Describe a Useful Plant You Know About Cue Card

Where is it available?

The scientific name of the Tulsi plant is Ocimum tenuiflorum. This plant is found throughout Southeastern Asian countries and has multiple uses. Interestingly, Hindus consider Tulsi to have both medicinal and religious value. Being the Mother Nature of Medicine, Tulsi is considered sacred by the Hindus.

What does it look like?

I have grown up in a joint family of 20 members. My family was a very orthodox South Indian family. Everyone valued and respected nature and deity. It is a common practice in India to grow the Tulsi plant at home due to its sacredness. We also had a Tulsi plant in the middle of the house. The leaves are green-colored with a sharp aroma and flavor. Tulsi leaves are oval-shaped with a slightly sharp tip, and the edges are slightly toothed. It is usually a small plant with small leaves and grows on earthen pots also. Tulsi often referred to as basil, is a small green plant and has four different types.

Explain how is it useful?

There are multiple uses of Tulsi in Ayurveda. Ayurveda has frequently adopted Tulsi, its oil, and leaves to cure numerous health ailments. Crushed leaves of Tulsi are effective for cough, fever, and other diseases of the lungs. Some also believe that it helps to purify the atmosphere and acts as a de-polluting agent. Tulsi is rich in antioxidants, thus, it helps to make the skin healthier and glowing. Tulsi and amla hair masks are often applied to stimulate hair growth. Tea lovers often consume basil leaves tea. Some users extract oil from the basil leaves as it works wonders for exhaustion, depression, and reducing stress levels.

Where is it available?

It was also traditionally used as a remedy for menstrual cramps, inflammation, and fever but is now widely used by people prone to migraine. The plant originated in Europe but is also found in other parts of the world.A study has also depicted its ongoing research for treating cancer. It was also called the aspirin of the 18th century as it was used for toothaches, antiseptics, and insecticides. Besides, the medicinal benefits feverfew is also grown as an ornament.

What does it look like?

The plant looks beautiful especially when flowers bloom. Its flowers look like a mini version of the sunflower to me. But some people find more similarities with daisies than sunflowers. The plant is truly gorgeous to look at and they are often planted for beautification purposes. There are numerous health benefits of feverfew, but it also has some disadvantages.

Explain how this plant is useful.

Nevertheless, this plant has gained popularity due to its frequent use by people suffering from migraine and its aesthetic value. Barring the disadvantages, it is mostly sold and consumed in powder form and has acquired the status of a registered herbal medicine in parts of Europe.

Where is it available?

It is an evergreen perennial which originated in the Arabian Peninsula. It is highly beneficial.

What does it look like?

From cosmetic products to beverages Aloe Vera has carved a niche in the top used consumer products. It’s a stem-less or very short-stemmed succulent plant. The average height of the plant is around 60-100 cm. It has triangular, fleshy green leaves with saw-toothed edges. These prickly leaves act as a defence against animals and insects. It grows outdoors as well as indoors as they require a little amount of sunshine to grow.

Explain how this plant is useful?

Not only does it have a plethora of medicinal benefits but is also a common ingredient in cosmetic products. It has antiviral and antibacterial ingredients which makes it an ideal suitor for curing skin diseases. I mix aloe Vera with coconut oil to moisturize my hair. My mother too uses this recipe for shiny hairs. Packed with amazing skin, hair, and health benefits it is a crucial plant today. Aloe Vera has a long-standing relationship with Ayurveda. According to Ayurveda, Aloe Vera is extremely useful for women. It provides digestive support, immunity support, pain relief during menstruation, and more.