Best ways to consume tulsi for weight management

Indian Express

06-06-2025

Tulsi, or holy basil, has been a staple in Ayurvedic remedies for centuries, known for its ability to boost immunity, reduce stress, and aid digestion. But can it actually help burn belly fat? Many believe tulsi's metabolism-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties may support weight loss, especially when combined with a balanced diet and exercise.
While natural remedies like tulsi are often considered safe, using them effectively requires the right approach.
Kanikka Malhotra, consultant dietician and certified diabetes educator, tells indianexpress.com, 'Tulsi, or holy basil, is a powerful herb that can enhance metabolism by improving lipid profiles and reducing blood glucose levels, making it a valuable addition to any weight management plan. Its antioxidant properties support detoxification and stress reduction, indirectly aiding in weight loss efforts. While tulsi does not directly target abdominal fat, its metabolic benefits can contribute to overall weight loss, including around the abdomen, when combined with a balanced diet and regular exercise.'
She adds that for those seeking to incorporate tulsi into their weight loss strategy, it's essential to understand that specific research on its direct impact on abdominal fat is limited. Therefore, using tulsi as part of a comprehensive weight management approach is recommended. By leveraging tulsi's benefits, individuals can boost their metabolism, improve digestion, reduce stress, and balance blood sugar levels, all of which are crucial for achieving and maintaining a healthy weight.
Each consumption method offers unique benefits, as mentioned by Malhotra:
Tulsi Tea: Steeping 8-10 fresh leaves or 1 teaspoon of dried leaves in boiled water for 10 minutes effectively boosts metabolism and aids digestion. Drinking it once or twice daily, preferably on an empty stomach, can help curb appetite and improve metabolic processes.
Raw Leaves: Adding fresh tulsi leaves to salads or using them in cooking can provide antioxidant benefits and support digestive health. However, the bioavailability of active compounds might be lower than that of tea.
Supplements: Tulsi capsules can be a convenient option, especially for those who find it difficult to incorporate the herb into their diet. A typical dosage is 1-2 capsules (500-1000 mg) per day, but it's essential to consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.
'The best way to consume tulsi for weight management is by drinking tulsi tea. This method is effective because it allows for the extraction of tulsi's active compounds, which can boost metabolism, enhance digestion, and reduce stress levels, all of which support weight loss efforts,' informs Malhotra.
While generally safe, Malhotra stresses that tulsi may cause:
'If you have any of these conditions, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider before adding tulsi to your diet,' the expert says.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.