Tulsi Basil (Holy Basil): Benefits, Uses & How to Make Tulsi Tea

Tulsi basil is one of those herbs that can earn a special place in your life.

It’s Kate’s go-to herb — and has quickly become a staff favourite here at the farm. The herb that has it all: it grows with ease, it’s a breeze to harvest, and its flavour and aroma alone feel like a deep exhale. Truly, one of the best days of the week is tulsi harvest day! The moment it’s cut, that warm, spicy-sweet scent takes over the entire drying room; grounding, comforting, and unmistakable.

TL;DR: We love Tulsi.

A Little Background on Tulsi (Holy Basil)

Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum, sometimes listed as Ocimum sanctum) originates from India and surrounding regions, where it has been used for thousands of years in traditional systems of medicine and daily life. Over time, different varieties of tulsi have been cultivated — including temperate tulsi, which is well-suited to cooler growing regions like ours here in Ontario.

While its roots are firmly planted in South Asian tradition, temperate tulsi allows this revered plant to be grown and enjoyed closer to home, without losing the aromatic qualities and gentle character that make tulsi so beloved.

Tulsi is commonly known as Holy Basil, a name that reflects its deep cultural and spiritual significance.

Tulsi as an Adaptogen

Tulsi is commonly classified as an adaptogen, a category of herbs traditionally used to help the body adapt to stress — whether physical, emotional, or environmental.

Rather than stimulating or sedating, adaptogens are thought to work by supporting balance. In traditional herbalism, tulsi has been used to help the body respond more appropriately to stressors, supporting resilience over time rather than offering a quick fix.

This is one of the reasons tulsi feels so versatile. It can be gently uplifting during the day, yet deeply settling in the evening — depending on how and when you use it.

When We Reach for Tulsi

Tulsi is one of those herbs we find ourselves gravitating towards during busy seasons or more stressful transitional times, when we’re looking for:

• A gentle sense of calm during stressful or full days
• A grounding pre-sleep ritual that doesn’t feel heavy
• Support during periods of stress or anxious thinking
• Cold, cough, or seasonal immune support
• Nervous system nourishment during burnout or overwhelm
• Mental clarity, focus, and a sense of steadiness

It’s not dramatic. It’s dependable. But dependable is a real flex, too. 

How We Use Tulsi at the Farm

Our go-to is a simple, warm cup of tulsi tea (as a single herb or in our Balance tea blend). That said, tulsi is also surprisingly refreshing when prepared cold — perfect for summer days.

Our Tulsi Iced Tea Method

• Measure 1–2 teaspoons of tulsi tea per cup of cold water
• Combine the tea and water in a pitcher
• Infuse in the refrigerator for 6–12 hours
• Strain, then sweeten to taste with honey or maple syrup
• Enjoy chilled

This cold infusion brings out tulsi’s softer, sweeter notes and makes for an incredibly refreshing, functional iced tea.

What Does Tulsi Taste Like?

Tulsi’s flavour is layered and distinctive... and difficult to describe!

It’s slightly peppery, a little minty, and a bit reminiscent of clove or anise hyssop (though not licorice-y). There’s a warmth to it that feels comforting rather than sharp, and an aromatic quality that is an experience in itself.

Final Thoughts on Tulsi

When we’re looking for a momentary escape, or a grounding return to ourselves, tulsi is the herb we reach for.

Whether you’re navigating long workdays, winding down before bed, or supporting yourself through cold and flu season, tulsi earns its place as an all-around, any-time-of-day herb.

We hope you find it as easy to love as we have!

Tulsi Basil FAQs

Is tulsi the same as culinary basil?

Not quite. While they’re related, tulsi has a very different flavour and traditional use than sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum). Tulsi is typically used as a tea or medicinal herb rather than in cooking.

Is tulsi calming or energizing?

Interestingly, it can be both. Tulsi is often described as gently uplifting while also calming — supporting mental clarity during the day and relaxation in the evening.

Does tulsi contain caffeine?

No. Tulsi is naturally caffeine-free, making it a great alternative to coffee or black tea later in the day.

Can tulsi be blended with other herbs?

Absolutely. Tulsi pairs beautifully with herbs like lemon balm, spearmint, chamomile, rose, anise hyssop, or oatstraw.