Holy Basil Krishna (Ocimum tenuiflorum)

Dried Holy Basil of the Krishna variety, the dark-leaved cultivar of Ocimum tenuiflorum. Called "Tulsi" in Sanskrit and traditionally venerated across Hindu households, Holy Basil is one of the most sacred plants in Hindu tradition and one of the most-documented adaptogenic herbs in Ayurvedic medicine.

Key Facts

Botanical name

Ocimum tenuiflorum (formerly Ocimum sanctum)

Family

Lamiaceae (mint family)

Sanskrit name

Tulsi (translates to "the incomparable one")

Cultivar

Krishna (dark-leaved variety)

Native region

Indian subcontinent

Ayurvedic classification

Rasayana (restorative tonic)

Studied compounds

Eugenol, ursolic acid, rosmarinic acid

What is Tulsi Krishna?

Holy Basil (Tulsi) is a small flowering shrub in the mint family, native to India and Southeast Asia. The plant has been venerated in Hindu tradition for millennia and is considered sacred to the deity Vishnu (and his avatars Krishna and Rama). Three main cultivars are recognized in Ayurvedic practice: Rama (light green, sweeter), Krishna (dark purple-green, spicier), and Vana (wild). Krishna Tulsi is named for its association with the deity Krishna and has a more pungent, clove-like aroma than Rama Tulsi.

How to Use Tulsi Krishna

The traditional preparation is a tea: steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried leaf per 8 oz cup in hot water for 5-10 minutes, then strain. Tulsi is consumed daily in many Indian households as a sacred and tonic herb.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between Krishna and Rama Tulsi?
Krishna has darker leaves and a spicier, more clove-like aroma; Rama is lighter green and sweeter. Both are the same species (Ocimum tenuiflorum) with cultivar differences.

Is Holy Basil the same as culinary basil?
No; Holy Basil (O. tenuiflorum) is a different species from sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum). They share the genus but have different aromas and uses.

What does Tulsi mean?
Tulsi is Sanskrit for "the incomparable one," reflecting the plant's sacred status.

What is Tulsi traditionally used for?
In Ayurveda, Tulsi is classified as a rasayana - a restorative tonic - and used as an adaptogen, immune-supporting herb, and respiratory tonic.

Why is Tulsi venerated in Hindu tradition?
Tulsi is considered sacred to Vishnu and his avatars Krishna and Rama. Many Hindu households grow tulsi in courtyards and offer daily ritual care.

Can I drink Tulsi every day?
Yes; daily Tulsi tea is a traditional Indian practice.

This product has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.