Updated on: 22 November 2022, 18:26 pm IST

Stress is a health crisis people rarely realize or recognize. But the fact that mental health is included in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, points to the importance it holds in people’s overall well-being. Busy schedules, relationship problems, sedentary lifestyles, consumption of fast food, financial tensions and more – there are too many reasons for stress. But for the sake of your mental peace, you’ve got to find ways to de-stress. One effective and natural way to combat stress is by consuming tulsi which comes in the convenience of an infusion bag. Enjoy sipping on soothing Tulsi infusions to relax and unwind.

Lifestyle-related diseases are steadily on the rise, asserts Dr Sharwari Dabhade Dua, Consultant – Internal Medicine. These further lead to chronic diseases like diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and heart diseases. Stress can be a major trigger for these conditions too.

“Most of these conditions can either be controlled or even prevented to a large extent, if only one follows a healthy lifestyle,” says Dr Dua, while warning against consumption of processed and ultra processed food, excessive sugar, aerated drinks, alcohol or smoking.

Changes in diet, regular workout for at least 150 minutes a week or at least moderate activity of 30 minutes daily, can help people increase their endurance and help them combat lifestyle-related diseases.

If one goes by Ayurveda, an ancient and natural medicine system which has roots in India, food and herbs can work like magic to heal the mind and calm one’s nerves. One such herb is Tulsi.

It is popularly called the ‘queen of herbs’ for its multifarious health benefits which range from digestion and diabetes to stress, skin and more! Tulsi is consumed in various forms, but one of the most popular of them all is in the form of Tulsi infusions.

Who doesn’t like a ‘chai break’ to break free from mundane stress – be it to kickstart the day on a good note, to unwind early in the evening to feel rejuvenated or before hitting the bed to get a good night’s sleep? A warm cup of herbal tea, infused with ‘queen of herbs’ Tulsi, can be truly soothing for the mind. According to the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, the anxiolytic and antidepressant properties of Tulsi enable it to have a positive effect on psychological stress.

Benefits of tulsi

While Tulsi or holy basil has been recognized for its anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, metabolic, antioxidant and other medicinal properties, there is existing research about its effectiveness in treating a range of stressful conditions. In Ayurveda, Tulsi is considered as a preventive herb to enhance one’s adaptability to both psychological and physical stress. This helps it to avoid development of stress-related diseases, and therefore, Tulsi tea is highly recommended as a healthy lifestyle practice.

Multiple studies have reported reduction in anxiety and stress levels with consumption of Tulsi over a period of time. It is a mood-enhancing herb, and as per varied research, tulsi facilitates healthy levels of stress hormone cortisol.

The benefits of Tulsi get multiplied when it is consumed in its purest form – as organic, without the use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides or any other chemicals. Since organic tea is devoid of toxins and pesticide residue, it can cultivate a balance of good bacteria in the digestive tract. It is also good for weight-loss and to build immunity.

Types of tulsi tea or infusions for stress relief

Organic India, a brand synonymous with creating organic wellness products to promote conscious and healthy living, is a frontrunner in the herbal infusion tea market. A wide range of Tulsi infused teas, enriched by the power of other natural herbs and ingredients, make it a go-to choice for anyone looking to make life #BetterWithTulsi.

Be it Tulsi Original, Tulsi Green Tea Honey Lemon or Tulsi Mulethi, you can choose any of these relaxing, flavourful and restorative teas to get relief from stress.

In its purest form, dried Tulsi leaves infused with hot water, make a fragrant concoction which can soothe and uplift your mood in no time. Soak in the aroma and savour the flavourful taste of this tea which can re-energize you from the stress of everyday life.

When it comes to additional ingredients with Tulsi tea or a variety that can score high on taste and health, you can rarely go wrong with Tulsi green tea with honey and lemon. This combination of zesty lemon and sweet honey, together with the benefits of green tea and Tulsi, are a treat as far as flavor is concerned. What’s more? They are great to boost immunity and an antidote to oxidants in the body. Have it hot or cold, however you prefer it!

Another combination that is a must-try is Tulsi Mulethi, which also promises to be a wonder tea for stress relief and to soothe senses. The flavours of Tulsi are enriched by the sweetness of mulethi, giving you a Tulsi tea to savour for your mind’s sake!

Now that you know about the stress-relieving benefits of Tulsi tea, go get your cuppa!

(Disclaimer: This article is sponsored by Organic India and meant for general awareness and educational purpose only)