Abstract

A CRITICAL REVIEW ON THERAPEUTIC USES OF TULSI - OCIMUM SANCTUM L.

*Dr. Pranali S. Shinde and Dr. Sandeep T. Shinde

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Abstract

Tulsi, also known as holy basil in English, is indigenous to the Indian continent and is highly respected for its medicinal uses in the Ayurvedic and Siddha medical systems. Tulsi is used for treatment of many diseases individually or in combination with other herbs either internally or externally. Tulsi have multiple therapeutic actions such as anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anti-viral, adaptogenic, anti-ulcer, cardio protective and immunomodulatory. Some studies have also revealed its anti-diabetic, cholesterol reducing properties. The Rama Tulsi is the effective in ailments of respiratory system like cold, fever, bronchitis and cough. It is also very effective in treatment of indigestion, headache, hysteria, insomnia, malaria and cholera. Recent studies suggest that Tulsi may be a COX-2 inhibitor, like many modern painkillers, due to its high concentration of eugenol (1-hydroxy-2 methoxy-4-allylbenzene). The oil extracted from the Karpoora Tulsi is mostly used in the herbal toiletry. Its oil is also used against the insects and bacteria. Tulsi can not only keep flu like viral infections at bay but also help in fast recovery of an afflicted person. The anti-flu property of Tulsi has been discovered by medical experts across the world quite recently. Tulsi improves the body's overall defense mechanism including its ability to fight viral diseases.

Keywords: Tulsi, Analgesic, Antimicrobial, Anti-viral, Cardio protective, Immunomodulatory.