Tulsi, or Holy Basil, (Ocimum tenuiflorum) has been used for centuries in India, East Asia, Australia and the surrounding tropics. Ayurvedic medicine practitioners have been using the leaves and
signature purple flowers as a staple of the holistic approach to health and wellness through food and fresh medicines. Tulsi, an aromatic herb/shrub of the basil family is known within Ayurveda as 'The Incomparable One,' 'The Queen of Herbs,' and 'Mother Medicine of Nature' becuase of its medicinal and spritual properties. Additionally, the medicinal properties of tulsi have been studied in hundreds of scientific studies showing powerful benefits including: anti-microbial, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, anti-diarrheal, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory peroperties. It has been show to enhance memory, reduce stress and blood clots, lower blood pressure, support cardiac health, and improve blood sugar regulation. Many of these benefits stem from tulsi's ability to protect the body from toxin-induced damage through it's anti-oxidant properties. Like most plants, the purple/black varieties of tulsi have higher phenolic compounds (increasing their anti-oxidant properties) compared to the white varieties.
Tulsi grows well in warm climates and is a perennial herb in southern parts of the United States and those in zone 9 or above. But, like sweet genovese basil, it is a quick-growing herb and can be grown in summer months in other parts of the country. Like most herbs, Tulsi needs 6-8 hours of sunlight per day and benefits from afternoon shade in very hot parts of the country. As a perennial, tulsi can grow to 4-5 feet tall and is considered a shrub in India. In colder climates where it doesn't overwinter, you can expect your tulsi to grow up to 2 feet in one season. Find a well-draining spot for your tulsi and keep it well-fed for the best growth.
Consecutive harvesting of this plant is ideal for the most production, but the bees will appreciate letting the plant go to flower in the late summer/fall so they can enjoy the nectar and nutrition for their winter honey stores. Enjoy!
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