We can’t see a house without Tulasi plant in southern India. It may sound peculiar, but is true beyond doubt that Tulasi or Sri Tulasi (basil leaves) are observed to be a remedy for fluoride-stricken people. it is definitely a boon to lakhs of people affected by fluoride water.

Nalgonda, Kadapa and some other parts of the State had lakhs of worst-affected people due to heavy dosage of fluoride in the underground water.

According to reports, it is estimated that 25 lakh people were badly affected with fluoride water alone in Nalgonda district. It is a common feature in rural areas in the district people with twisted hands and legs, bended bodies and people crawling on the hands. Children are among the worst sufferers and are seen walking in villages with the help of sticks like aged people.

10,000 people crippled

Excess fluoride has turned the ground water into a slow poison especially in rural areas of Nalgonda district. About 885 villages are affected and 10,000 people are totally crippled. A laboratory test proved that the Tulasi leaves are best bet to dilute fluoride content in water.

Preliminary tests proved anti-fluoride qualities

According to A Muktheswara Rao, District Collector of Nalgonda district, a glass of water has 7.6 ppm of fluoride content. After dipping Tulasi leaves for about eight hours, the fluoride content has been come down to 1.2 ppm. An expert (name not mentioned) who conducted the tests said the basil leaf has a quality of grasping fluoride content and releasing chloride. He says Tulasi leaves are the cheapest medicine for purifying the fluoride water for people of Nalgonda.

Now the Nalgonda district administration stepped up campaign in rural areas to create awareness among the rural people. In the first phase, it has decided to organise massive awareness programmes to use Tulasi leaves by at least 3.50 lakh people. Besides, people will be advised to grow Tulasi plants on large-scale basis for distribution.

-Sakshipost