Holy basil or tulsi is rich in antioxidants and offers many health benefits. Find out the benefits of eating basil leaves on an empty stomach in this post.
A plant that is not grown so commonly, Holy basil or Ocimum tenuiflorum, has been used to treat various illnesses for the past five thousand years in the Indian subcontinent. Loaded with antioxidants and nutrients, this plant from the mint family has a plethora of health benefits and uses. After in-depth research, we’ve compiled a list of benefits of eating basil leaves on an empty stomach.
1. Fights Common Cold
The anti-microbial properties of holy basil relieve the symptoms of the common cold when consumed on an empty stomach. You can eat 3-4 leaves or add them to your morning tea. You can also soak the leaves overnight and drink the infused water in the morning for the best results.
2. Boosts Immunity
The antioxidant and anti-microbial properties of the plant help reduce the inflammation of the entire body. Vitamin A, magnesium, and other nutrients in the holy basil help facilitate blood flow and boosts the overall immunity of the body. Learn more on it here.
3. Soothes Indigestion
If you suffer from bloating, constipation, and indigestion, holy basil might be a beneficial addition for you in the morning. Consuming several leaves in the morning soothes the digestion track as it stimulates the production acids in the stomach that reduces gastric effects. The anti-inflammatory properties of the herb also reduce the chances of stomach ulcers.
4. Beneficial for Skin Health
Regular intake of tulsi helps the body detoxify and reduces the appearance of acne and pimples. The basil leaves also unclog the pores and hydrates the skin, resulting in glowing flawless skin. The antioxidants in the leaves also have anti-aging properties, making the consumption of leaves beneficial for youthful skin as well. Find some tulsi face mask recipes here.
5. Natural Mouth Freshener
The essential oils of the basil leaves naturally remove the oral plaque, and the anti-bacterial properties help keep the bad breath at bay as well. Eating 4-5 of basil leaves in the morning or any time of the day can provide you with instant freshness and energy.
6. Reduces Stress and Headaches
A recognized health booster in Ayurveda, holy basil is a known supplement to cure headaches and calm your senses to reduce stress levels. Rich in adaptogens, the consumption of tulsi leaves help reduce the stress levels in the body as it relaxes the nervous system and improves the blood flow.
You can make holy basil tea to get rid of headaches and stress. Take 3-4 fresh leaves in steep them in a cup of boiling water. You can also add a dap of honey for taste. Visit this website to learn more on it.
7. Helps in Weight Loss
Consuming a few leaves of the tulsi plant, on an empty stomach every morning boosts the metabolism and enables you to lose the belly fat faster. As basil aids digestion, it helps get rid of excess toxins in the body and helps losing weight more quickly.
8. Improves Eye Health
Tulsi leaves are full of antioxidants and anti-bacterial properties. Apart from this, the leaves are believed to have healing properties that work from the head to toes. These beneficial properties treat and prevent any damage caused to the eyes by free radicals or stress.
9. Prevents Hair Loss
As the consumption of holy basil leaves increases the blood circulation and hydration, your scalp gets healthier and stimulates hair growth as well. It supplies the hair follicles with beneficial nutrients and boosts the growth of healthier shinier hair.
Conclusion – Benefits of Eating Basil Leaves on an Empty Stomach
Taken in moderation, the wonder herb is a powerhouse of health benefits. So, enjoy a cup of fresh basil tea (with or without honey), infused water, or fresh leaves to reap the benefits of this plant you can grow easily in a pot.
