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  • Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum L.): A Comprehensive Review on Medicinal Potential, Cultural Importance, Essential oil Chemo-diversity and Genetic Basis of Purple coloration

  • 1School of Botany, Maa Shakumbhari University, Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India- 247120
    2Department of Botany, Chaudhary Charan Singh University, Meerut, India - 250004
    3Directorate of Environment, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India-226010
    4Department of Biotechnology, Amity Institutes of Biotechnology, Amity University of Haryana, Manesar, Gurugram, India 122413
     

Abstract

Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum), a well-known medicinal plant has been extensively used in traditional systems of medicine. In recent time, the curiosity about the medicinal properties of Tulsi has increased. The current review articles encompass the pharmacological aspects of Tulsi on human health, including neuroprotective, and anticancer properties; reports of anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anti-stress, anti-fertility, and anti-diabetic potential of O. tenuiflorum . In this review, the essential oil chemo-diversity of O. tenuiflorum has also discussed. Furthermore, the molecular mechanism of action of essential oils and genetic basis of purple coloration has been deliberated in detail. This comprehensive review deals with the most recent scientific findings on potential uses of Tulsi plant in human health.

Keywords

Lamiaceae, Tulsi, Ocimum, Anthocyanin, Essential oil, Eugenol, Taxonomy, Apoptosis

Introduction

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Lamiaceae family is the sixth largest family of flowering plants which composed of approximately 236 genera and about 7000 species[1-4]. It is globally significant for its essential oils, culinary herbs, traditional medicines, and ornamental value. The rich profile of secondary metabolites supports lucrative agricultural, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industry applications. The plants of Lamiaceae also plays a central ecological role in pollinator support[5]. The family  Lamiaceae is famous for its powerful, distinct aromas. This family provides ubiquitous herbs used to flavor dishes and also for extraction of essential oils. Plants including Basils (Ocimum L.), Mint (Mentha L.), Bushmint (Hyptis Jacq.), Beefsteak plant (Perilla frutescens (L.) Britton),  Chia (Salvia hispanica L.), Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus Spenn.), Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis L.) Patchouli (Pogostemon Desf.), Thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.), Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia Mill.), Cuban oregano or Indian Borage (Coleus amboinicus Lour.) and Oregano (Origanum vulgare L.) have been in use for a long time. These plants define the taste of countless global cuisines[6,7,8]. Represented widely in botanical therapeutics, these plants are known for synthesizing characteristic volatile essential oils with potent antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. They are essential in traditional medicine, aromatherapy, and modern drug discovery experiments for treating ailments ranging from cardiovascular issues to pain management. Plants in this family produce highly concentrated essential oils—stored in specialized leaf hairs called glandular trichomes—which are released when the leaves are crushed or brushed[9,10].

Genus Ocimum L. (Commonly known as Basils) are an important group of aromatic species in subfamily Nepetoideae (Dumortier) Luerssen. of family Lamiaceae. Cultivated for thousands of years, its history spans profound cultural reverence in India, traditional medicinal uses in Africa, and widespread culinary uses in Europe [11]. The genus Ocimum includes several species such as O. tenuiflorum L., O. gratissimum L., O. basilicum L., O. kilimandscharicum Gürke, O. americanum L., Ocimum campechianum Mill. and O. × africanum Lour., which are cultivated worldwide for their essential oil, medicinal and culinary uses. The name Ocimum comes from the Ancient Greek word ōkimon, which implies to basil [12,13]. The common name "basil" is derived from the Greek word basilikos, meaning "royal" or "kingly," as in ancient times this herb was used in making of royal perfumes.

Hinduism venerates the Tulsi plant as a sign of devotion, purity, regard and heavenly protection[14]. Tulsi leaves are regarded as earthly embodiment of the goddess Lakshmi, the wife of Lord Vishnu, and no traditional worship of Vishnu or Krishna would be complete without Tulsi [15]. The “Padma Purana” claims that Tulsi was the embodiment of Vrinda, a highly esteemed devotee. She became the sacred plant because of her undying devotion to Vishnu. This mythology is embodied into reality, through distribution of members of Ocimum genus found in the vicinity of famous Hindu shrines. During the Tulsi Vivah festival, which marks the auspicious conclusion of the Chaturmas era, it is customary to marry the Tulsi plant to Shaligram, a precious stone that represents Lord Vishnu [16].

