"Never take some one for granted,hold every person close to your heart and in esteem,because you might wake up one day and realise that you have lost a Diamond,while you were busy collecting stones." "Always be the reason for some one's happiness and never just be a part of it. Always be a part of some one's sadness, But never be the reason for it."
Monday, December 07, 2015
Wishing you all a SUNNY & BRIGHTER DAYS AHEAD....................
Wishing you all a SUNNY & BRIGHTER DAYS AHEAD....................
WHETHER YOU WANT IT OR NOT.................THIS TOO SHALL PASS.................
And once the storm and rain are over, you won't even remember.......HOW YOU MADE IT THROUGH...............HOW YOU MANAGED TO SURVIVE.............And you won't even be sure......whether the storm and rain are really over.......................but one thing is certain.......when you come out of the storm and rain, you won't be the same person who walked in......................that's what this storm and rain is all
about..........................And.............|PLEASE DO REMEMBER ALWAYS....................THAT.........................This too shall pass................LIKE ANY OTHER THING......................................HAVE A BLISSFUL DAY...................YOURS IN DIVINE FRIENDSHIP............JK
Thursday, November 19, 2015
LIVE A LIFE THAT…………………………….MATTERS………………………….2
LIVE A LIFE THAT…………………………….MATTERS………………………….2
LIVE A LIFE THAT MATTERS..............WITH PASSION AND DETERMINATION.................&..............DIVE INTO IT WITH YOUR WHOLE BEING................BEING AN ACTIVE PARTICIPANT.........LIVE A LIFE THAT WILL REFLECT YOUR LEGACY AND POTENTIAL..............LIVE TO ALWAYS HONOUR YOUR PRINCIPLES. ........LIVE TO HOLD YOURSELF TO HIGH STANDARDS AND HIGHEST ESTEEM..............AND LIVE WITH DATE TO BE ALONE SOMETIMES.........................NEVER LOSE YOUR SENSE OF HUMOIUR AN D WONDER AND ACT ON ITS INSPIRATION EVERY TIMES IT COMES TO YOU...................................&.......................................
LEARN TO LIVE A FREE LIFE WITH RESPONSIBLE TOO AND MAINTAIN YOUR FAITH IN ALL THAT IS GOOD IN LIFE AND WAKE UP EVERY MORNING EXPECTING ANOTHER WONDERFUL DAY.............MAKE A LIFE PLAN AND PUT YOUR WHOLE BEING INTO IT..............................................BE AWAARE OF WHAT YOU SHOULD BE THANKFUL FOR & CARE.........LAUGH AND CRY WITHOUT SHAME........GIVE HEARTFUL OF HEARTIEST HUGS..........................ENJOY THE LITTLE MOMENTS.............& CELEBRATE...."WHO YOU \ARE"................................TO LIVE A LIFE THAT MATTERS..................................................JK
Tuesday, November 17, 2015
THE 18 HOLY STEPS OF SABHARIMALA ( THE DIVINE SABHARI HILLS)
Sathyamaaya Ponnu Pathinettam Padi ( The True Golden 18 Holy Steps) of Sabhari malai
Temple.......................... Its symbolism and the Significance.................
Before one views the Sanctum Sanctorum, one has to climb over eighteen sacred steps. These steps are now covered with `Panchaloham' (a special composition of gold, silver, copper, iron and tin. Pilgrims initiate their ascent up the Pathinettam Padi by placing their right foot on the first step.
The symbolism of these 18 steps are as follows:-
The first five steps symbolises the five human senses (Panchendriyas) i.e. visual (vision), auditory (hearing), olfactory (smell), gustatory (taste) and tactile (touch). These signify the `mortal' nature of one's body.
The next eight steps symbolises the eight Ashtaragas viz, Kama, Krodha, Lobha, Moha, Madha, Maltsarya, Asooya, Dhumb (Love, Anger, Avarice, Lust, Pride, Unhealthy Competition, Jealousy and Boastfulness).
