TULASI : THE SACRED PLANT OF THE TEMPLES

Tulasi, commonly known as holy basil, is one of the sacred plants in the Indian spiritual and cultural heritage. It is more than a medicinal value;  Tulasi is considered a divine plant and forms a part of most temples in  Hinduism. The name Tulasi is derived from the Sanskrit words, which describes "the incomparable one" and is so deep-rooted with devotion,  which is commonly associated with Lord Vishnu.
Tulasi in the Temples

Tulasi occupies a very exalted position in Lord Vishnu temples, including those of his incarnations in the forms of Krishna and Rama. Often within the temple compound, or, in larger complexes, in a designated area named the Tulasi Vrindavan, there is a sacred Tulasi plant. The Tulasi  Vrindavan is a small raised platform, by its shape, a manifestation of  Goddess Tulasi's divine presence. Devotees offer their prayers and do parikrama around the Tulasi, as an embodied form of Lakshmi, the goddess of fortune.
Spiritual Significance

The presence of Tulasi in temples is not just for decoration. In Hindu mythology, Tulasi is worshipped as a goddess and is believed to be the consort of Lord  Vishnu. According to the legend, the offering of leaves of Tulasi to  Lord Vishnu or Krishna during worship increases spiritual progress and helps satisfy the desires. Sages use Tulasi leaves while performing rituals at temples quite often while making prasadam, and hence this also contributes to its sacredness.
Medicinal and Ritual Use

Besides its ritual importance, Tulasi has strong medicinal properties. In  Ayurveda, it is given as medicine to cure various diseases like common colds, infections, and digestive ailments. In the temples, Tulasi-water or leaves are distributed to the devotees as a process of purification and healing.

Thus, Tulasi is not only a plant but a sacred bridge connecting a devotee to the divine; its presence is an enduring symbol of faith, purity, and protection in temples.