Medicinal plants are widely employed by traditional medical practitioners for the treatment of various ailments. Natural product based therapies are preferred over synthetic drugs due to their cost-effectiveness, easy availability, and fewer side effects. The leaves, seeds, and roots of Tulsi (O. tenuiflorum) have been used extensively in Ayurvedic medicines. Traditionally, Tulsi is recognized for its diverse medicinal properties and considered as “Herb for all problems”. Two forms of Tulsi are Krishna Tulsi (purple) and Ram Tulsi (green), both of which possess useful chemical compositions and therapeutic values [17]. Tulsi has been used to treat cold, cough, malaria, dengue, bronchitis, asthma, sore throat, influenza, cardiovascular disorders, eye diseases, oral infections, insect bites, stress, and kidney stones [18,19]. In this context, O. tenuiflorum, or Tulsi, has been used as a safer herb remedy for disease prevention and treatment. The use of Tulsi demonstrated significant health-promoting effects through the modulation of multiple biological activities. Scientific studies have established its therapeutic potential including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, and wound-healing properties [8,20,21]. In addition, bioactive constituents of Tulsi have shown remarkable potential in cancer management by inhibiting cancer initiation, development, and progression[22]. Studies also indicate a synergistic effect of Tulsi components when used alongside conventional anticancer drugs, which leads to reduced tumor growth [23]. However, further molecular-level investigations and human clinical trials are necessary to fully validate its role in chronic disease prevention and management. This comprehensive review summarizes and highlights the medicinal importance, essential oil chemo-diversity, cultural importance and genetic basis of coloration of purple and green forms of O. tenuiflorum (Tulsi).

Genus Ocimum in India:

Indian species (According to Plants of the world online database)-

  1. O. tenuiflorum L. (Holy Basil, common pot herb in India).
  2. O. gratissimum L. (Shrubby Basil, Tree Basil, Clove Basil).
  3. O. americanum L. (Growing wild all over India).
  4. O. basilicum L. (Sweet Basil, common pot her, cultivated throughout India).
  5. O. x africanum Lour. (Natural Hybrid between O. basilicum and O. americanum).
  6. O. kilimandscharicum Gurke (Kilimanjaro basil).
  7. O. filamentosum Forssk. (Growing as Wild).

Taxonomic treatment:

Ocimum tenuiflorum L. Sp. Pl.: 597 (1753). Type: Lectotype Linn. Herbarium 749.13(microfiche). (http://linnean-online.org/6666/)

Synonyms: Ocimum sanctum L., Mant. Pl. 1:85 (1767) as Ocymum; Type: Cultivated; Lectotype: Linn. Herbarium 749.7(microfiche) (http://linnean-online.org/6660/). Ocimum hirsutum Benth., In Wallich Pl. Asiat. Rar. 2: 14 (1830) as Ocymum Type: India, Courtallum, Wallich Ctalogue 2717A (Isolectotype: K). Ocimum sanctum L. var. Hirsutum (Benth.) Hook.f., Fl. Brit. India 4: 609 (1885). As hirsuta. Type: as of Ocimum hirsutum Benth. Ocimum villosum Roxb., Hort. Bengal. 44 (1814)  nomina nuda; Fl. Ind. ed. 1832, 3: 13 (1832) as Ocymum.  Ocimum tomentosum Lam., Encycl. 1: 387 (1785) as Ocymum tomentosum; Type: Lamarck (P-LA, microfiche).

Vernacular names: Tulsi, Tulasi, Holy basil, Sacred tulsi, Sri Tulsii, Visnuvallabha, Krishna Toolsai, Haripriya, Trittavu, Nala-tirtava. In India it is known as ‘Queen of Herbs’.

Distribution: Tropical part of the world mainly India, Africa, South east China, Cambodia, Philippines, Sri Lanka, West Asia to Arabia, Malaya to Australia (Flora of British India).

Etymology: Latin-‘tenuiflorum’ referred to its slender nature of flowering parts. Latin-sanctum=holy in English.