The next three steps stand for three Gunas or Thrigunas (nature-born qualities) i.e. Satva, ( perspicuity, discernment) , Rajas (activity, enjoyment) and Thamas (inactivity, stupor)..................and...................... The last two steps represent Vidya (Knowledge) and Avidya (Ignorance).
It is assumed that after climbing up these eighteen steps reverently, one symbolically detaches oneself from all the worldly ties that bind one physically and mentally to the world . It is only then that a person will be in a receptive condition to be `one' in consonance with the concept of 'The Ultimate Creator. The details given above represent the most prevalently accepted version of the significance of the Holy Pathinettam Padi. Other versions are:-
Ayyappa was a master of 18 weapons and the steps signify these.
Ayyappa before merging into the idol at the Sanctum Sanctorum, surrendered his 18 weapons, one at each step of Pathinettam Padi.
The steps represent the 18 hills existing in and around the region of Sabarimala.
The 18 Holy Steps - Patinettampadi
Pathinettapadi (18 divine steps) to the sanctum sanctorium is divine in all aspects. The first five steps depict "Bhoomi, Jalam Agni, Vayoo &; Akash", 6 to 9 steps for Karmendriya, 10 to 15 for Jhanandriya, 16th for mind 17th Intelligence and 18th Jeevathma Bhava. Those who cross all these steps are believed to achieve "Punyadarshan".
These steep steps are so important and holy that no one can climb them without fasting for 41 days and carrying the holy irrumudi on ones' head.There are many mythological stories associated with the holy Patinettampadi. Some believe the eighteen steps denote the 18 puranas. Some say that 18 weapons with which Lord Ayyappa destroyed the evil denotes the 18 steps. Others are of the belief that the first five steps denotes the indriyas (eyes, ears, nose, tongue and skin). The next eight steps signifies the ragas (tatwa, kama, krodha, moha, lobha, madha, matsraya, and ahamkara. The next three steps signifies the gunas (satwa, rajas and thamas). The seventeenth and the eighteenth denotes vidhya and ignorance.
The Patinettampadi can be used only twice - once for ascending the temple and once for descending below leaving the hill. Before ascending or descending the steps, pilgrims break coconut as an offering to the steps. One needs to have the sacre Irumudi on head while going up or down the 18 steps. While descending the steps the devotees climb down backwards facing the sanctum sanctorum. One who climbs the Patinettampadi for 18 times shall plant a sapling of coconut in Sabarimala.
Built on a plateau about 40 feet high, the Ayyappan temple commands a lofty view of the mountains and valleys all around. The ancient temple has been rebuilt after a fire in 1950. Within the confines of the sanctum sanctorium with a copper-plated roof and four golden finials at the top, two mandapams, the belikalpura which houses the altar, the flag-staff replacing the earlier stone image of the deity, sits a beautiful idol of Ayyappa in panchaloha, an alloy of five metals, about one and a half feet tall..............................
When Divinity & devotion begins and fills the Heart & Mind of a person...............,it will guide and lead him to 18 Holy Steps................and its Life time Divine achievement.............SWAMIYE SARANAM AYYAPPA.
JK
Monday, October 19, 2015
IT'S ALL ABOUT DRUMSTICK & IT'S LEAVES.................
IT'S ALL ABOUT DRUMSTICK & IT'S LEAVES.................
A Very Useful Information :-....................................
Moringa oleifera (Drumstick) is a miracle tree, Earth Mother's best gift to us.
It's leaves contain 40% protein and 9 essential nutrients which our body can't synthesize
Contains 25 times more Vitamin A than found in carrots.
17 times more calcium than found in milk.
25 times more iron than found in spinach.
15 times more pottasium than found in bananas.
So don't wait, make use of it as much as you can also protect this valuable gift.
Tuesday, October 06, 2015
Chickpeas: Health Benefits and Nutritional Information.
Chickpeas: Health Benefits and Nutritional Information.
Originally cultivated in the Mediterranean and the Middle East, chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, have spread their culinary influence to areas all over the world. They are featured prominently in Italian, Greek, Indian, Middle Eastern, Spanish and Portuguese cuisine.
