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The enduring problem of kidney stone disease continues to afflict humans worldwide, with its recurrence being the most worrisome factor. Among the variety of stone-forming compounds, uric acid has received less attention despite being a significant contributor to the development of kidney stones. Throughout history, natural plant derivatives have served as a low-cost alternative for treating kidney stones. Ocimum tenuiflorum L. (Tulsi) is an indigenous medicinal plant primarily found in the Indian subcontinent and has gained recognition for its efficacy in managing various ailments, particularly kidney stones. The current investigation delves into the inhibitory capability of tulsi extract on in vitro uric acid crystallization. The addition of tulsi extract to synthetic urine resulted in a delay in the induction of uric acid crystallization and a decrease in the uric acid crystal size in a concentration dependent manner. At pH 5, a 19 fold increase in the induction time and a 3 fold decrease in the crystal size were observed when the concentration of tulsi extract was increased from 27.5 to 110 µg/mL. The current study effectively illustrates the inhibitory potential of tulsi extract in curbing uric acid crystallization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus infection starting from December 2019 raised global health concern. The negative effects of conventional medications, and the rise in antimicrobial resistance have prompted researchers to explore natural resources, particularly plants, which offer enormous potential as antiviral agents. Ocimum sanctum referred to as Tulsi, has been widely used in traditional Indian medicine. Several compounds with antiviral properties are present in essential oils and extracts multiple Ocimum species. Tulsi extracts are known to strengthen the immune system. Ocimum genus has been found to have antiviral properties against viruses such as Herpes Simplex Virus, Human Immunodeficiency Virus, Infectious Hematopoietic Necrosis Virus, Adenovirus, Enterovirus 71, Parainfluenza virus type 3, Hepatitis C virus, and SARS-CoV-2. The aim of this review is to summarize the evidence of the bioactive phytocompounds from Tulsi as an effective alternative for the treatment of infections caused by coronaviruses. In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, the search for alternative antiviral treatments has gained huge importance. This review not only highlights the potential of Ocimum sanctum as a valuable natural resource but also provides insights into the molecular interactions of its bioactive compounds with SARS-CoV-2 targets. These findings hold promise for the development of novel antiviral agents, addressing the need for effective treatments against coronaviruses. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Four different varieties of tulsi were taken for their characterization for identification of metabolites. • GCMS, LC-MS/MS, FTIR, HPLC techniques were used for identification of flavonoids, phytochemicals, functional groups, polyphenols. • This is the first report on four varieties of tulsi naming Krishna, Vishnu, Camphor and Lavanga are taken for characterization. • Identification of proximate composition, flavonoid content and polyphenol estimation done by using standard protocols. • This paper will be a good reference paper for those who are looking for characterization of secondary metabolites. Leaves from four varieties of tulsi (Camphor, Krishna, Lavanga and Vishnu) were collected, dried and extracts were prepared using different solvents such as acetone, water, dichloromethane, ethanol, hexane and methanol. The total solids content in dried leaf powder was highest in Lavanga and Camphor, while Krishna showed the least. The study revealed that various secondary metabolites such as polyphenols and flavonoids were present in tulsi leaf extracts. The HPLC profiling showed the presence of rosmarinic acid in all the extracts irrespective of the solvent extraction. The other polyphenols present in the tulsi leaf extracts were p-coumaric acid, isothymucin, proto-catechic acid and caffeic acid. The GC-MS analysis of the extracts revealed methyl eugenol in Krishna variety with all the solvents, Bornanone in Lavanga and Camphor varieties in all the solvent extracts and caryophyllene in Vishnu variety. The LC-MS/MS profile of Krishna variety of tulsi showed mallic acid, citric acid, rosmarinic acid and asiatic acid as major compounds. The LC-MS/MS profile of Camphor variety of tulsi showed major peaks of compounds like mallic acid, citric acid, gallic acid, chlorogenic acid and asiatic acid. The LC-MS/MS profile of Lavanga variety of tulsi showed mallic acid, citric acid, gallic acid, asiatic acid and sumaresinolic acid as major compounds. Similarly in case of Vishnu variety, mallic acid, citric acid, gallic acid, apigenin, and sumaresinolic acid were present in majority. These phytochemicals from natural plant sources are known to possess many health benefits and considered as safe. Hence, these bioactive compounds may be explored for possible application as nutraceuticals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In most cases, cancer develops due to abnormal cell growth and subsequent tumour formation. Due to significant constraints with current