STEVIA: Your Own Calorie-Free Natural Sweetener

  Family: Asteraceae Genus: Stevia Common Name: Stevia Rabaudiana, Sugar leaf, Candy leaf   Stevia is a perennial herb that reaches up to 50-80 cm  in height. The oblong aromatic leaves are times sweeter than traditional white sugar, containing neither calories nor carbohydrates. CULTIVATION Germination from seed is difficult, comparing to other aromatic plants; reason why most plants are grown from cuttings rather then from seeds. The plant requires rich well-drained soil and thrives in warm humid climates. Once established, Stevia is a low water, low maintenance plant, but tender young…

TULSI: The Golden Remedy of Ayurveda

  Family: Lamiaceae Genus: Ocimum Common Name: Ocimum Tenuiflorum, Holy Basil, Tulsi, Sacred Basil   Tulsi is an aromatic perennial plant in subtropical regions, while became an annual in cold and temperate climates, indoor can be grown all year round independently. losely related to Basil, it is widespread and cultivated throughout all Asia, for its religious and medicinal purposes. Tulsi shrub grows up to 50 cm in height and boasts stems which are covered with fine hairs. Leaves are opposite and ovate, ranging from green to purple depending upon the variety, and have slightly…

COLEUS FORSKOLHII: Properties and Benefits

  Family: Lamiaceae Species: Plectranthus barbatus Common Name: Forskolhii, Indian Coleus, Coleus Forskolhii, Coleus Barbatus   Coleus Forskolhii is a genus of perennial plants native to sub-tropical areas, they grow best in well-drained soil and warm climates exposed to sun. Their aroma’s similar to camphor and it’s extremely fragrant due to large amount of essential oils present. Leaves are ovate in shape and the spiked flowers are typical of the mint family. Unlike its ornamental relatives, Coleus forskohlii lacks the spectacular colored leaves. It has plain, bright green leaves and…