Though the most common type of chickpea appears round and beige, other varieties include colors such as black, green, and red. Like other legumes such as beans, peas and lentils, chickpeas are prized for their high protein and fiber content, and also contain several key vitamins and minerals known to benefit human health.
Health Benefits of Consuming Chickpeas
Chickpeas have been associated with a number of possible health benefits for medical conditions. We will go through each condition one at a time.
1) Diabetes
Studies have shown that type 1 diabetics who consume high-fiber diets have lower blood glucose levels and type 2 diabetics may have improved blood sugar, lipids and insulin levels.
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends 21-25 grams of fiber per day for women and 30-38 grams per day for men.
2) Bone Health
The iron, phosphate, calcium, magnesium, manganese, zinc and vitamin K content present in chickpeas all contribute to building and maintaining bone structure and strength.
Though phosphate and calcium are both important in bone structure, the careful balance of the two minerals is necessary for proper bone mineralization – consumption of too much phosphorus with too little calcium intake can result in bone loss.
Bone matrix formation requires the mineral manganese, and iron and zinc play crucial roles in the production and maturation of collagen.
Low intakes of vitamin K have been associated with a higher risk for bone fracture. Adequate vitamin K consumption is important for good health, as it acts as a modifier of bone matrix proteins, improves calcium absorption and may reduce urinary excretion of calcium.
3) Blood Pressure
Maintaining a low-sodium intake is essential to lowering blood pressure, however increasing potassium intake may be just as important because of its vasodilation effects. According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, fewer than 2% of US adults meet the daily 4700 mg recommendation.
4) Heart Health
The high fiber, potassium, vitamin C and vitamin B-6 content, coupled with the lack of cholesterol found in chickpeas, all support heart health.
Chickpeas contain significant amounts of fiber, which helps lower the total amount of cholesterol in the blood, thereby decreasing the risk of heart disease.
In one study, those who consumed 4069 mg of potassium per day had a 49% lower risk of death from ischemic heart disease compared to those who consumed less potassium (about 1000 mg per day).
5) Cancer
Selenium is a mineral that is not present in most fruits and vegetables, but can be found in chickpeas. It plays a role in liver enzyme function, and helps detoxify some cancer-causing compounds in the body. Additionally, selenium prevents inflammation and also decreases tumor growth rates.
Chickpeas also contain folate, which plays a role in DNA synthesis and repair, thus preventing the formation of cancer cells from mutations in the DNA.
Saponins, which are phytochemicals present in chickpeas, prevent cancer cells from multiplying and spreading throughout the body.
6) Cholesterol
Research shows that including chickpeas in the diet lowers the amount of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in the blood.
7) Inflammation
Choline is a very important and versatile nutrient in chickpeas that help with sleep, muscle movement, learning and memory. Choline also helps to maintain the structure of cellular membranes, aids in the transmission of nerve impulses, assists in the absorption of fat and reduces chronic inflammation.3
8) Digestion and Regularity
Because of their high-fiber content, chickpeas help to prevent constipation and promote regularity for a healthy digestive tract.
9) Weight Management and Satiety
Dietary fibers are commonly recognized as important factors in weight management and loss by functioning as “bulking agents” in the digestive system. These compounds increase satiety and reduce appetite, making you feel fuller for longer and thereby lowering your overall calorie intake.
Consuming fruits and vegetables of all kinds has long been associated with a reduced risk of many lifestyle-related health conditions. Many studies have suggested that increasing consumption of plant foods like chickpeas decreases the risk of obesity and overall mortality, diabetes, heart disease and promotes a healthy complexion and hair, increased energy, overall lower weight.
Nutritional Breakdown of Chickpeas
One cup of cooked chickpeas contains 269 calories, 45 grams of carbohydrate, 15 grams of protein, 13 grams of dietary fiber, 4 grams of fat and 0 grams of cholesterol. A one-cup serving of raw chickpeas provides 50% of daily potassium needs, 2% vitamin A, 21% calcium, 13% vitamin C, 69% iron, 2% sodium, 55% vitamin B-6 and 57% magnesium. Additionally, chickpeas contain vitamin K, folate, phosphorus, zinc, copper, manganese, choline and selenium.
