Tulsi is considered a holy plant in India, not just because of beliefs but because of its immense therapeutic value. The aromatic plant tulsi contains antioxidants and has been traditionally used as a home remedy for various health conditions, including cough and immunity-boosting. A new study suggests that tulsi, also known as holy basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum), can aid in weight loss through multiple mechanisms, including metabolism-boosting and improved digestion and burning belly fat. According to research published in the Indian Journal Of Clinical Biochemistry in 2016, participants who consumed holy basil capsules twice daily for 8 weeks experienced improvements in both body weight and body mass index.
How can tulsi help with weight loss?
- While it cannot be solely relied upon for weight loss, it can support weight management efforts in several ways. Holy basil enhances the body’s metabolism by increasing the metabolic rate, it helps the body process food and burn calories faster, which can assist in weight loss.
- The herb functions as an adaptogen, helping the body manage stress levels. “Holy basil is an adaptogen, which means it can help the body cope with stress and, so, reduce cortisol levels. Lower stress means reduced fat storage and more effective weight management,” says Susmita.
- A 2022 study published in Frontiers In Nutrition confirmed that holy basil possesses anti-stress, adaptogenic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Research from the Journal Of Functional Foods in 2018 demonstrated tulsi’s effectiveness in reducing blood glucose levels. Stable blood sugar levels help to control feelings of hunger and cravings, which can contribute to overeating and weight gain.
- The herb supports digestive health and reduces bloating. It is beneficial to have tulsi for weight loss as it can improve digestion of fats and carbohydrates. This can help with the breakdown and absorption of nutrients while preventing weight gain due to indigestion.
- Tulsi also works by regulating ghrelin, the appetite-stimulating hormone. By suppressing appetite, it will be easier to avoid overeating and control food cravings.
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How to consume tulsi for weight loss?
There are several ways to consume tulsi for weight loss. These include drinking tulsi tea, combining it with lemon water or honey, using tulsi leaf powder, taking supplements, or adding tulsi seeds to salads.
- For tulsi tea, steep 8–10 fresh leaves or 1 teaspoon dried leaves in boiled water for 10 minutes. Drink it once or twice a day, preferably on an empty stomach in the morning or before meals to curb appetite and improve digestion.
- When combining with lemon, steep 5-7 fresh leaves in boiled water and add juice from half a lemon. Combining holy basil with lemon further helps in weight loss. Lemons aid in digestion, boost metabolism, and balance blood sugar levels.
- For the honey combination, steep 8 leaves and add a teaspoon of honey when warm. “Honey is a natural sweetener that can curb cravings, especially for sweets high in calories.
Regarding supplement form, typically, the standard dosage is 1 to 2 capsules (500 to 1000 mg) per day, but check with your doctor before having it.
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