiratory disorders from sinusitis, cough, cold, asthma and allergy to pneumonia. This is because it is drying, is a powerful antiseptic and anti-malarial agent and also clears the channels (srotas) to facilitate the movement of bio fluids. Tulsi has vitamins A and C and calcium, zinc and iron. It is an excellent adaptogen, which means it helps the body to adapt to tissue stress. When tissues are stressed, they break down or repair slowly, which results in ageing.

PRACTICAL CONSUMPTION: Boil water with seven tulsi leaves till the water turns dark, add a pinch of cinnamon powder and drink it early in the morning on an empty stomach.

PRECAUTIONS: An overdose of tulsi has a contraceptive effect.