Description:

Erect much branched aromatic herb, 30-70cm tall, base woody, with multicellular and unbranched soft hairs all over the plant, green or purple. Leaves opposite, green or purple, petiolate, oblong, elliptic, acute, entire or somewhat serrate, hairs present on both surfaces, gland dotted. Inflorescence loose, slender, 6.8-8-inch, 1.6 mm wide. Bracts sessile, shorter than calyx, 4.5-3.5 mm, hairy on both surfaces, cordate or broadly ovate, with acuminate apex 0.5 mm. Pedicels about 4 mm. Calyx at anthesis 4 mm, enlarged in fruit to 7.2 mm, 4mm wide, hairy, glandular, long hairs at the base of calyx, inside glabrous. Corolla white or purple, 4.5 mm long and 3mm wide;  tube on lower side glabrous, inflated part with short glandular hairs, lobes on outer side hairy. Stamens exerted, posterior pair with hairs on lower side of filaments. Ovaries glabrous, 4.5 mm long, style glabrous, stigma bifid. Nutlets brown ellipsoid (Figure 1 & 2).

 

Figure 1. O. tenuiflorum, A. Front view of flower showing lobes of corolla; B. Complete flower.

 

 

Figure 2. O. tenuiflorum, A. Habit; B. & C. Flowering; D. Fruiting twig.

Cultural importance:

Tulsi considered as one of the most sacred and revered plant in Indian culture. It is worshipped in Hindu religion and is regarded as a symbol of purity, devotion, and spiritual wellness. According to Hindu mythology, Tulsi is believed to be an earthly manifestation of Goddess Lakshmi, the consort of Lord Vishnu. Because of this belief, the plant is often planted in home gardens and near temples [24]. Many families perform daily prayers and offer water, flowers, and lamps to the Tulsi plant during morning and evening worship. It is believed that worshipping Tulsi brings peace, prosperity, and protection from negative energies. Tulsi leaves are considered essential in the worship of Lord Vishnu and Lord Krishna. Devotees offer Tulsi leaves during prayers, rituals, and festivals because they are believed to please these deities greatly. In many religious ceremonies, food offerings are considered incomplete without Tulsi leave [24]. Tulsi malas (garlands made from Tulsi stems) are also worn by devotees for spiritual purification and devotion. One of the important cultural ceremonies associated with Tulsi is “Tulsi Vivah,” celebrated mainly in the Hindu month of Kartik (October–November). In this ritual, Tulsi is symbolically married to Lord Vishnu or Krishna. The ceremony marks the beginning of the Hindu marriage season in many regions of India [25]. Family members often light lamps near the plant in the evening and circumambulate it as part of daily rituals. Tulsi is valued not only for religious reasons but also for its environmental benefits. It is believed to purify the air and repel insects because of its aromatic essential oils. Traditionally, people considered Tulsi as a plant that creates a positive and healthy air around homes and temples [26].

Ethnomedicinal and Ayurvedic Significance:

O. tenuiflorum (most commonly known as O. sanctum) has been used for thousands of years in Ayurveda due to its extensive healing properties. Often referred to as the “Elixir of Life,” Tulsi holds immense religious, spiritual, and medicinal importance [27]. Ancient Ayurvedic texts such as the Charaka Samhita mention Tulsi for its therapeutic potential [28]. Tulsi is one of the finest examples of Ayurveda’s holistic approach to health. It is known to balance Kapha and Vata doshas and is believed to penetrate deep tissues, normalize bodily functions, and enhance immunity [29,30]. Tulsi is considered an adaptogenic herb, helping the body adapt to physical, chemical, and emotional stress while maintaining internal balance [26]. It is characterized by a strong aroma and a slightly bitter and pungent taste due to presence of eugenol. Ayurvedic practitioners believe Tulsi promotes longevity, vitality, and overall well-being. Traditionally, it has been consumed in various forms such as herbal tea, dried powder, or fresh leaves. Dried Tulsi leaves have also been used for centuries to protect stored grains from insect infestation [28,31]. Tulsi extract can be incorporated into herbal mouthwash formulations because of its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties [26].