Besides being an excellent vegan and gluten-free source of protein and fiber, chickpeas also contain exceptional levels of iron, vitamin B-6 and magnesium.
Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins and are extremely important in ensuring that the body functions properly. Some, known as nonessential amino acids, can be produced by the body when they are needed. Essential amino acids, however, cannot be made in the body and, therefore, must be consumed in the diet.
Most non-animal sources of protein, including chickpeas, lack the essential amino acid methionine, while whole grains lack lysine. The combination of legumes with whole grains such as brown rice or whole-wheat bread or pasta produces a complete protein that contains all of the essential amino acids.
How to Incorporate More Chickpeas into Your Diet
Chickpeas are available year-round and are often found in grocery stores either dried and packaged or canned. They have a nutty flavor and buttery texture that allows them to be easily incorporated into any meal.
When preparing dried chickpeas, it is important to sort (pick out any small rocks or other debris that may have been wound up in the package), wash and soak them in water for about 8 to 10 hours before cooking in order to achieve optimum flavor and texture.
You can tell they are finished soaking when you can split them easily between your fingers. Be careful not to soak them for more than 12 hours, otherwise they become mushy and bland-tasting. Soaking dried legumes reduces the amount of time needed to cook them, and also helps remove some of the oligosaccharides that cause gastrointestinal distress. Once they are finished soaking, chickpeas are best cooked by simmering for a few hours until tender.
Wednesday, September 30, 2015
meaning of Association.......................with.
meaning of Association.......................with.
The rain drops from the sky, if it is caught in hands is pure enough for drinking. If it falls in gutter, it’s value drops so much that it can’t be used for even washing the feet. If it falls on hot surface, it perishes. If it falls on a lotus leaf, it shines like a pearl and finally, if it falls on an oyster, it becomes a pearl. The drops is same, but it’s existence worth depends on with whom............................................... it associates.
CONVINCING A WOMAN...................
CONVINCING A WOMAN...................
If you can convince a female in less than 5 minutes then she is your mom.
If you can convince a female in 15 minutes then she is your sister.
If you can convince a female in 30 minutes then she is your daughter.
If you can convince a female in 1 hour then she is your girl friend.
If you can convince a female in 3 hour then she is your lover.
And ultimately....
If you can't or don't even get a chance to convince a female then she is for sure..................... your wife...!!!
If you can convince a female in less than 5 minutes then she is your mom.
If you can convince a female in 15 minutes then she is your sister.
If you can convince a female in 30 minutes then she is your daughter.
If you can convince a female in 1 hour then she is your girl friend.
If you can convince a female in 3 hour then she is your lover.
And ultimately....
If you can't or don't even get a chance to convince a female then she is for sure..................... your wife...!!!
In this LIFE...........What have you missed???
In this LIFE...........What have you missed???
This beautiful and sad story is about a wife and husband, whose life reflections revolve around one important question. It teaches us a lot about life, relationships and what we should really hold dear in this life. Perhaps we too should ask the important question to ourselves every now and then as our life advances, to make sure we don't have any regrets.
In this LIFE what did you miss ? Asked a wife of her husband when she was 25........Despondently he replied..............I Missed a New Job Opportunity.......When she was 35, the husband angrily told her that, he had just missed the bus.......At 45 the husband sadly said......I missed the opportunity of seeing my close relative before his last breath. At 55 the husband said disappointedly............I missed a good chance to retire. At 65 the husband hurriedly replied.......I missed a dental appointment.And at 75 the wife did not ask any more..............The husband was kneeling in front of his sick wife...........remembering the questions she always asked him and this time He asked it of his wife.............and the wife with a SMILE & PEACEFUL LOOK replied...................IN THIS LIFE I DID NOT MISS HAVING "YOU"
The husband was in tears..............He always thought that they could be together forever...........He was always so busy with work and trifles...........so much so that he had never been thoughtful to his wife......................He hugged her tightly and said...............Over 50 years, how | had allowed myself to miss out on your deep LOVE for ME..........................
