Nymph and Woodsman Wellness--Get Clear, Calm, and Bright with Tulsi
It’s high summer and I can’t get enough Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), otherwise known as Holy Basil. Tulsi is one of Ayurvedic Medicine’s most sacred plants, and the more I work with it, the more I understand why. This bright-flavored herb with pretty pinkish flowers is a member of the mint family. And, like most members of the mint family, it is rich in pungent oils that deliver healing goodness simply by smelling and tasting delicious—sweet and peppery, earthy and bright all at once.
Relaxation. Digestion. Respiration. Immunity. Blood Sugar Balance.
These pungent oils also have a strong affinity for the nervous, upper respiratory, immune, and digestive systems, so it’s a great herb to keep around for just about any internal ailment that arises. According to Sajah Popham of the School for Evolutionary Herbalism, it also can help keep blood sugar levels down by increasing insulin sensitivity on cell receptors. If you’ve been told you’re “pre-diabetic” or are struggling with your blood sugar levels, I highly recommend integrating tulsi into your daily routine.
And that’s not the only reason to sip on tulsi tea or make a tulsi spritzer every day! It’s also known as an adaptogen. All the rage these days, adaptogens are herbs that help your body deal with daily stressors. Tulsi can help broaden our “window of tolerance” for difficult emotions and sensations and support us in staying grounded when we’re overstimulated and frazzled.
Bright, Clear, and Expansive Mind
Tulsi has also traditionally been used as an elixir to support a clear and expansive mind in preparation for meditation. I want a clear mind all the time, personally, and Popham says that tulsi’s actions on the digestive system and liver make it helpful in cutting through brain fog, as well. He also suggests that folks who struggle with melancholy or the slump that can come with too much cannabis use may feel uplifted by tulsi’s love.
Tulsi is one of the few herbs that we do not wildcraft, as it does not grow wild in these parts. We get organic tulsi from our dear neighbor-friends down the road at Still Moon Farm and make tincture out of it. When it’s cold outside I add the tincture to hot water for instant tea, but this time of year I like it best in a tall glass of sparkle water. I can feel my whole body relax and brighten more with each sip.
If you’d like to work with Tulsi (and why wouldn’t you!?), try our Tulsi tincture for 20% off through Sunday, August 20th! Your frayed nerves, your big spirit, your liver, your sinuses, your immune system, your belly, and your tastebuds will thank you! Use code TULSI at checkout.
You can also find Tulsi in our Mellow Mood Calming Blend, Dragon Tamer Mouthwash, and Root of Wellness Bitters.
May you feel calm, bright, and at ease!
xoxo Becca
Disclaimer: For educational purposes only. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