Major phytochemicals and essential oil chemo-diversity:

For assessment of essential oil chemo-diversity seven research works were consulted (Table 1). From the results of these works it has been reported that the essential oil of O. tenuiflorum is primarily Phenylpropanoid rich. Eugenol and methyl eugenol forms the major percentage fraction of total essential oil. However,  Monoterpenoids constitute highest in term of number of different chemical entities. According to five research works consulted (Germany, Australia, USA, Brazil, and Iran), O. tenuiflorum essential oil is eugenol rich. Two studies from India showed different scenario, one from South India found to be Methyl eugenol rich and other from Northern India, Methyl chavicol rich. Extracts obtained from the fresh leaves and stems of O. tenuiflorum contain several phenolic compounds known for their antioxidant properties. These include cirsilineol, circimaritin, isothymusin, apigenin, and rosmarinic acid, along with significant amounts of eugenol. Other constituents such as carvacrol and the sesquiterpene hydrocarbon caryophyllene are also present. Additionally, two flavonoids orientin and vicenin have been isolated from the aqueous leaf extract of O. tenuiflorum. Tulsi contains a wide range of bioactive secondary metabolites. These phytochemicals are responsible for its medicinal properties. Major phytochemicals of essential oil  of O. teuiflorum are eugenol, methyl eugenol, β-elemene and E-caryophyllene, β-caryophyllene [32]. Eugenol, methyl eugenol and caryophyllene are most widely distributed and occurs in higher amount among the population of O. tenuiflorum [33]. Beside these essential oil components, Ursolic acid is also a major phytochemical constituent of O. tenuiflorum  leaves [34-37]. Further, eugenol (principal component of essential oil), ursolic acid, rosmarinic acid, linalool, caryophyllene, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, alkaloids, and phenolic are most commonly occurring compounds (Figure, 3). These compounds exhibit antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and cardioprotective activities (Table 2).

Table 1. Chemotypes and major essential oil components of O. tenuiflorum essential oil reported in different countries.

Compounds

Germany[37]

Australia[20]

USA[32]

Brazil[38]

Iran[39]

South India[40]

North India[41]

1,8-cineole

11.0

-

5.9

-

20.45

-

-

α-pinene

0.1

0.22

-

-

0.66

0.2

0.48

α-bergamotene

0.9

0.72

1.6

-

-

-

-

α-bisabolene

9.4

-

-

-

-

-

-

α-bisabolol

0.4

5.38

-

-

-

-

-

α-cadinene

-

-

7.3

-

-

-

-

α-humulene

2.0

0.19

0.5

1.5

1.27

0.8

-

α-terpineol

0.5

3.05

1.2

-

0.42

-

0.5

β-elemene

-

-

-

-

-

2.5

-

β-pinene

0.4

0.61

0.1

 

1.73

0.1

0.55

δ-terpineol

-

0.68

-

-

-

-

-

Camphor

-

24.15

-

-

-

-

-

Caryophyllene oxide

-

-

1.3

-

-

0.6

1.4

Eugenol

38.2

23.67

51.5

59.4

24.63

-

-

Estragole

-

9.6

-

 

11.40

-

-

(E)-β-Caryophyllene

-

-

-

29.4

-

5.5

-

Fenchone

-

0.1

-

-

-

-

-

Geraniol

-

-

0.3

-

-

-

0.15

Germacrene d

2.4

3.77

0.5

-

-

-

0.37

Limonene

0.2

1.36

0.1

-

-

-

4.39

Linalool

 

0.06

0.4

-

0.15

-

21.84

Methyl chavicol

14.4

-

-

-

-

-

44.63

Methyl eugenol

-

-

-

-

-

72.5

-

Myrcene

0.2

0.32

-

-

0.93

-

-

Ocimene oxide

-

1.17

-

-

-

-

-

Octen-3-ol

-

0.18

-

-

-

-

-

Sabinene

0.1

0.14

-

-

0.49

-

-

Trans-β-farnesene

-

-

2.2

-

-

-

-

Trans-β-guaiene

-

-

10.9

-

-

-

-

 

 

 

Figure 3. Molecular structure of some major compounds reported in O. tenuiflorum.

Table 2. Therapeutic effects of major chemical components reported in O. tenuiflorum.

Compound

Class

Therapeutic effects

References

Eugenol

 

Phenylpropanoid

Analgeisc/antinociceptive/anti-inflammatory/local anesthetic

[42,43]

Estragole

 

Phenylpropanoid

Genotoxic

[44]

Camphor

 

Bicyclic monoterpene ketone

Anti-microbial/anti-viral/

analgesic

 

[45,46,47]

Linalool

Acyclic monoterpenoid

Antigirardial/antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory

[48,49]

Ursolic acid

 

triterpenoid

Anti- arthritic/ Anti-inflammatory

[50]

β-caryophyllene

-

Antibiotic/ anti-inflammatory/ anticancer

[51,52]

