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WINTER AND RESPIRATORY ISSUES: HOW THE COLD SEASON IMPACTS OUR BREATHING 

The weather can have profound implications for individuals with lung disease. Sudden weather changes, such as rapid drops in temperature or shifts in humidity, along with extreme conditions like high levels of air pollution or allergens, can trigger a range of lung symptoms, irrespective of the season. In this blog, we will delve into common respiratory problems that tend to arise during the winter months, including conditions like asthma, bronchitis, and COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease). Additionally, we will provide practical tips and strategies for maintaining optimal respiratory health in the face of these challenges.

Common Winter Respiratory Problems:

1

Asthma:

Cold air is a common trigger for asthma flare-ups, especially during winter. Infections like flu and cold can worsen asthma symptoms, causing airway inflammation and constriction. This can lead to wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath, making it difficult for individuals with asthma to breathe comfortably.

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2

Bronchitis:

Inflammation of the respiratory passages can lead to bronchitis, characterized by chest congestion, persistent coughing up mucus, shortness of breath, and wheezing. Cold weather can further aggravate bronchitis symptoms, causing increased production of mucus, making it harder to clear the airways and breathe easily.

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3

Pneumonia:

Cold weather can exacerbate existing respiratory infections like pneumonia, leading to symptoms such as shallow, rapid breathing, shortness of breath, chest pain, and fever. The cold air can further compromise the already weakened immune system, making it more challenging for the body to fight off the infection and recover.

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4

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD):

Individuals with COPD are more vulnerable during winter due to the negative effects of cold air on their lungs. Exposure to cold air can trigger flare-ups, causing increased mucus production, difficulty breathing, coughing, fatigue, and chest tightness. COPD patients need to take extra precautions during winter to minimize the impact of cold weather on their respiratory health.

Factors Aggravating Breathing Problems in Winter:

Tips to Maintain Respiratory Health in Winter:

Ayurvedic Remedies for Respiratory Health:

1

Ginger and Honey Tea:

Known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, ginger and honey tea can soothe the throat, reduce cough, and clear respiratory passages.

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2

Turmeric Milk:

Turmeric, a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant spice, can alleviate respiratory issues. Drinking warm turmeric milk before bedtime can provide relief from cough, congestion, and sore throat.

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3

Eucalyptus Steam:

 Inhaling eucalyptus steam can open up the airways and relieve congestion. Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to a bowl of hot water, cover your head with a towel, and breathe in the steam for a few minutes.

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4

Tulsi (Holy Basil) Tea:

Revered in Ayurveda for its immune-boosting and respiratory health benefits, drinking tulsi tea can help reduce inflammation, fight infections, and support the respiratory system.

5

Licorice Root Decoction:

Licorice root, known for its expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties, can soothe the throat and reduce cough. Prepare a decoction by boiling licorice root in water and drinking it.

Detoxification Therapies (Panchakarma) and Pranayama:

Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of detoxifying the body to remove accumulated toxins that can contribute to respiratory issues. Detoxification therapies such as Panchakarma, including Nasya therapy, can help clear the sinuses, reduce congestion, and improve respiratory function. Additionally, practicing pranayama or yogic breathing exercises, such as deep breathing and alternate nostril breathing, can help improve lung function and reduce the impact of air pollution on the respiratory system.

By understanding common winter respiratory problems and following preventive measures, individuals with respiratory problems can reduce the risk of flare-ups and maintain better respiratory health.

*This Blog is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your doctor for personalized guidance and recommendations regarding your health and well-being. 

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5 EXERCISES FOR CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH: BOOST YOUR HEART HEALTH WITH THESE WORKOUTS

Cardiovascular health is essential for maintaining a healthy body and mind. Regular exercise is one of the best ways to improve heart health, reduce the risk of heart disease, and lower blood pressure. In addition to a balanced diet, incorporating cardiovascular exercises into your routine can also help you maintain a healthy weight and increase stamina.

