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    Thai Basil Krapao Holy Basil Tulsi Ocimum tenuiflorum

    By Thai-Eyes | July 12, 2010


    While the holy Basil Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum) has no culinary use in India,
    in Thailand the Thai Basil Krapao is the most important ingredient for
    the beloved hot & spicy stir-fried dish, called Pad Krapao.
    There are 2 variations of Krapao Thai Basil,
    the green Krapao Basil (Sri or Lakshmi Tulsi) with big leaves
    and the red or purple Krapao Basil (Krishna Tulsi) with smaller leaves.
    The taste of both varieties is similar
    and is often described as “peppery”.
    Krapao Holy Thai Basil can´t be replaced by another herb !

    In India Tulsi is cultivated for religious and medicinal purposes (Ayurveda).
    Many Hindus in India are growing Tulsi basil plants in front of their houses
    and next to Vishnu temples, as the plant signifies the presence of Vishnu
    or his incarnation Krishna and the wife of Vishnu, Lakshmi
    and their divine guardianship.
    In Thailand fried Krapao Thai basil leaves are served as a condiment
    for many dishes as fried or steamed fish, fried 100 year old eggs
    or fish or prawn cakes (Tord Man).

    Thai Basil Krapao, Holy Basil Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum)
    © Thai Eyes
    Image: Green and red, purple Thai Basil Krapao, Holy Basil Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum)
    Sri or Lakshmi Tulsi (green) and Krishna Tulsi (red, purple)
    Photographer: Kitisak “Nat” Jaidee

    In the traditional Indian ayurvedic medicine the holy Basil Tulsi is used as
    an herbal tea, fresh leaves, powder or extracts,
    for headache, colds, inflammations, stomach disorders
    and also for Malaria.
    Ocimum tenuiflorum has a strong anti-bacterial and antioxidant effect
    and reduces cholesterol levels.
    Hindus place a Tulsi Basil leaf under the tongue of their deceased
    to purify their sins.

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    Topics: Thaifood | 1 Comment »

    One Response to “Thai Basil Krapao Holy Basil Tulsi Ocimum tenuiflorum”

    1. Thai Recipe Pad Kra Pao | thai-eyes Says:
      July 12th, 2010 at 06:03

      [...] Thai Basil Krapao Holy Basil Tulsi Ocimum tenuiflorum While the holy Basil Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum) has no culinary use in India, in Thailand the Thai Basil Krapao is… [...]

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