Pharmacological and Therapeutic properties:

Regular consumption of Tulsi prevents disease, improve longevity, enhance skin health, and promote mental clarity, memory enhancer and emotional stability [53,54,55]. Modern scientific research supports these traditional claims and has demonstrated that Tulsi exhibits wide range of pharmacological activities, including: antimicrobial (antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, antiprotozoal) [56, 30], antioxidant and anti-inflammatory [57-61], antidiabetic and anti-hyperlipidemic, hepatoprotective and nephroprotective, neuroprotective and cardioprotective, anticancer and chemo-preventive [62], immunomodulatory [29, 30], anti-asthmatic [18,19,63], antitussive and antipyretic [64], adaptogenic and anti-stress effects [65, 29]. These properties help the human body cope with physical, chemical, infectious, and emotional stressors, restoring physiological and psychological balance. Tulsi stimulates digestive enzymes, reduces acidity, and protects the stomach lining. It helps to relieve respiratory disorders (asthma, cough, bronchitis) indigestion, bloating, and gastric discomfort [26]. It is commonly used as a first-aid remedy for respiratory, digestive, and skin disorders. Ayurvedic literature also recognizes its use in treating tumors. Scientific studies confirm its role as an immunomodulatory, cytoprotective, and anticancer agent [22,29]. Table, 3 elaborates the  therapeutic potential of various parts of O. tenuiflorum.

Antioxidant and Detoxification:

Many health benefits of Tulsi are attributed to its antioxidant-rich phytochemical composition particularly phenolic compounds [38,60,65]. Krishna Tulsi has been reported to possess higher antioxidant capacity compared to other varieties. Laboratory studies indicate that Tulsi enhances endogenous antioxidant defenses by increasing glutathione levels and activating antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase and catalase. Tulsi protects against chemically induced toxicity by reducing oxidative stress, prevents DNA damage, and cellular injury and acts as chemo preventive agent [66]. It enhances liver detoxification processes by activating cytochrome P450 enzymes, thereby facilitating the metabolism and elimination of harmful toxins [67,68].

In Chemically and Physically induced Stress:

Numerous experimental studies have documented Tulsi’s protective effects against environmental toxicants, including pesticides, pharmaceuticals, heavy metals, and radiation. Tulsi has been shown to prevent damage to vital organs such as the liver, kidneys, and brain by mitigating immune, and cellular damage induced by toxic exposures [29,30].

Anticancer Activity:

Tulsi exhibits strong anti-cancerous properties. It is rich in various phytochemicals including eugenol, urosolic acid, apigenin, cryophellene, carvacrol, cirsimerritin, estragole, linalool and rosamaric acids. These phytochemicals exhibit neuro-protective, anti-carcinogenic, radioprotective, anti-hypertensive and anti-leukodermal effects[22]. It has been reported that in prostate cancer, Tulsi exhibit anticancer effects. Treatment with the ethanolic extraction of Tulsi results in the decrease of Bcl-2 level and elevated the caspase 9 and caspase 3. In lung cancer cell lines, it is reported that extract of Tulsi shows cleaved poly ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP), activated caspase-9 and caspase-3 proteins at the same time, and induce release of cytochrome C into the cytoplasm. Additionally, in cancer cells, ethanolic extracts of O. tenuiflorum reduced the phosphorylation of Akt and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), raised the ratio of proapoptotic protein Bax to antiapoptotic protein Bcl-2 [69]. A549 cells angiogenesis is disrupted by OS ethanolic extract, which may be the outcome of cell migration and proliferation being disrupted due to downregulation of αvβ3, MMP-2, and MMP-9 [70]. Following O. tenuiflorum essential oil  treatment, anti-apoptotic genes (BCL-2 and BCL-xL) were dramatically down-regulated and pro-apoptotic genes (TP53, BAX, and BAK) were significantly up-regulated. Additionally, AGS (Adenocarcinoma of the Gastric Stomach) cells treated with O. tenuiflorum essential oil  showed markedly elevated gene expression for CASP8, CASP9, and CASP3 [71].   Another study reported cytotoxic effects of phytochemical constituent of Tulsi against the A375 malignant melanoma cell line by inducing the apoptosis pathways [72]. Studies have demonstrated that ethanolic extracts of O. tenuiflorum significantly reduced tumor cell size and increased the lifespan of mice bearing Sarcoma-180 solid tumors. Oral administration of leaf extract significantly reduced tumor size and increases  survival rates of experimental animals [73]. Furthermore, O. tenuiflorum has been reported to protect cellular DNA from oxidation. The anti-tumor and anti-cancer effects of Tulsi are primarily attributed to eugenol, beta-caryophyllene and β-elemene components of essential oil [51, 73, 74, 22].