Engaging in Regular Physical Activity Offers Numerous Benefits for your Health and Well-Being. Here’s How it can Positively Impact your Body and Mind:

1. Enhances cardiovascular health: Consistent participation in moderate- and vigorous-intensity physical activity strengthens your heart muscle, improving its ability to pump blood throughout your body and increasing oxygen levels in your bloodstream. This increased blood flow nourishes your muscles and helps remove waste products. Additionally, physical activity widens your capillaries, enabling them to deliver even more oxygen and nutrients to your body.
2. Reduces the risk of heart attacks: For individuals with coronary heart disease, regular aerobic activity can significantly improve heart function and lower the chances of experiencing a second heart attack. However, it’s important to consult your doctor to determine which types of activities are safe for you, especially if you have pre-existing heart conditions.
3. Boosts mental health and quality of life: Physical activity is associated with better cognitive function in adults as they age, and it can also have positive effects on cognition in children and teenagers. Additionally, physically active individuals of all ages have a lower risk of developing depression and anxiety. Regular activity can alleviate feelings of anxiety and contribute to improved sleep quality. Furthermore, being physically active enhances your ability to perform daily tasks, such as climbing stairs and shopping, resulting in an overall improved quality of life.

If you are new to exercising, it is important to start slow and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts.

Here are 5 Exercises that can Help you Boost your Cardiovascular Health:

1

RUNNING:

Running is a great way to get your heart pumping and improve cardiovascular health. It also helps build strong bones, strengthen muscles, and burn calories. To start, begin with a brisk walk for 5 minutes, then alternate between brisk walking and running for 20 minutes. As you build endurance, try increasing the duration of your runs and incorporating more challenging routes.

2

CYCLING:

Cycling is a low-impact exercise that is gentle on the joints but still provides a great workout. You can either go for an outdoor bike ride or use a stationary bike at the gym. Aim for at least 30 minutes of cycling, and gradually increase the resistance to make it more challenging.

3

SWIMMING: 

Swimming is a full-body workout that can strengthen muscles and improve cardiovascular health. It is also a great option for those looking for a 40-minute low-impact exercise. Start with gradual laps around the pool, and as you build endurance, try incorporating different strokes and increasing the distance.

4

HIGH-INTENSITY INTERVAL TRAINING(HIIT)

HIIT involves short bursts of intense exercise followed by short rest periods. This type of workout is effective in improving cardiovascular health and burning calories. HIIT can be customized to fit your fitness level, but always make sure to warm up before starting and cool down afterward.

5

CIRCUIT TRAINING:

Circuit training involves a series of exercises performed in quick succession with short rest periods in between. This form of exercise not only improves cardiovascular health but also helps build muscle and burn fat. You can create your own circuit routine or join a class at the gym.

Incorporating these exercises into your fitness routine can help boost your cardiovascular health and overall well-being. Remember to always listen to your body, stay hydrated, and consult with a doctor before starting any new exercise program. With dedication and consistency, you can achieve healthy heart health that will benefit you for years to come. Keep pushing yourself and enjoy the journey towards a healthier lifestyle! Good luck! Happy exercising!

• Ayurveda Health Respiratory & Cardiovascular Health Yoga & Fitness
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HEART HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH: AYURVEDIC APPROACHES TO PROMOTING HEART HEALTH

Welcome to Heart Health Awareness Month! This dedicated month aims to raise awareness about heart health and promote preventive measures for cardiovascular diseases.

February is known as American Heart Month, a time when everyone, especially women, is encouraged to prioritize their cardiovascular well-being. While modern medicine has made significant advancements in treating heart diseases, it is always better to focus on prevention. And what better way to promote heart health than by incorporating ancient Ayurvedic practices into your lifestyle?

Ayurveda is a personalized medical system that emphasizes the prevention of diseases while addressing individualized assessment and treatment of illnesses. According to Ayurveda, health goes beyond the absence of disease and encompasses optimal functioning on physical, psychological, and spiritual levels. Suśruta, a classical authority in Ayurveda, defines health as follows:

“Health is the state of having balanced doshas (biological energies that maintain one’s physiology and psychology), balanced digestion, balanced tissues, and proper expulsion of wastes. It is a state of peace and contentment in the soul, senses, and mind.”[1]

Considering this definition of health, Ayurveda takes a holistic approach to an individual’s well-being, considering physical health, mental stability, spiritual well-being, social welfare, environmental factors, dietary and lifestyle habits, daily living trends, and seasonal variations in lifestyle, as well as specific disease management.

In Ayurveda, the heart is considered the seat of consciousness and controls all bodily functions. Therefore, taking care of your heart through Ayurvedic practices is crucial for maintaining a healthy mind and body.

