Tulsi (Holy Basil)
Tulsi, also called holy basil, is an aromatic leaf with a warm, slightly peppery herbal character. It has a long place in South Asian food and herbal traditions, including simple leaf infusions.
Brew it alone to taste the leaf, or blend it with ginger, cinnamon, mint or citrus peel. The historical traditions are background information about the plant, not a claim that this particular product treats a condition.
How to brew
- Tea: 2 g of dry tea per 8 fl oz (240 ml) of water
- Water temperature: 212°F (100°C)
- Steep time: 5–7 minutes, then strain or remove the tea bag.
- Cups per ounce: Approximately 14 cups per ounce (28.35 g), using 2 g per 8-fl-oz cup. This estimate counts the first infusion only.
Start with this guide and adjust to taste. A larger mug or stronger brew uses more tea and makes fewer cups per ounce.
Recipe to try
Melon & Lime Coconut Tea Latte with Tulsi (Holy Basil)
Serves: 2
Ingredients
- 2 g Tulsi (Holy Basil)
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup ripe cantaloupe, peeled, seeded and diced
- 1 teaspoon finely grated lime zest
- 1 cup unsweetened coconut beverage
- 2 teaspoons Lemon Sugar
Method
- Heat 1 cup water to 212°F. Steep the Tulsi (Holy Basil) for 5–7 minutes, then strain or remove the tea bag.
- Blend the fruit with the unsweetened coconut beverage until smooth. Warm gently in a saucepan, stirring; do not bring to a rolling boil.
- Stir the sugar and lime zest into the strained tea. Divide between two mugs, pour in the warm fruit milk and whisk briefly to combine.
Further reading
For independent information about botanicals and their safety, see the NIH Herbs at a Glance directory. Research on other preparations does not establish an effect for this product.
Product and wellness information
Information on this page, including references to traditional uses of herbs, is provided for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Our products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or replace professional medical care. Review each product’s ingredients and directions before use, including any “external use only” instructions. If you are pregnant or nursing, take medication, have a medical condition, or are selecting an herbal product for a child, consult a qualified healthcare professional before use.