Ocimum sanctum linn (TULSI) - an overview

Ocimum sanctum is a widely branched, erect, stout and aromatic herb, about 75 cms high. This small herb is found throughout India and is cultivated near Hindu houses and temples. The leaves, seeds and root of this plant have been used in Ayurvedic medicine. The chemical composition of Tulsi is highly complex, containing many nutrients and other biological active compounds. Due to its inherent botanical and biochemical complexity, Tulsi standardization has, so far, eluded modern science. Perhaps best known of many active compounds that have been identified and extracted are eugenol (an essential oil) and ursolic acid. Many scientific studies have indicated that Ocimum sanctum has anti- stress, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, immunomodulating, antiinflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, antipyretic, antidiuretic, antidiabetic, antimalarial and hypolipidemic properties with a wide margin of safety. In Ayurvedic medicine, Tulsi is being used either alone or in combination with others in various clinical conditions like anxiety, chronic cough, bronchitis, fever, snake and scorpion bites.