treatments, natural compounds are being explored as potential alternatives. There are now around 30 natural compounds under clinical trials for the treatment of cancer. Tulsi, or Holy Basil, of the genus Ocimum, is one of the most widely available and cost-effective medicinal plants. In India, the tulsi plant has deep religious and medicinal significance. Tulsi essential oil contains a valuable source of bioactive compounds, such as camphor, eucalyptol, eugenol, alpha-bisabolene, beta-bisabolene, and beta-caryophyllene. These compounds are proposed to be responsible for the antimicrobial properties of the leaf extracts. The anticancer effects of tulsi (Ocimum sanctum L.) have earned it the title of "queen of herbs" and "Elixir of Life" in Ayurvedic treatment. Tulsi leaves, which have high concentrations of eugenol, have been shown to have anticancer properties. In a various cancers, eugenol exerts its antitumour effects through a number of different mechanisms. In light of this, the current review focuses on the anticancer benefits of tulsi and its primary phytoconstituent, eugenol, as apotential therapeutic agent against a wide range of cancer types. In recent years, tulsi has gained popularity due to its anticancer properties. In ongoing clinical trials, a number of tulsi plant compounds are being evaluated for their potential anticancer effects. This article discusses anticancer, chemopreventive, and antioxidant effects of tulsi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present investigation was carried out in the year 2020 with an objective to unravel the effect of different shade intensities of green shade nets on leaf photosynthetic traits and secondary metabolites of four different Ocimum spp. Ocimum spp. namely O. tenuiflorum, O. sanctum, O. basilicum and O. gratissimum were kept under green shade net with variable shade intensities 35, 50, 75, 90% and open condition for 90 days. Data on various biochemical components viz., photosynthetic pigments, carotenoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, phenols and flavonoids were estimated from fully expanded leaves of all species at 30, 60 and 90 days intervals. Variable responses of different traits of photosynthetic pigments and secondary metabolites were observed in all Ocimum spp. under study. The trend was similar for all spp. and all the parameters under study. Total phenol and flavonoids increased with decreasing shade intensity i.e. maximum in control but higher intensity of light marks a decrease in chlorophyll pigments. Variation in shade intensity also affected the alkaloid and terpenoid content, maximum being at 35% shade intensity which was better than control. The present study reveals that Ocimum spp. possesses the ability to accurately adjust and alter their physiology and biochemical aspects under various shade conditions. This research also provides valuable information about optimum shade levels required during protected cultivation of Ocimum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tulsi (Holy basil, Ocimum tenuiflorum L., Lamiaceae), native to Asia, has become globalised as the cultural, cosmetic, and medicinal uses of the herb have been popularised. DNA barcoding, a molecular technique used to identify species based on short regions of DNA, can discriminate between different species and identify contaminants and adulterants. This study aimed to explore the values associated with Tulsi in the United Kingdom (UK) and authenticate samples using DNA barcoding. A mixed methods approach was used, incorporating social research (i.e., structured interviews) and DNA barcoding of Ocimum samples using the ITS and trnH-psbA barcode regions. Interviews revealed the cultural significance of Tulsi: including origins, knowledge exchange, religious connotations, and medicinal uses. With migration, sharing of plants and seeds has been seen as Tulsi plants are widely grown in South Asian (SA) households across the UK. Vouchered Ocimum specimens (n = 33) were obtained to create reference DNA barcodes which were not available in databases. A potential species substitution of O. gratissimum instead of O. tenuiflorum amongst SA participants was uncovered. Commercial samples (n = 47) were difficult to authenticate, potentially due to DNA degradation during manufacturing processes. This study highlights the cultural significance of Tulsi, despite a potential species substitution, the plant holds a prestigious place amongst SA families in the UK. DNA barcoding was a reliable way to authenticate Ocimum species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the study was to synthesize silver nanoparticles using Mentha X Piperita (Mint) + Ocimum tenuiflorum (tulsi) and to confirm its size and shape. 