Dietary Changes

According to Ayurveda, a proper diet is essential for maintaining heart health. It recommends incorporating six tastes into every meal – sweet, sour, salty, bitter, pungent, and astringent. Each taste has its unique benefits for the body. For example, bitter foods like leafy greens, bitter gourd, and turmeric have anti-inflammatory properties that can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Yoga and Meditation

Ayurveda emphasizes the mind-body connection and how our thoughts and emotions can impact our physical health. Therefore, incorporating yoga and meditation into your daily routine can also promote heart health. Yoga poses like the cobra pose, fish pose, and camel pose can improve blood circulation and strengthen the heart muscles. Meditation, particularly the Transcendental Meditation technique, plays a significant role and has been found to have beneficial effects in preventing and treating cardiovascular diseases.

The American Heart Association recommends considering the Transcendental Meditation technique in clinical practice to lower blood pressure. This technique involves silently repeating a mantra in your head, helping you achieve a state of restful alertness.

Herbal Remedies

Ayurveda also utilizes various herbs to promote heart health. One of the most well-known herbs for heart health is arjuna, which has been used for centuries to promote healthy blood pressure levels and strengthen the heart muscles. Other herbs such as guggul, hawthorn, and ashwagandha also have potent benefits for the heart and can be incorporated into your daily routine.

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Lifestyle Practices

Apart from diet, herbs, and exercise, Ayurveda also recommends incorporating certain lifestyle practices to maintain a healthy heart. These include getting enough sleep, avoiding processed foods and excessive alcohol consumption, and managing stress through techniques like pranayama (breathing exercises) and abhyanga (self-massage with warm oil).

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Luxurious Ayurvedic Treatments

In addition to these daily practices, you can also indulge in luxurious Ayurvedic treatments that promote heart health. Abhyanga with warm herbal oils can improve blood circulation and nourish the heart muscles. Panchakarma, a detoxification treatment, can also be beneficial for removing toxins that may impact heart health.

Incorporating Ayurvedic practices into your lifestyle can have significant benefits for your heart health and overall well-being. This Heart Health Awareness Month, take the time to learn more about Ayurveda and how you can incorporate its principles into your daily routine. With small changes and luxurious treatments, you can promote a healthy heart and live a long and vibrant life.  So why not give it a try? Your heart will thank you for it!  Let’s spread awareness and make our hearts stronger together! Happy Heart Health Awareness Month!

• Ayurveda Ayurvedic Remedies Respiratory & Cardiovascular Health
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BREATHE EASY WITH NASYA: AN ANCIENT AYURVEDIC PRACTICE

“The nose is the door to consciousness and the pathway to our inner pharmacy.” 

Dr. Vasant Lad, Ayurvedic Physician & Founder of The Ayurvedic Institute.

The ancient Ayurvedics considered the nasal passageways as portals to the brain, mind and higher consciousness. This is because it is through the nose that the vital life force flows—prana — enters the body with every breath. Exploring a path of mindfulness and becoming aware of the breath is probably one of the first steps to focused attention. Interestingly, breathwork is just as important as a detox mechanism since nearly 70% of the body’s waste is eliminated through the lungs by the simple act of inhaling oxygen to nourish all the cells, and exhaling carbon dioxide for disposing waste, with each outbreath.

Over the years, many in the west have turned to traditional Ayurvedic therapies such as nasal treatment for congestion, including the use of neti pots – the process of nasal saline irrigation, a therapy that uses a salt and water solution to flush out the nasal passages – to relieve sinus congestion, obtain relief from allergies, and more. For many, nasal irrigation may bring relief of sinus symptoms without the use of allergy or sinus relief medications – a major plus, especially due to the debilitating nature of allergies, as well as the fact that many find allergy medications dulling to the senses, and even drowsiness-inducing.

Think of the traditional Ayurvedic practice of Nasya – a therapeutic process of oiling the nasal cavity – as an advanced version of the neti pot therapy. Especially since studies have found that Nasal mucosa dryness improved significantly when pure sesame oil was used compared with Isotonic Sodium Chloride Solution (saline irrigation, as in the use of neti pots).

Nasya: A Key Ayurvedic Cleansing and Restorative Therapy

Prana enters our bodies through the nose, and flows through various channels to pass on cellular intelligence from one cell to another. It is only logical to consider the nasal cavity as the starting point for detoxifying therapies. Nasya is the administration of herbal oil that clears congestion and lubricates the respiratory pathways to promote the assimilation of prana.

