Even those persons who have no relation with transcendental devotion and transcendental moods, whether in India or elsewhere, worship Tulasī. For instance, in America people are planting Tulasī everywhere — in their gardens, rooftops, and so on. They have discovered that if Tulasī is planted somewhere, then, by her influence, any dangerous germs in that vicinity are automatically killed. Also, by wearing Tulasī beads around the neck, blood pressure is automatically controlled. Nowadays there is no medicine for cancer. However, they are now researching and finding out that if one takes Tulasī with Ganges water, and touches it to a śālagrāma-śilā, it manifests a potency that can reduce the effects of cancer. In fact, it has even been stated in scripture that all types of diseases can be eradicated just by the aroma of Tulasī.
Not only that, even on the subtle platform so much benefit can be derived by wearing Tulasī. For instance, one may have many problems that would normally cause so much mental agitation. However, by the potency and grace of Tulasī-devī, these problems become inconsequential.
February 13, 2002 Murwillumbah