Ocimum sanctum: Role in diseases management through modulating various biological activity

Abstract

Medicinal plants are used commonly by traditional medical practitioners in their daily practice for the treatment of various diseases. The treatment based on natural products are preferred because they are more economic and have lesser side-effects. In this regards, Ocimum sanctum commonly known as holy basil or tulsi is used in the diseases cure and treatment since ancient time. Ocimum sanctum has been proven health promoting effect through modulation of various biological activates. Ocimum sanctum shows therapeutic role through its anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-diabetic, hepatoprotective and wound healing effects. Besides, the constituents of holy basil have been confirmed to have a noteworthy effect in cancer management through inhibition of cancer development and progression. Further, the synergistic effect of Ocimum sanctum component with anti-cancer drugs has been proven as it reduces the growth of cancer. Molecular mechanism and human clinical trials based should be performed to avail its role in diseases cure and management. This review comprehensively summarizes the role of holy basil in disease management through in vivo and in vitro study.