Tulsi or Ocimum sanctum is an annual plant which is generally found in the Indian sub-continent. It is regarded as one of the most sacred plants in India and is found in many Indian households. Almost all parts of tulsi plant can be consumed which includes leaves, flowers, seeds and bark. While there are many therapeutic benefits attributed to tulsi, some of the major benefits include those of a digestion aid and immune booster. Tulsi Plant Quick facts about Tulsi orOcimum santcum Nomenclature *.Common name: Holy Basil, Sacred Basil *.Sanskrit name: Tulasi *.Hindi name: tulsi *.Scientific name: Ocimum sanctum and Ocimum tenuiflorum *.Sub-categories –KrishnaTulasi, Shri Tulasi, Vana Tulasi Bio-energetics *.Rasa– Katu (sharp), Tikta (bitter) *.Virya –Ushna (hot) *.Vipak –Katu (sharp) *.Doshas– Kapha, Pitta and Vata, though it’s main focus is on Kapha Habitat Tulsi plant can be found all overIndiaranging from the foot hills of theHimalayasin the north to the tropics in the south till Kanya Kumari. The plant generally grows in moist soil. It reaches a height of about 1½ feet. Tulsi belongs to the family of Lamiceae or the mint plants category. Chemical constituents or active compounds Tulsi contains chemical compounds such as eugenol, ursolic acid, rosmarinic acid, chlorophyll, caryophyllene, oleanolic acid and linolenic acid. Nutritional compounds found in tulsi include vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, iron and zinc. Health benefits Scientific research in the recent times has shed light on the therapeutic benefits of tulsi. Consuming tulsi regularly could impart several benefits such as following. *.Boosts the immune systemwith its antimicrobial properties and fights against fevers, cough and cold. *.Possesses anti-diabetic properties. It also helps in arresting blood cholesterol levels. *.Protects your eyesagainst ocular diseases such as cataract, macular degeneration, glaucoma and opthalmia. *.A verygood home remedy for respiratoryand lung diseases such as asthma and bronchitis. *.Provides easy oral and dental caredue to its antibacterial properties. *.A good source of antioxidantswhich check the development of free radicals. *.Veryeffective insect repellentwith larvicidal properties against several insects.