In the busy LIFE, there are many people who are always busy with work.................These people's lives revolve around their jobs only. These people spend all their time and health to meet social expectations...........they are unwilling to spend time on their health care...............And they MISS THEIR OPPORTUNITY to be with their children while they are growing up...............they neglect their LOVED ONE's who care for them, as well as their health.............And no one knows what's going to happen the next minute............LIFE is not permanent, always live IN THE NOW & Express gratitude to your LOVED ONES in words........show your care with actions.....& Treat every day as last episode of life.................In this way, when you are GONE, your loved ones will have nothing but...............joyful memories.
Tuesday, September 29, 2015
ON D A U G H T E R S.................
ON D A U G H T E R S.................
On the first day of their marriage, wife and husband agreed not to open the door for ANY visitor! That same day, the husband’s parents came to see them, and knocked on the door. Husband and the wife looked at each other... the husband wanted to open the door, but since they had an agreement, he did not, so his parents left. After a while, the same day, the wife’s parents came visiting. Wife and husband looked at each other, and even though they had an agreement, the wife with tears on her eyes whispered:- "I can’t do this to my parents", and she opened the door! Husband did not say anything. Years passed and they had 2 boys. Afterwards, they had a third child which was a girl. The father planned a very big and lavish party for the new born baby girl, and he invited everyone over. Later that night, his wife asked him what was the reason for such a big celebration for this baby, while we did not do so for the brothers! The Husband simply replied:- "because she is the one who will open the door for me!"
Daughters are so special... your little girl will hold your hand for only a little while... but will hold your heart for a life time. It's 'DAUGHTER'S WEEK', and if you are proud of your daughter, or being a daughter, send this to other people who have daughters or who are daughters.. as I just did...... Daughters are angels!
Happy daughter's week.
Daughter is not equal to...... Tension.............But In today's world Daughter is equal to Ten sons.
On the first day of their marriage, wife and husband agreed not to open the door for ANY visitor! That same day, the husband’s parents came to see them, and knocked on the door. Husband and the wife looked at each other... the husband wanted to open the door, but since they had an agreement, he did not, so his parents left. After a while, the same day, the wife’s parents came visiting. Wife and husband looked at each other, and even though they had an agreement, the wife with tears on her eyes whispered:- "I can’t do this to my parents", and she opened the door! Husband did not say anything. Years passed and they had 2 boys. Afterwards, they had a third child which was a girl. The father planned a very big and lavish party for the new born baby girl, and he invited everyone over. Later that night, his wife asked him what was the reason for such a big celebration for this baby, while we did not do so for the brothers! The Husband simply replied:- "because she is the one who will open the door for me!"
Daughters are so special... your little girl will hold your hand for only a little while... but will hold your heart for a life time. It's 'DAUGHTER'S WEEK', and if you are proud of your daughter, or being a daughter, send this to other people who have daughters or who are daughters.. as I just did...... Daughters are angels!
Happy daughter's week.
Daughter is not equal to...... Tension.............But In today's world Daughter is equal to Ten sons.
The ART & SCIENCE of................Parenting...........
The ART & SCIENCE of................Parenting...........
Your children are not your children.They are the sons and daughters of life's longing for itself.They come through you and not from you.And though they are with you,they belong not to you.You may give them your love but not your thoughts..........As they have come for their own sweet purpose.Children are individual souls who have come to experience life through us.We need to facilitate them and enhance their journey..that alone is our role..and certainly not to control or own them...........................
So What is parenting today?.......&...... How should we go about it? Let's follow some basic principles and it works like magic.......both for you and for your child(ren).
1.Respect the soul of your child.....They have their own dignity and do not affect it for sake of more eating,doing more homework,combing hair properly...give them feedback very gently and do not treat them roughly..I know it's easily said..but trust me,it's doable.and has to be done.
2.Teach them to make decisions and to live by the consequences they get out of the decisions they make.How to weigh the pros and cons.How to choose.How to take responsibility in what they choose and decide. Make them think & Don't think for them.Allow your children to make wrong decisions today..so that they learn now itself how to think and plan.
