holy basil

Tulsi tea*, a common tea in India, is a traditional headache remedy. But what is it?

Tulsi is a type of basil. Not exactly the kind you typically cook with, which is sweet basil, but a different variety called holy basil (ocimum tenuiflorum). It is sweet and aromatic, and can be used in hot tea or iced tea.

Using basil for migraine is actually fairly common. You may remember that Drs Young and Silberstein mentioned a basil oil massage in their book Migraine and Other Headaches. Some people use it in diffusers, and yes, some cook with it.

Aside from headaches, holy basil may have other benefits that migraine and headache patients may be interested in. It may help decrease inflammation, and help with stress and anxiety. There is even some evidence that it could help prevent cancer. (Read more: 10 Holy Basil Benefits: Tulsi Helps Anxiety, Acne & More and Holy Basil)

You may have noticed this post at Migraine.com of someone recommending tulsi tea as well.

There is some concern that the plant may absorb chromium from the soil, so it’s recommended that you start with an organic leaf, which can easily be purchased in bulk on amazon (also in bags here).

To make tulsi tea*, use about a tablespoon of dried leaves per cup, and pour freshly boiled water over. Brew for 5-10 minutes, or longer. For an iced tea, use double the leaves, let it cool, and add ice.

* Yes, I’m aware that “tulsi tea” is not actually a tea, but a tisane. But it is commonly known as tulsi tea. Which does have a ring to it, even if it’s wrong. However, maybe you should tell your friends that you’re making a tulsi tisane, and impress them with your smarts (which may be another benefit of tulsi tisane – increased mental powers).