Nasya treatment for sinus-related discomfort and nasal dryness consists of pouring a few drops of pure oil into the nose. It can also involve inhaling steam, followed by a face and neck massage, for enhanced benefits from the therapy. As the steam boosts circulation and loosens accumulated mucus, it prepares the respiratory channels to receive the medicated herbal oil. As the oil is gently placed at the base of each nostril, it is taken in by inhalation to lubricate the nasal cavity and decongest the breathing passages.

What are the benefits of Nasya

The primary benefits of using Ayurvedic nasya oil are relieving congestion and dryness. Ayurvedic wisdom suggests that these two imbalances amplify and proliferate issues in the head, face, sinuses, jaw, throat, neck and shoulders.

So, this Ayurvedic nasal oil treatment may work well* for respiratory, allergic, inflammatory and mental/emotional conditions to give you a plethora of benefits. Within Ayurvedic scripture, it is believed that the practice of Nasya can help with:

• Enhancing mental clarity
• Clearing the nasal and sinusoidal cavities
• Potentially helping reduce the frequency and intensity with recurrence of headaches and migraines*
• Promoting mental and sensory agility
• Soothing dryness of the nose
• Bestowing a clear voice and soothing hoarseness of the throat
• Helping clear away toxins in the skin and scalp, improving skin texture and radiance, and potentially delaying premature graying and arresting hair loss*

How to Do Nasya at Home

• Warm sesame or almond oil (you must ensure absolute purity of the oil in question as you are as good as consuming said oil. Do not use oil whose integrity may have been compromised in any way) by placing the oil in a glass dropper bottle and then placing the dropper bottle in a bath or bain marie with boiled water, allowing the oil to heat through the glass. Ensure that the oil is warmed, but does not become hot.
• If doing abhyanga then this would be the time to perform it (while the oil gently warms). If not, then place a drop of oil on the fingers and gently massage the sinus cavities and around the eyes. This method results in increased penetration of the oil, making it one of the effective natural remedies for sinus problems.
• Test a drop of oil on the back of your hand to ensure that it is warm, and not hot, almost as it you would a baby bottle.
• Lay on your back either on a bed, couch or the floor. Then tilt your head back as far back as comfortably possible, without stressing the neck. For neck support, place a small pillow or a rolled up towel beneath your neck.
• With your head tilted back, place 3–5 drops of nasya oil at the base of each nostril. Position the dropper away from the nose as this helps keep it uncontaminated.
• Breathe in deeply to allow the oil to enter into the nostrils, lubricating and coating them. Take a couple of more breaths while closing one nostril at a time. Spit out any fluid that reaches your mouth as this is loaded with toxins.
• Stay still for a few minutes and slow your breathing to allow the oil to absorb. Gently massage the nose and sinus for a couple minutes to support absorption, if desired.
• Rinse the mouth with warm water.

Contraindications to Nasya

While it is recommended to do this nasal oil detox regularly, it is extremely effective during Kapha season. However, there are certain conditions under which you should not practice nasya therapy such as:

• Directly before or after meals
• Extreme cramping or indigestion
• Intoxication of drugs and/or alcohol
• Having wet hair 1 hour before/after the procedure
• Immediate stress, such as vigorous exercise or emotional meltdown
• Fever or other acute infections
• Pregnancy and post-natal

Ancient Ayurvedic texts state, “Disease begins with improper breathing.” So, if we had to distil the advice to just one tip—fix the breath and you will stay free of illnesses. Nasya is one of the five classical detox practices in Ayurveda and an important component of breathwork.

It is incredible how changing and balancing a simple practice such as nasya can be to overall health. Caring for our nasal passageway and honoring its role via nasya treatment can vitalize and nurture healthier habits for the mind.

*The information herein is shared strictly for informational purposes, finds basis in ancient Ayurvedic scriptures, and has not been evaluated by the FDA. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat or prevent any disease, or affect the structure or function of the body.  The information herein does not constitute medical advice.  Anyone suffering from a medical condition should consult with a physician.  User reviews do not constitute a guarantee that you will achieve the same results — what works for one may not work for another.