Antidiabetic Activity:

O. tenuiflorum exhibits notable antidiabetic properties [60]. Hydroalcoholic extracts of O. tenuiflorum have shown significant hypoglycemic activity in streptozotocin and nicotinamide-induced diabetic rats. Ethanol extracts have also been found to reduce hyperglycemia in alloxan-induced diabetic rats [75].

Antifertility Activity:

Benzene and petroleum ether extracts of Tulsi leaves have demonstrated significant antifertility effects in female rats, showing approximately 80% and 60% activity, respectively. In Kerala, Tulsi leaves have been used by females and doctors for birth control measures [76]. Ursolic acid, a major constituent of Tulsi leaves, is believed to be responsible for antifertility activity [77].

Antibacterial Activity:

The antibacterial potential of aqueous, alcoholic, chloroform extracts, and essential oil of O. tenuiflorum leaves has been tested against pathogenic microorganisms such as Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhimurium, and Staphylococcus aureus. The extracts were found to be effective against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria [78]. Fresh leaf essential oil exhibited stronger antibacterial activity compared to dried leaf oil. However, in the case of antifungal activity, dried leaves were observed to be more effective [79, 80].

Health benefits of Tulsi in daily life:

Tulsi is widely valued for its diverse health benefits. The leaves act as a nerve tonic, enhancing memory and cognitive function [81]. Tulsi help clear mucus from the bronchial passages, strengthen the stomach, and promote sweating [82]. The seeds possess mucilaginous properties and has been used in foods [83].

Boosts Immunity:

Tulsi possesses powerful immunomodulatory properties that enhance the body’s defense mechanisms. Bioactive compounds such as eugenol, rosmarinic acid and ursolic acid stimulate immune cells, making the body more resistant to infections [29, 84].

Promotes Respiratory Health:

Tulsi has been used as a major remedy for cold and cough in every Indian household. It is effective in treating respiratory disorders such as asthma, bronchitis, and COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease). Its expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties help clear mucus and reduce congestion [57-61]. Tulsi steam inhalation provides relief in cold [85].

Supports Cardiovascular Health:

Tulsi helps lower the cholesterol levels, regulate blood pressure, and protect the heart from oxidative damage, thereby reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases [26].

Cultivation:

Tulsi grows in tropical and warm regions. It is widely grown in Asia and Africa. It is distributed and cultivated throughout the India. The phytochemical diversity and hence medicinal properties of plants depend upon the type of the soil, weather and variations in the rainfall. For cultivation, seedlings are transplanted in a pot after germination.  Further, for getting good vegetative growth and more branching,  pinching  of  flowering twigs is a common practice. Tulsi requires less water and good sunlight condition for healthy growth. During winters severe frost and low temperature can dry out the plant as a result of chilling stress. To overcome this, the pot should be transferred to a shaded area where there is some sunlight is available but no frost [8, 94].

Table 3. Therapeutic potential of different parts of O. tenuiflorum reported in literature.

No.

Therapeutic potential

Part used

References

1.

Immunomodulator

Leaf

[35]

2.

Antiviral

-

[56,30]

3.

Adaptogenic

-

[68]

4.

Antiartritic

Leaf

[50]

5.

Preservative

Leaves

[86]

6.

Antixoidant

Leaves

[65; 29; 54, 60]

7.

Anti-inflammatory

Leaves/root/whole plant/seeds

[57,60]

8.

Chemo-preventive

Seed/leaves

[62,66]

9.

Memory enhancer/ neuroprotective

Plant/leaves

[53,54,55]

10.

Antifungal

Aerial part/leaves

[41,79,87]

11.

Antibacterial

Aerial part

[79]

12.

Anti-cancer

Leaves

[88]

13.

Antimicrobial

Leaves

[89]

14.

Antipyretic

Leaves/root

[58,64]

15.

Anti-diabetic

Leaves/whole plant

[75,90,91]

16.

Anti-asthmatic/antitussive

Leaves

[18]

17.