3.Do not compare your children with their siblings or others.Comparison....anger..... shouting and hitting will not take you or your child anywhere in life.It will only spoil the relationship.
Nothing is achieved through fear.temporarily it might look like victory but in the long run,it's the most damaging.Instead build strong communication and learn to speak about all matters to the children and discuss guide them with an open,friendly mindset.That also eases the energy at home as well as helps us build strong deep bond with the children.
4.Right languaging to the children.Parenting is not saying 'no' all the time.Reasoning and logic heart has to be applied and said yes or no.Learn to say yes to all small things in life..like...ordering pizza..choosing which movie to watch..what clothes to wear..Only then your NO will have value and impact.All we say becomes our reality..hence watch what you say to your children.As parents,let's bless them always and say all wonderful things to happen to them.
5.Live Show: We have to inculcate values and morals as an ongoing process by living showing.They learn imitate their parents.Hence we need to be their living role models than just advising all the time.
6.Encourage them in their interest areas.Academics alone is not everything.Help them develop in a holistic way.Today everything has scope of huge growth.Every area has great future.Identify their interest and passion and help them excel in that area.Help them go behind their dreams and preferences.When you thrust your thoughts into them forcibly, it's going to eject out and make them very sad,depressed and not the best in their life.Would you like that ??? It's going to make you very unhappy too.
7.Have the courage to face facts about your child and help them pursue what suits them in a happy way.
What is..................................IS.......Learn to accept your child with their strength weakness.And build from there on.
For every rule I am giving you today,I have broken each one of them..but I learnt..I figured out..picked up my pieces and becoming a better parent day by day because I know parenting is work in progress.Lets become aware about all we discussed now and mend our ways to happy parenting and happy growing up for our children.Happiness is key to life,..more than being right and more than being a strict and an obsessed parent.
Create a happy Home...the rest will naturally follow.
Wishing all PARENTS.....................A HAPPY PARENTING.
Compiled & Edited by JK
Thursday, September 24, 2015
HEALTH BENEFITS OF EATING "SUGAR APPLE......ALSO KNOWN AS "CUSTARD APPLE".........
HEALTH BENEFITS OF EATING "SUGAR APPLE......ALSO KNOWN AS "CUSTARD APPLE".........
Sugar apples are related to the fruit soursop, also called graviola. People describe their sweet, creamy and delicious taste as a cross between a coconut and a pear. Sugar apples are also known as custard apples, they are native to the West Indies, South America and many regions in Asia.
Their unique and mouth-watering flavor makes them a favorite fruit for many people. Once you get past the tough exterior which kind of looks like a rounded pinecone, you can start enjoying their delicious taste. Or you can add them to your smoothies – their creaminess will add richness to your healthy beverages..................Here are Some Health Benefits of Adding Sugar Apples to Your Diet:
Sugar Apples are Good for your Skin and Hair
They are excellent sources of vitamin A, a powerful antioxidant that will help you obtain shiny hair and healthy and young-looking skin. Traditional medicine applies the creamy flesh on skin problems, such as boils, to heal them.
They Promote Healthy Eyes
Vitamin A is also good for the eyes. Since vitamin A has antioxidant properties, it protects the cells of the cornea and retina from harmful free radicals.
They Help Promote Weight Gain
Not everyone wants to lose weight. The fact is that there are many people who have trouble putting on some weight. Consuming sugar apples on a regular basis can work wonders for them. These fruits will supply the body with healthy calories because–unlike many unhealthy foods and beverages on the market–they do not contain refined sugars.
Asthmatics can Benefit From Consuming Sugar Apples
Sugar apples are very rich in vitamin B6, which is known to prevent inflammation of the bronchial tube. Because of this, eating these fruits on a regular basis may help ward off asthma attacks.
They Lower Your Risk of Having a Heart Attack
Sugar apples contain magnesium, which considerably lowers the risk of a heart attack. Magnesium relaxes the cardiac muscles, and keeps them from being overworked.
They Help Regulate Your Blood Pressure
Sugar apples also contain the mineral potassium, which is very beneficial for the health of your cardiovascular system. It helps lower high blood pressure because it has the ability to relax the walls of your blood vessels. When you have a normalized blood pressure, your heart can go back to functioning optimally.
