Chemical constituents and pharmacological action of Ocimum sanctum (Indian holy basil-Tulsi)

Abstract

The plant of Oscimum sanctum commonly known as “Tulsi”, belong to Lamiaceae family. It is an erect, much branched, fragrant and erected plant attaining a height of about 20-50 cm. Different parts of the plant are used in Ayurveda and Siddha systems of medicine for prevention and cure of many illnesses like cough, influenza, common cold, headache, fever, colic pain, bronchitis, asthma, hepatic diseases, fatigue, skin diseases, arthritis, digestive disorders. The present paper is an attempt to provide a detailed botanical description, taxonomy, traditionally used and various pharmacological activity study of the plant.