0.5 mg of tulsi and 0.5 mg mint were diluted in distilled water (100 ml). The dissolved formulation was heated for 15 min at 70°C and filtered. The filtrate was homogeneously combined with 0.9 mg of silver nitrate to prepare nanoparticles of silver (AgNPs). The characterization of the obtained nanoparticle was done using transmission electron microscopy. Using agar disc diffusion assay, the antibacterial property was evaluated against common oral microbes at different concentrations. Silver nanoparticles showed excellent antimicrobial activity against Streptococcus mutans at 100 μL concentration. At 25 and 50 μL, all microbes showed similar extent of antimicrobial activity when quantified. Tulsi and mint prove to be effective in synthesizing silver nanoparticles that have good antimicrobial activity against oral microbes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nematicidal efficacy of tulsi extracts were evaluated against root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) in the laboratory. Treatments comprised of aqueous and hot water extracts of tulsi at different concentration (10, 20 and 30 %) and control. The treatments were imposed on second stage juveniles of M. incognita and the mortality was recorded after 12, 24, 48 and 72 hours of incubation. Aqueous and hot water extracts of tulsi at different concentrations were found lethal to second stage juveniles of root-knot nematode. Aqueous extract of tulsi at 30 per cent caused the highest mortality of J2s at all the periods of exposure and it was significantly higher than all other treatments. The per cent mortality increased with increase in the concentration of extracts and exposure time. As compared to hot water extracts, aqueous extract of tulsi gave better results. The present study prooved nematicidal activity of tulsi extracts and suggests that tulsi extracts at higher concentration can be used for the management of root knot-nematode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ocimum species reveal a huge variation in growth, biomass production, oil composition and yield based on different growing conditions including light intensities. Therefore, here, we analyzed the light requirement of tulsi in the nontraditional area to harvest the maximum quantity of leaf and essential oil yield. An elite germplasm 'INGR18044 (DOS-1)' was evaluated for its quantitative and qualitative traits under green coloured shade-net of different light intensities. The fresh leaf yield, stem weight, root weight, root length, root diameter, dry leaf yield and essential oil yield from fresh leaves were found highest under control conditions. Sole crop compared with intercrop in agroforestry module, intercrop in fruit crop module and crop under shade-net (50%) conditions were compared and significantly higher yield was observed in control. However, the sole crop resulted in small sized leaves with early maturity. The total chlorophyll and carotenoid content were maximum in 90% shade-net intensity and minimum in control conditions; while, Methyl eugenol was maximum in control and it was found minimum under 90% shade-net intensity. The fresh leaf yield, seed yield, essential oil yield, number of PGs per unit leaf area and methyl eugenol (ME) content showed a negative relationship and leaf area, total chlorophyll and carotenoid content showed a positive relationship with increased shade-net intensities. The poor leaf yield and oil yield were observed under different SNIs(Shade Net Intensities) but large-sized leaves stayed green and a continuous supply of fresh leaves was made possible under shade conditions and as an intercrop crop. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To evaluate the aerobic and anaerobic antimicrobial efficacy of Ocimum Sanctum (Tulsi) essential oil and compare it with that of triple antibiotic paste (TAP) by collecting microbiological samples from the root canals of primary molars. Study Design: Forty children were selected for the study and were randomly divided into two groups of twenty each, namely, TAP group and O. sanctum group (basil). Six intracanal samples were collected for every patient, comprising of two each after access opening, irrigation and after 3 days of intracanal medicament placement. These samples were cultured in aerobic and anaerobic environment and later colony-forming units (CFUs) were counted and intragroup as well as intergroup comparison was done. Results: Analysis of the results showed that there was a statistically significant reduction in CFUs after using essential oil of O. sanctum as an intracanal medicament. Saline use also leads to a statistically significant reduction in CFUs irrespective of the intracanal medicament used. TAP showed better antibiotic properties in comparison with that of O. sanctum. Conclusion: Antibiotic use is often associated with the adverse effects and development of resistance due to injudicious use. O. sanctum can be used in cases of long-standing infection owing to its antimicrobial efficacy and anti-inflammatory potential as an intracanal medicament in primary teeth.

Ocimum gratissimum L. is an important medicinal species with several therapeutic applications. It is used in traditional medicine as a single drug and in formulations. We generated the complete chloroplast genome sequence of O. gratissimum by using Illumina paired-end sequencing data. The O. gratissimum chloroplast genome is 152,469 bp in length, containing a large single copy (LSC) region of 83,614 bp and a small single copy region (SSC) of 17,607 bp, separated by a pair of inverted repeats (IRs) of 25,624 bp. The genome contains 138 unique genes, including 85 protein-coding, 45 tRNA, and eight rRNA genes. Among them, six genes have one intron each, and two genes contain two introns. The overall GC content of the chloroplast genome is 37.8%, while the corresponding values of LSC, SSC, and IR regions are 35.6%, 31.7%, and 43.2%, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis