Benefits of Wearing a Tulsi Mala and the Side Effects of Tulsi Plant

Tulsi Mala is a sacred necklace made using the stem of the sacred Tulsi plant (Ocimum sanctum), also called holy basil. For Hindus, Tulsi has great significance. Many use it as a prayer rosary. Most Hindus will have a Tulsi plant in their homes or courtyards, as it is believed to be very auspicious. Wearing a Tulsi Mala brings many benefits, including spiritual ones. However, it also has some side effects. 

In this article, we will learn about some interesting aspects of the Tulsi Mala and also discuss some potential side effects of the Tulsi plant.

Tulsi Mala and Spirituality

Tulsi Mala is often used in sacred rituals and meditation practices by Hindus. It can boost focus, spiritual connection, and mindfulness. People chant Mantras or prayers using the Tulsi Mala as a rosary. It bestows focus and induces feelings of peace and serenity. It has the ability to purify our aura and generate a positive energy field around us, thereby fostering harmony and spiritual growth.

Lord Vishnu and Tulsi

Lord Vishnu, the preserver Archetype in Hinduism, is associated with Goddess Tulsi. Vedic scriptures claim that Tulsi is very dear to Vishnu. Hence, Tulsi is also called "Vishnu Priya," meaning "the beloved of Vishnu." Tulsi leaves are very important in Vishnu worship and rituals. Devotees offer Tulsi leaves to Vishnu during prayers, Bhajans, and Aarti. The plant’s purity and fragrance are pleasing to Vishnu, attracting his blessings.

Tulsi is Goddess Lakshmi

According to mythology, Tulsi is an avatar of Goddess Lakshmi, the consort of Vishnu. Supposedly, Tulsi emerged from Lakshmi’s tears as she was observing Vishnu’s penance during his incarnation as Vamana. Hence, Tulsi embodies divine feminine energy and is regarded as holy by Hindus.

Symbol of Divine Protection

The Tulsi plant can repel negative energies and evil forces, due to its association with the divine protector, Vishnu. Tulsi Mala is very significant for Vishnu devotees. It helps them connect deeply with Vishnu and also enhances their spiritual practices. The Tulsi Mala is a sacred offering to Vishnu, using it while chanting his name or Mantras helps invoke his grace.

Tulsi’s Transformative Power

Tulsi supposedly emerged from the ashes of a demon who was defeated by Vishnu. His name was Jalandhara. This signifies Tulsi’s transformative power and its power to purify and protect. Using Tulsi leaves, beads, or oil enables spiritual growth and helps one attain Moksha/salvation.

Tulsi in Ayurveda

Due to its healing properties, Tulsi is called the ‘Golden remedy of Ayurveda'. It is good for the heart and helps reduce cholesterol. It has antimicrobial properties and boosts digestion. It is also used to heal skin problems. 

Side Effects of the Tulsi Plant

Having mentioned the positive qualities of Tulsi, we now turn to its negative aspects or side effects. Let us see what they are.

1. Unsafe for pregnant ladies

Tulsi can affect the embryo in the womb and trigger a premature delivery. If pregnant women consume Tulsi, it might induce uterine contractions that can be harmful. Sometimes, Tulsi stimulates the blood flow to the uterus and pelvic region, causing contractions. So, pregnant ladies should not eat Tulsi leaves.

2. It’s not suitable for diabetics

Studies have shown that consuming Tulsi leaves can help reduce blood glucose levels. People who are also taking other medicines for diabetes may find their blood sugar dropping to dangerous levels if they consume Tulsi leaves. For this reason, they should avoid eating Tulsi leaves or extracts.

3. It affects the reproductive system

Some studies indicate that Tulsi can reduce sperm count and the heaviness of reproductive organs, including testicles, adrenal gland, prostate gland, uterus, and ovary, though the study was not on human beings.

4. It might interfere with blood thinners

Tulsi is a blood thinner. Hence, people who are already taking drugs to thin the blood should avoid consuming Tulsi leaves or extracts. 

5. It can harm the liver

Tulsi contains eugenol, which is found in cloves and Peruvian amber. While eugenol in small quantities can detoxify the liver, excess amounts can cause liver damage, diarrhea, nausea, convulsions, and rapid heartbeats.

6. It can stain your teeth

Tulsi leaves contain mercury, which can stain the teeth when bitten. Therefore, one should only swallow them, not bite or chew them.