How to Remove Fluoride from Water with Holy Basil
Written by: Gene Fitzgerald // Last Updated: Jan 4, 2023
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Fluoride is a salt that is added to many water supplies to promote dental health. However, too much fluoride could be harmful and lead to a condition called fluorosis, which causes discoloration and weakening of the bones and teeth.
For this (and other) reason, some people choose to remove fluoride from their water using holy basil, also known as tulsi.
In this article, we will discuss whether or not holy basil is indeed an effective way to remove fluoride from water, and if there are other ways you can use at home to get rid of fluoride.
Contents
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Key Takeaways
- Some studies have shown that holy basil can effectively remove fluoride from water (42% to 75% reduction). It is important to note that more research is needed to confirm these results.
- Add holy basil leaves or a fresh stem to boiling water.
- Boil for 10-20 minutes.
How to Remove Fluoride from Water with Holy Basil
Holy Basil is a plant that is native to India. The leaves of the plant have been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine to treat various conditions.
Some studies have shown that holy basil can effectively remove fluoride from water (while some studies suggest the opposite).
- One study found that when holy basil leaves were added to boiling tap water, they were able to remove up to 42% of the fluoride present.
- Another study observed that a fresh holy basil stem in boiling water has a fluoride removal efficacy of 75% while a dry stem had 74%.
While this is some evidence that holy basil can remove fluoride from water, it is important to note that far more research is needed to confirm these results.
Additionally, holy basil is not the only plant that has been shown to remove noticeable amounts of fluoride from water. Other studies have showcased the efficacy of other plants, such as Japanese camellia, Japanese cheesewood, and saccharum officinarum.
To remove fluoride from water using holy basil, simply add a few leaves or stems of the plant to a pot of boiling water. Allow the water to boil for 10-20 minutes, then remove the holy basil and drink the water as you would normally.
If Tulsi Does Not Remove 100% Fluoride from Water, What Does?
Further research is needed for tulsi to be considered a reliable method for decreasing fluoride content in public tap water. In the meantime, there are several other methods that can be used to remove fluoride from a water supply.
Water Purification
A proven way to remove fluoride from your water is to purify it using a water purification system. Many types are available on the market, and they vary in price and effectiveness. Some are specially designed to removed specific types of water contaminants, such as fluoride, while others are designed to remove all types of impurities from water.
To find a water purifier that is right for you, it is important to research the different types available and their fluoride reduction rates. Once you have selected a purifier, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation and use.
Reverse Osmosis
A reverse osmosis system is very effective at removing fluoride from water. This process works by forcing water through a semipermeable membrane among other filter stages, which removes a broad range of impurities, including fluoride, from the water.
Bone Char Carbon
Bone char carbon is derived from charred animal bones. It has shown to absorb fluoride from water at a very high level. The fluoride gets trapped on the surface of the filter media.
Distillation
Distillation is a process in which water is heated until it evaporates, leaving behind contaminants such as fluoride. The steam created by the distillation process is then condensed back into water, which is safe to drink.
This is perhaps the most effective yet inexpensive way to remove fluoride from water. However, the process is time-consuming, and it is not recommended for large volumes of water.
Further Reading:
AA
AA stands for activated alumina. Similar to bone char carbon, it absorbs fluoride ions out of water, around 90% of them.
Activated alumina is a form of aluminum oxide, treated to increase its fluoride removal capacities.
If you have any thoughts about the question, how to remove fluoride from water with holy basil, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below!
About the Author Gene Fitzgerald
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