Tulsi (Ocimum Sanctum Linn.): AN AYURVEDIC AND CONTEMPORARY REVIEW

Abstract

Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum Linn. Family - Lamiaceae) has been revered in India for over five thousand years, as a healing balm for body, mind and spirit, and is known to bestow an amazing number of health benefits. It is a me- dicinal herb used in the indigenous system of medicine. Tulsi has been adored in almost all ancient ayurvedic texts for its extraordinary medicinal properties. It is pungent –bitter(tikta) in taste and hot (Ushna), light(laghu) and dry(ruksa) in effect. Its seeds are considered to be cold in effect. The roots, leaves and seeds of Tulsi possess several medicinal properties. Ayurvedic texts categorise Tulsi as a stimulant, aromatic and antipyretic. In the pre- sent review, the reported scientific activity of Tulsi is compiled and collected from different compendia and avail- able literature presented systematically. In the present review, the references related to Tulsi are collected and compiled from different Ayurvedic texts, Modern research articles and other relevant compendia. This review is presented in a systematic manner which will help the researchers as well as clinicians dealing with Tulsi to know its proper usage as this herb is seemed to be highly valuable, possessing many pharmacological/medicinal proper- ties according to Ayurveda as well as modern aspects. Keywords: Ayurveda, Drug Research, Holy basil, Immunity, Tulsi