Abstract

OCIMUM SANCTUM (TULSI); PROTECTOR OF LIFE: A REVIEW

Pranali Wasate*, Navnath Kashid and Rohini Kulkarni Pandhare

Abstract

Ocimum sanctum, popularly known as Tulsi, one of the most important plants in India. It is of both religious and medicinal value and is found to grow well in moist soil. The plant possesses antifertility, anticancer, antidiabetic, antifungal, antimicrobial, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, antiemetic, antispasmodic, analgesic, adaptogenic, diaphoretic, antimalarial, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic properties. The plant having important constituents, Eugenol (1-hydroxy-2- methoxy-4-allylbenzene), is responsible for its myriad therapeutic properties, including antiarthritic effects. Additionally, linolenic acid, a constituent of Tulsi oil, is also shown to possess anti-inflammatory activity. The present review article includes the description of plant, distribution, botanical characteristics, chemicals, Antibacterial, Antifungal and traditional uses.

Keywords: Ocimum sanctum, Tulsi, Phytoconstituents, Antimicrobial, Medicinal Properties.