Can I chew the leaves too?

Swallowing a few soft leaves is traditional; avoid chewing hard for long.

Is copper-vessel water better?

Optional; plain clean water is what matters.

Is dried tulsi as good as fresh?

Dried leaves work for tea; use a little less as they are concentrated.

Tulsi-Infused Water as Part of Your Morning Dinacharya

A glass of warm water with a few tulsi leaves first thing in the morning, a simple start to an Ayurvedic daily routine of hydration, movement and calm.

The Ayurvedic view of tulsi

Tulsi, or holy basil, grows in a pot in many Indian courtyards. Ayurveda describes it as warming and light, and families use a few leaves in tea, kadha and morning rituals.

Dinacharya, the Ayurvedic daily routine, starts with waking early, cleaning the mouth and tongue, and drinking warm water. Adding a few tulsi leaves makes it fragrant and gives the habit a sense of ritual that helps it stick.

Ingredients

5 to 6 fresh tulsi leaves
1 glass warm water

How to prepare

Bruise the leaves lightly and add to warm water; steep five minutes.

How to use

Drink after brushing and tongue scraping.
Follow with ten minutes of stretching or a short walk.

Helpful habits

Pick fresh leaves from a clean home plant and rinse them well.

Precautions

Tulsi may lower blood sugar slightly; monitor if on diabetes medicine.
Use a few leaves, not handfuls; it is warming.
Check with a doctor if you take blood thinners or are planning a pregnancy.
A home remedy, not a treatment. See a doctor if symptoms last more than a few days or get worse.

Frequently asked questions

Can I chew the leaves too?: Swallowing a few soft leaves is traditional; avoid chewing hard for long.
Is copper-vessel water better?: Optional; plain clean water is what matters.
Is dried tulsi as good as fresh?: Dried leaves work for tea; use a little less as they are concentrated.