with the complete chloroplast genomes of other related species revealed that O. gratissimum is fully resolved in a clade with other Ocimum species classified to the family Lamiaceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of medicinal plants in the United States is increasing. Holy basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum L. and Ocimum gratissimum L.), a medicinal herb native to India, has become increasingly popular for its therapeutic benefits. Traditionally, holy basil has been used to promote longevity by reducing stress and restoring balance to the body. Because it is easy to grow and adapts to a wide range of growing conditions, there is great potential for holy basil production in the southeastern United States. The purpose of this study was to evaluate holy basil varieties for harvestable weight and essential oil content. Fourteen varieties of holy basil were grown during the 2015 and 2016 seasons and compared. The main active compound in the holy basil essential oil fraction, eugenol, was quantitated and compared for each variety, because it is believed to be responsible for many of the health-promoting effects. Overall, there were significant differences in harvestable weights and essential oil yields among the varieties, and a significant effect of growing season. The eugenol content was highly variable among the varieties examined, with higher eugenol contents in 2016 than in 2015. The variety that had the overall highest yield, essential oil content, and eugenol concentration was PI 288779, a USDA accession, suggesting its use in future breeding research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To evaluate the aerobic and anaerobic antimicrobial efficacy of Ocimum Sanctum (Tulsi) essential oil and compare it with that of triple antibiotic paste (TAP) by collecting microbiological samples from the root canals of primary molars.Study Design: Forty children were selected for the study and were randomly divided into two groups of twenty each, namely, TAP group and O. sanctum group (basil). Six intracanal samples were collected for every patient, comprising of two each after access opening, irrigation and after 3 days of intracanal medicament placement. These samples were cultured in aerobic and anaerobic environment and later colony-forming units (CFUs) were counted and intragroup as well as intergroup comparison was done.Results: Analysis of the results showed that there was a statistically significant reduction in CFUs after using essential oil of O. sanctum as an intracanal medicament. Saline use also leads to a statistically significant reduction in CFUs irrespective of the intracanal medicament used. TAP showed better antibiotic properties in comparison with that of O. sanctum.Conclusion: Antibiotic use is often associated with the adverse effects and development of resistance due to injudicious use. O. sanctum can be used in cases of long-standing infection owing to its antimicrobial efficacy and anti-inflammatory potential as an intracanal medicament in primary teeth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a lack of information on the molecular characterization of Ocimum species and hence, efforts have been made under the present study to characterize 17 Ocimum genotypes belonging to 5 different species ( O. basilicum, O. americanum, O. sanctum, O. gratissimum and O. Polystachyon) through random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) and inter simple sequence repeats (ISSR) markers. PCR amplification using 20 RAPD primers generated a total of 506 loci, of which 490 (96.47 %) loci were found polymorphic. The PIC value for RAPD ranged from 0.907 (OPF 14) to 0.954 (OPC 11) with an average of 0.937. The ISSR primers generated a total of 238 loci, of them 234 (98.17 %) loci were polymorphic. The PIC value ranged from 0.892 (UBC 808) to 0.943 (ISSR A12) with an average of 0.923. The average Jaccard's similarity coefficient based on RAPD and ISSR analysis was 0.58 and 0.52, respectively. Clustering pattern of dendrogram generated using the pooled RAPD and ISSR data showed all Ocimum genotypes in their respective species groups at a cutoff value of 0.49 and 0.42, respectively. Many unique species-specific alleles were amplified by RAPD and ISSR markers. In both marker systems, a maximum number of unique alleles were observed in O. sanctum. The results of the present investigation provided valid guidelines for collection, conservation and characterization of Ocimum genetic resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary requirement for any valuable herbal product is an authentic plant species used in its formulation. In this study, we have attempted to develop a simple and cost effective PCR method for the identification of Ocimum basilicum and Ocimum tenuiflorum. For this purpose, we developed species-specific primers and PCR assays. The primers were designed from the chloroplast genome sequences, PCR methods were optimized and further tested for specificity and sensitivity. Methods have been validated using simulated blended materials to mimic the possible admixtures. Primers of both the species are found to be specific and sensitive enough to amplify 0.1 ng of DNA for O. basilicum whereas 0.5 ng of O. tenuiflorum. Duplex PCR assay is also optimized where, one can detect both the