• Ayurveda Health Respiratory & Cardiovascular Health
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A GUIDE TO BETTER LUNG HEALTH: BREATHE EASY WITH AYURVEDA

Our respiratory system is a true powerhouse for our bodies: it provides oxygen and prana, or the Ayurvedic vital life force, to the rest of our bodies. It’s fundamentally necessary for our survival, mediating between the external environment and our internal nourishment. As such, it’s very important to protect our lung and respiratory health, which can be impeded by a number of factors, ranging from external pollutants to everyday lifestyle practices.

An Ayurvedic perspective on lung health can help us formulate a targeted approach for maximizing our respiratory or lung capacities and minimizing disease. Read on to find out more about what our lungs reveal about our greater constitution, and tips for how to best support this vital system.

THE DOSHAS AND LUNG CONDITIONS

Each dosha, when imbalanced, is more likely to lead to the development of certain respiratory conditions over others. If you’re experiencing respiratory discomfort or illness, understanding the relationship between the doshas and lung health can help you figure out which dosha you might need to bring back into balance.

Kapha

An excess of Kapha is linked to most mucus-related symptoms, in addition to colds, cough and congestion. Furthermore, Kapha is an especially dominant presence in the lungs and stomach, which is where mucus can develop and travel to other parts of the respiratory tract, leading to more serious imbalances. As a result, while imbalanced Pitta and Vata can contribute to negative respiratory symptoms, Kapha plays an especially important role in contributing to respiratory imbalance

Other Causes Of Lung Irritation & Respiratory Imbalance

1

POLLUTION

Naturally, toxins in the surrounding air—whether resulting from industrial pollution or car exhaust, pollen or dust—can cause our respiratory system to become irritated and imbalanced when we spend time outdoors and lead to breathing problems. While these facts of the environment are not something we can assert individual control over, one way to reduce the damage caused by pollutants is to limit time spent outside during periods in which excess pollen or other toxins are being produced.

Eating fatty, heavy, oily foods, or foods that dull the mind and body, like alcohol and meats, can all contribute to an excess buildup of Kapha in ways that harm our health. In addition, eating or drinking in excess can further exacerbate this imbalance.

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DIET

Eating fatty, heavy, oily foods, or foods that dull the mind and body, like alcohol and meats, can all contribute to an excess buildup of Kapha in ways that harm our health. In addition, eating or drinking in excess can further exacerbate this imbalance.

3

SEASONAL CHANGES & ALLERGIES

This is another factor whose external elements we can’t necessarily control: different seasons bring on different environmental conditions, all of which have a unique effect on our bodies and doshic constitutions. However, that doesn’t mean we’re powerless to the changing of the seasons. Understanding which kind of allergies you are experiencing can in turn empower you to take a dosha-informed approach to improving your symptoms. To learn more about the relationship between doshas and allergies, check out our blog post here.

4

TOO MUCH OR TOO LITTLE EXERCISE

While too much exercise can cause you to overexert and strain your lungs, too little exercise can reduce your lungs’ capacity for oxygen intake. When exercising regularly with an appropriate amount of strenuousness, you boost your intake of oxygen, promote strong digestion and more. To figure out the best way to exercise according to your dosha, you can check out our blog post here.

 

OTHER TIPS FOR BOOSTING LUNG HEALTH

In addition to responding to the changes in your external environment, making sure to exercise and avoiding Kapha-stimulating foods, there are a number of other Ayurvedic practices that boost lung health and maximize oxygen intake.

1

YOGA

Yoga is a powerful Ayurvedic practice that enhances both mind and body through exercises that connect the breath and movement. Yoga is a powerful practice for moderating one’s breathing and maximizing the vital flow of oxygen throughout the body. As research has demonstrated, yoga’s powerful benefits include lower breathing and heart rates, lower cholesterol levels, asthma management and increased blood flow to the intestines and vital organs.

There are a number of ways to build a targeted yoga practice responsive to your individual needs and goals. Whatever routine you choose, your lungs will thank you regardless. Here are several of our past blogs exploring the different beneficial aspects of yoga:

• Yoga for Your Dosha: Enhance Your Health & Wellness by Tailoring Your Practice

• Our Favorite Face Yoga Techniques!
• Yoga for Radiant Skin  

2

PRANAYAMA

Within yogic practice, pranayama is a breathwork technique that keeps oxygen flowing through the body, which in turn has tranquilizing and cleansing effects.

Centering pranayama at the heart of your practice (regardless of what approach you decide to take) will be vital in boosting your lung health over the long term.