They Lower Bad Cholesterol
Sugar apples contain niacin that is known to boost the levels of good cholesterol in the body. They are also rich in fiber that sweeps bad cholesterol out of your body.
They Help Ward Off Anemia
A diet that’s lacking in iron can leave you with anemia because iron is important for the production of red blood cells. Sugar apples are rich in iron and can help you keep anemia at bay.
They Boost Your Energy
Sugar apples contain vitamin B1, or also known as thiamine. This vitamin is important because it helps convert food into energy your body may use. So grab a sugar apple if you need a dose of energy.
They Strengthen Your Bones
Calcium is not the only nutrient that can provide you with stronger bones. According to experts, magnesium is also necessary for strengthening your bones and warding off osteoporosis. Magnesium works by activating vitamin D, a crucial nutrient in promoting calcium absorption by the bones. And sugar apples are an excellent source of magnesium.
Tulsi (The Holy Basil Plant)......... The Queen of Herbs According to Ayurveda...................
Tulsi (The Holy Basil Plant)......... The Queen of Herbs According to Ayurveda...................
The plant synthesises a wide range of bioactive compounds, known for their anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-pyretic and anti-cancer properties.Indian scientists have deciphered the entire genetic make-up of Tulsi, a herb widely used for therapeutic purposes. The genome map will help in making new medicines using the plant.A multi-institutional team led by Sowdhamini Ramanathan from the National Centre of Biological Science, Bengaluru revisited the age-old knowledge of the plant and its medicinal effects in their laboratories.The plant synthesises a wide range of bioactive compounds, known for their anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-pyretic and anti-cancer properties.
These compounds are metabolites, compounds that are a by-product of plant metabolism, typically used for plant self-defence. These metabolites are very poorly understood because of lack of genomic information.
Sowdhamini and team have produced the first draft genome of O. tenuiflorum Krishna subtype, which is an important step in understanding and identifying the genes responsible for production of metabolites with medicinal properties.
“The sequence reveals the interesting pathways used by Tulsi to make ursolic acid, a medically important compound. If one could now use modern synthetic biology techniques to synthesise ursolic acid, it would be of great benefit,” said S. Ramaswamy, one of the researchers.
“This is the first report of draft genome sequencing of a plant species from NCBS and we hope to do more,” added Sowdhamini.
Referred as the “Queen of Herbs” and a symbol of purity, Tulsi, better known as Holy Basil, is a popular household name in India. Worshipped in the morning and evening, many Hindu families grow Tulsi in their courtyard as it is believed to bring longevity, happiness, purify the environment and bring peace in the home.
For herbal remedies, each and every part of this plant can be used in one way or another. Of the two main species readily available in India, the darker form of Tulsi known as Shyama has more medicinal values than the lighter one called Rama.
The Following are Some Benefits of Tulsi:
Increases mental health
High in anti-oxidants, preventing premature aging
Flavonoids protect cells from radiation and its harmful side effects
Effective on acne and psoriasis
As an anti-inflammatory, it helps reduce arthritic symptoms, decreasing pain and swelling
Reduces anxiety, depression and stress
Relieves constipation, stomach cramps, indigestion and flatulence
Enhances immunity in babies
Helps reduce symptoms of cold, cough, influenza, bronchitis, asthma, sinus infections
Prevents nausea
Provides relief from menstrual cramps
Reduces chances of food poisoning
Enhances the flavour of food
Chewing fresh Tulsi leaves or boiling them with tea reduces the effects of fever and common cold
Heals infections of the mouth
Used as a paste, it relieves the effects of insect bites
Regulates blood sugar
There is interest in using Tulsi seed oil for curing cancer as research shows the oil can slow progression and improve survival rate in animals with certain types of cancer.
Considered to be a divine plant in Ayurveda, Tulsi not only has medicinal properties but also carries spiritual significance for practitioners of this ancient system of medicine. It is considered to be a reincarnation of the goddess Tulsi, who offers divine protection from all ills.
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