Cold & cough12 min
Tulsi Leaf Steam
Tulsi leaves dropped into hot water, with the steam breathed from a safe distance under a loose towel.
Tulsi leaf steam at a safe distance
Fresh tulsi leaves go into a bowl of hot water that is already off the stove. You sit back and breathe the steam from a safe distance. A towel, if you use one, stays loose and leaves a gap for air. The face does not go into the bowl, and no essential oil is added.
This is not for small children. Steam scalds, and a towel over a child is unsafe. Stop if you feel dizzy or too hot. A blocked nose or cough beyond a few days, fever, or wheeze needs a doctor, not a closer lean into the bowl.
Ingredients
- A handful of fresh tulsi leaves
- A bowl of hot water
- A cotton cloth or towel
How to prepare
- Rinse the tulsi and drop the leaves into hot water that has stopped boiling, off the stove.
- Set the bowl on a steady table and sit so your face stays a safe distance above it.
How to use
- Drape the cloth loosely if you wish, but leave an opening for air. Breathe gently for a few minutes.
- Stop at once if you feel dizzy, too hot, or if the steam stings.
- Once a day is enough while the nose feels blocked. Not for small children.
Helpful habits
- Rolling boil is too fierce. Use water that has settled off the boil.
- Keep the bowl on a table, not on your lap.
Precautions
- Steam only at a safe distance. Not for small children.
- Do not put your face in the bowl and do not add essential oil.
- A blocked nose or cough beyond a few days, fever, or wheeze needs a doctor.
Frequently asked questions
How close should the face be?
- Far enough that the steam feels gentle. Never put the face in the bowl.
Can a small child take this steam?
- No. Steam and a towel are not safe for small children.
Does tulsi steam cure a cold?
- No. It is a short comfort for a blocked nose. Lasting symptoms need a doctor.