There are several different pranayama practices that hold special benefits for each dosha, including alternate nostril breathing and cooling breathing. To learn more about pranayama and how to tailor your practice to your dosha, check out our blog here.

3

HERBAL REMEDIES

Lastly, there are several Ayurvedic herbs that hold potent benefits for respiratory health. Incorporating a couple of these herbs into your diet or through supplements can be a great way to seamlessly support your lung health:

• Cardamom
• Tulsi (Holy basil)
• Licorice
• Triphala

• Ayurveda Health Ingredients Respiratory & Cardiovascular Health
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TULSI: THE TRIPLE TREAT FOR LUNGS, HEART AND SPIRIT!

The bright, sunny weather that signals spring often brings with it renewed motivation, energy and ambition. As the flowers start to bloom and the days get longer, the stagnation that characterizes winter gives way to a fresh spring vitality. You may find yourself excited to start a new project or ready to recommit to your previous resolutions. However, the excitement and motivation that characterizes spring may be stilted by an over-accumulation of Kapha during the winter months, which in turn might leave you feeling heavy, sluggish or fatigued. Fortunately, Ayurveda offers a number of natural solutions for alleviating such imbalances.

One such solution is by incorporating Tulsi, or holy basil, into your diet. In the ancient Ayurvedic texts of the Vedic Puranis, tulsi is considered to be the most sacred plant in the world. It is believed to promote ojas, a force that represents our spiritual and physical health, and prana, the vital life force that is linked to communication and intelligence. Its health benefits are immense—from promoting heart health to supporting weight loss. Research has shown that it protects the body from physical and chemical stress, improves memory and cognitive function, heals wounds and more. Also known as “liquid yoga,” a cup of Tulsi tea is known to relax the mind, soothe anxiety and promote focus, tranquility and calm, help in stress management.

These immense benefits make Tulsi the perfect adaptogenic herb to incorporate into your routine this spring. It can help both the mind and the body to recenter and reset, leaving you feeling empowered to approach the spring with energy and motivation. Curious to learn more about this superstar herb? Here’s a breakdown of Tulsi’s benefits, along with ways to incorporate it into your diet.

BENEFITS OF TULSI
 

It Provides Adaptogenic Support

Tulsi is an adaptogenic herb, which means that it naturally adapts to your body’s specific needs, making it a safe, all-natural resource for boosting holistic health and ensures strong immunity. As an adaptogen, tulsi can alleviate stress, boost metabolism and more.

It Boosts Overall Immunity And Wellbeing

Tulsi is known to promote improved control over glucose and cortisol levels. This in turn allows it to support wound healing, reduce stress, promote thyroid health, strengthen the gastrointestinal system and more. Furthermore, research has shown that Tulsi promotes the production of antibodies and T-helper cells, which play crucial roles in maintaining a strong immune system and fighting off infection and promotes holistic wellness.

It Improves Circulation

Tulsi also strengthens the plasma tissue layer, which in turn promotes healthy circulation and overall heart health. As an added bonus, strong circulation also promotes a radiant, glowing complexion.

It Improves Mood And Relieves Mild Depression

Tulsi is known as “liquid yoga” for good reason: research has shown that it can alleviate depression and anxiety and boost one’s mood. Incorporating this herbal remedy into your daily routine can thus promote overall mental and spiritual well-being.

It Boosts Cognitive Function

As an adaptogen, Tulsi also has the capacity to improve our mental functioning. Several studies have also confirmed that Tulsi boosts cognitive function, improves memory, alleviates brain fog and more.

HOW TO INCORPORATE TULSI INTO YOUR DIET

here are a number of ways to incorporate Tulsi into your diet depending on your preferences. You can take Tulsi as a supplement, drink it in the form of herbal tea, or use a massage or wellness oil that incorporates it as a key ingredient.

In terms of tea, you can buy Tulsi tea bags online—or, if you’re fortunate enough to have access to a tulsi plant, you can boil a few leaves in water and mix with lemon, honey or ginger.

Note: Tulsi is not recommended for those who are pregnant or have low blood sugar. Additionally, as Tulsi has warming properties, those with high pitta levels should consume it in moderation and be sure to balance it out with other cooling factors. At the end of the day, consult an Ayurvedic or other medical practitioner if you have any questions or concerns regarding Tulsi’s suitability for you.