Tulsi in Sanskrit means "the incomparable one", and rightly so! Tulsi, also known as Holy Basil stands out from other herbs mainly because of the number of benefits it offers. You'll be surprised to know that this miracle plant is not only good for our health but also for the health of our skin and hair. Owing to its healing, antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, tulsi benefits the skin by preventing blackheads, acne and relieves skin infections, to name a few. Rich in vitamin K and antioxidants, tulsi benefits hair by stimulating blood circulation and promoting hair growth amongst others. Packed with vitamins, minerals, electrolytes and phytonutrients, Tulsi is the hero ingredient for healthy hair and skin . Tulsi does a lot more than just adding aroma and flavor to your tea and curries. Even when it comes to your beauty routine, tulsi benefits are aplenty. From curing a cold and heart disease to exfoliating skin and treating dandruff, tulsi is your magical herb that never disappoints! Tulsi is big in the world of Ayurveda. In Ayurvedic practice, the common uses of tulsi include treatments for headaches, asthma, cold, congestion, joint pain and skin diseases, to name a few. In fact, Ayurveda recommends tulsi to regulate uric acid levels in the body as well as to soothe inflammation. And that's not all! Its adaptogenic properties actually increase the body's ability to resist stress. And, who doesn't want to lead a stress-free life? Therefore, we've got you a lowdown on the uses of tulsi and its effectiveness in your regular beauty routine. Here's why you need to start including tulsi in your daily skincare routine.
01Deep-cleans the skin
Environmental factors such as pollution, heat, dust and grime as well as loading up on beauty products on a daily basis can take a serious toll on the health of your skin. And, when you don't give your skin extra care and attention by cleansing it twice a day or you carelessly sleep with your makeup on, it adds up to your skin woes, clogging pores and giving birth to a number of other skin-related issues such as acne and pimples. Tulsi benefits the skin by providing it with a deep-cleansing effect. It not only thoroughly removes dirt and impurities but also the excess oil. If you have oily skin, then this aromatic herb is your best bet. Take a handful of tulsi leaves, crush them and add some water to make a paste. Combine an egg white to the paste and apply the mixture all over your face. Let the paste sit on your face for about 10-15 minutes before rinsing. Use this remedy twice a week for clean, clear and glowing skin.
02Treats acne
Acne is one of the most common skin concerns amongst women today. If you have oily or sensitive skin, then protecting it from acne can be a big challenge. The antifungal, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties of tulsi helps purify the blood and remove toxins and bacteria from the skin. Being astringent in nature, tulsi benefits skin by soaking up the excess oil and moisture and drying up the existing acne. Prepare a simple face pack at home by mixing together one tablespoon of tulsi leaves, one teaspoon of sandalwood powder and a few drops of rose water. Apply the pack on your face and leave it on until it dries completely. Rinse with cool water. Repeat this at least two to three times a week for effective results.
03Prevents early signs of ageing
Over-exposure to the sun is the number one cause for accelerating the ageing process. When the skin's natural oils get washed out, the skin tends to lose elasticity and fine lines and wrinkles start to appear. But, Did you know that tulsi benefits the skin by reversing the effects of premature ageing? Yes, you read that right. Tulsi neutralizes free radicals and rejuvenates the skin, reviving the youthful glow. All you need to do is boil a few tulsi leaves in water and consume every morning. Or, you can crush the leaves once the water cools down and have it to get the same result.
04Lightens skin tone
Overproduction of melanin, pollution and the harsh UV rays are the main causes of uneven skin tone or hyperpigmentation. But, the good news is that tulsi can effectively lighten your skin tone. Its detoxifying effects gives relief from pollution, heat, stress as well as certain skin conditions. Tulsi contains essential oils which help nourish and moisturize the skin and improve the skin complexion. To prepare a mask, mix together some tulsi leaves, gram flour and water. Apply the mixture all over your face and allow it to dry completely. Rinse with cool water. Repeat this regularly for effective results. Here's why you need to start including tulsi in your daily hair care routine.
05Prevents hair loss
A lot of factors lead to thinning hair or hair loss. From genes to medication and infection, hair loss is a common phenomenon amongst both men and women. If you've been struggling with this condition, then here's an herbal treatment that is sure to help you prevent hair loss. Tulsi is considered to be a major ingredient in herbal hair loss treatments. Mix a handful of crushed tulsi leaves with your regular hair oil. Massage the oil into your scalp and leave it on for about 30 minutes. Follow it up with shampoo and conditioner. Tulsi benefits hair by rejuvenating the hair follicles and strengthening the roots, which in turn curbs hair loss. And that's not all! This herbal treatment also promotes circulation in your scalp and keeps it cool.
06Banishes dandruff
Treating dandruff is one of the biggest challenges when it comes to hair care. Dandruff causes the skin on the scalp to flake. Factors such as irritated, oily skin, sensitivity to hair care products and not shampooing enough can be some of the main causes of dandruff. If all your treatments for dandruff have failed, tulsi has got your back! Tulsi benefits hair by controlling four types of fungal strains that may cause dandruff. Simply add a small amount of tulsi oil to your regular oil, massage it into your scalp before going for a hair wash. This little trick will not only reduce dandruff and scalp itchiness but also leave you with smooth, shiny tresses.
07No more premature greying
Spotting grey strands in your late 20s or early 30s can be an intimidating sight. However, premature greying of hair is becoming as common as cough and cold. So, what exactly causes your hair to start greying at an early age, you ask? When the cells at the hair roots stop producing the pigment which is responsible to give our hair its colour, your hair starts greying prematurely. In some cases, premature greying is also due to lack of vitamin B12. Mix together amla and tulsi powder and soak it in water overnight. Wash your hair with the mixture the next morning. Repeating this treatment once a week can prove to be effective.
08Treats hair fall
Apart from environmental factors such as heat, dust and pollution, it is also the everyday habits such as over-use of heat-styling tools, brushing wet hair vigorously and washing hair with hot water that cause hair fall. While losing a few strands of hair every single day is common, drastic hair fall is a concern that needs immediate treatment. Well, you can rely on this herbal treatment for hair fall. Prepare a paste by mixing equal quantity of amla and tulsi powder and one teaspoon of coconut oil. Add some water to make a smooth paste and apply it to your hair. Leave it on for 30 minutes before washing off. Repeat this at-home treatment regularly to see noticeable results.