species in a single PCR reaction. The sensitivity of primers was further improved up to approximately 10–100 times with digital PCR assay. Chromatographic methods based on conventional chemical makers of Ocimum have also been investigated. Market samples labelled as 'Tulsi powder' were tested using PCR assay and chromatographic methods. Ursolic acid and oleanolic acid was detected in all the market samples whereas eugenol/methyleugenol has been detected inconsistently in the market samples. A comparison of results from molecular and chromatographic authentication methods suggested that both methods should be used in analysis to achieve maximum fidelity for the samples where there is a doubt. However, for the larger sample size, a rapid and cost-effective viable strategy is required. A duplex PCR assay developed in the current study is enough for the authentication of two Ocimum species, O. basilicum and O. tenuiflorum. • We developed species –specific primers for Ocimum basilicum and Ocimum tenuiflorum. • We also developed duplex and dPCR assays for detection of both the plant species. • Assays can be used for the detection of adulteration in "Tulsi" herbal products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The efficacy of tulsi (Ocimum sactum) and neem (Azadirachta indica) leaves extract as a growth promoter were studied in broiler. A total of 40 day-old broiler chicks were purchased from Kazi hatchery and after three days of acclimatization the chicks were randomly divided into four groups (n=10). No vaccination schedule was practiced and no antibiotic was added in ration of group A, B, C, and D respectively. Group A served control without any supplements while group B, C and D were supplemented with combination of tulsi and neem extract @ 1 ml, 2ml and 3 ml/liter of drinking water. Live body weight gain was recorded weekly up to 6th weeks and hematological studies were performed at 21st and 42nd day of experiments. At the end of 42nd day of experiment final body weight of group A, B, C and D were 1561± 12.10 g, 1698± 12.87 g, 1608± 12.04 g and 1763± 13.28 g, respectively. The birds of group D utilized their feed more efficiently among the treatment groups (p<0.05). The net body weight gain were, 1533± 11.98 g, 1443± 11.32 g and 1588± 12.10 g in treated groups compared to control group (1393± 11.07 g ) and total net profit per broiler was 19.08, 40.10, 20.68 and 45.07 Taka , respectively. Hematological parameterss (TEC, PCV, Hb and ESR) were not significantly changed among the treated and control group suggesting no side effects of herbal extracts in broiler. It can be concluded that tulsi and neem extract is economic and safe in broiler production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Ocimum gratissimum L. showed highest amount of oil and eugenol at flowering stage. • Ocimum sanctum L. showed significantly higher methyl cinnamate content in oil. • Ocimum basilicum L. harvested at flowering stage gave significantly higher linalool. • Ocimum basilicum was detected as main source for methyl chavicol content in oil. • Ocimum gratissimum showed negligible amount of methyl eugenol content in oil. The genus Ocimum displays excellent variability among the species and sub-species due to the highly cross-pollinated nature and interspecific hybridization. The present investigation was carried out to identify the commercially promising growth stage(s) in different Ocimum for exatraction of oil and bioactive compounds at heighest. A set of three cultivated species were evaluated to study the variation in morpho-physiological traits and essential oil composition harvested at three stages namely vegetative, flowering and seed setting stage. The experiment was conducted for three consecutive years in factorial randomized complete block design with three replicates. The analysis of variance exhibited that the individual effect of Ocimum species and growth stage along with their interaction effect was significant in all the morpho-physiological parameters and bioactive constituent of oil in a pooled analysis. Highest plant height (103.95 cm) was observed in O. gratissimum L. harvested at seed setting stage while harvesting at flowering stage exhibited maximum leaf area (26.80 cm2), oil (0.52 %) and eugenol content (85.82 %). Sweet basil harvested at seed setting stage disclosed maximum branches per plant (21.53) and leaves per plant (4949) although linalool content (47.99 %) was found highest in harvested at flowering stage. O. basilicum L. was detected a great source of methyl chavicol (7.48 %) though this species was weaker source for methyl cinnamate. Among the studied species, O. gratissimum showed a negligible amount of methyl eugenol content in oil. A positive correlation between the morpho-physiological traits, oil content and its constituents with the various growth stages were recorded. None of bioactive compounds exhibited any correlation with oil content. Principle component analysis revealed that of the total variation, O. gratissimum contributed maximum (61.58 %) variation followed by O. basilicum (35.36 %). The results of current study suggested that the different Ocimum species can be harvest at various growth stages to get the maximum yield and target chemical compounds based on the needy industrial value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]