Why is Tulsi considered sacred in Indian tradition? Why is this small plant kept in courtyards, offered in prayer, and connected with Shri Vishnu and Shri Krishna? WHY IS TULSI SACRED? explores the story, beliefs, traditions and science surrounding one of India's most familiar sacred plants. From the Tulsi Vrindavan and daily household practices to Tulsi Vivah, pradakshina, Tulsi leaves offered in devotion, and the traditional stories associated with Vrinda, this book looks at how Tulsi became deeply woven into Indian religious and family life. The book also explores what Tulsi actually is from a botanical point of view, its long connection with Ayurveda, and what modern scientific research has studied about the plant. Religious tradition, cultural practice, botany and modern science are kept distinct throughout the book. Different traditions and regional practices are acknowledged where they vary, and scientific findings are presented with their limitations. At its heart, this is the story of how a small plant became part of prayer, family life, devotion and generations of Indian tradition.A simple plant. A long tradition and a story worth understanding.