Anthelmintic

Leaves

[92]

18.

Antiplasmodial

Leaf, stem, root, flower

[93]

Molecular mechanism of essential oil action:

Essential oils activate apoptosis (programmed cell death) in tumor cells by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS), inducing release of cyt. c from mitochondrial which activates caspase proteins. On molecular level eugenol shows a pro-apoptotic effect by decreasing the expression of the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 and by increasing pro-apoptotic proteins such as Bax. This increased the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, which activates mitochondrial apoptotic pathways, and leads to caspase-mediated cell death. Studies on cervical, breast, and oral cancer cells have demonstrated that eugenol suppresses Bcl-2 expression and promotes apoptosis, suggesting its potential role as an anticancer phytochemical [95,96]. Eugenol increases the expression of Bax, a pro-apoptotic protein involved in mitochondrial apoptosis. Enhanced Bax levels promote mitochondrial membrane permeabilization, cytochrome-c release, and activation of caspases, leading to programmed cell death [97,98,99]. Thus, eugenol induces apoptosis through the mitochondrial pathway by promoting Cyt-c release [22].

Eugenol inhibits the occurrence of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and hence reduces inflammation. Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzyme produces prostaglandins, lipid compounds that drive inflammation, pain, and fever [100]. As a potent antioxidant eugenol neutralizes free radicals and prevents the formation of ox-LDL. Further it inhibits oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) binding to LOX-1 (Lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1) receptors. In case of LOX-1 binding to ox-LDL, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production occurs which induces inflammatory response. Binding of LOX-1 also triggers endothelial cell dysfunction, apoptosis, and the formation of foam cells. Research indicates that eugenol reduces both PCSK9 and LOX-1 expression, especially in stress-induced or leukemia cells, by interfering with oxidized LDL pathways [101] (Figure, 4).

 

Figure 4. Molecular signaling induced by eugenol in generating apoptosis and reducing inflammation.

Genetic basis of purple pigmentation:

The two forms, Green (Rama Tulsi ) and purple (Shyama Tulsi) have been categorized on the basis of accumulation of high amount of anthocyanin pigment in purple form (Figure, 5). Anthocyanins are water-soluble natural phenolic compounds belongs to flavonoid class, which are synthesized in the cytoplasm and stored inside vacuoles of flowers, leaves, fruits, roots, and epidermal cells [102,103]. Anthocyanin gives vibrant purple color to flowers of many plants. UV-B (280-315 nm) radiation is a powerful factor for anthocyanin biosynthesis. Anthocyanins play key roles as natural sunscreens (acts as natural filter), safeguard plant cells from oxidative damage (by neutralizing reactive oxygen species), and photo-oxidation (absorbs excess energy) [104]. These pigments have therapeutic properties and act as free radicle scavenger [102, 103]. In purple form (Shyama or Krishna Tulsi) anthocyanin pigment present in leaves, stem, and inflorescences. The difference in the coloration of both forms depends upon the expression of early and late genes involved in anthocyanins synthesizing pathway [103]. In genus Ocimum, studies indicates that biosynthesis of anthocyanin pigments requires a complex interaction between both structural and regulatory genes. The occurrence of pigmentation does not have any relation with the essential oil characteristics [103,105]. Environmental conditions (light and temperature) also affect the coloration. Both forms have commercial applications and are sold in the market. According to some sources purple form is rich in genotoxic compound, methyl eugenol [17].

Figure 5. Two forms of O. tenuiflorum; A. Green form (Shri or Rama Tulsi) and B. Purple form (Krishna or Shyama Tulsi).

Anthocyanins are synthesized via flavonoid producing phenylpropanoid pathway. Chalcone synthase (CHS), chalcone isomerase (CI), dihydroflavonol 4-reductase (DFR) and anthocyanidin synthase (ANS) are key enzymes in this pathway [106]. The transcription factors OsHY5 (LONG HYPOCOTYL 5), TT8 (OsbHLH basic helix loop-helix), and MYB (Myeloblastosis) family proteins are involved in regulation of genes responsible for enzymes involved in anthocyanin synthesis [103,107]. The intensity of purple pigmentation depends on the differential expression level of early (OsCHS-chalcone synthase and OsCHI-chalcone isomerase) and late genes (OsDFR- dihydroflavonol 4-reductase and OsANS- anthocyanidin synthase) of anthocyanin producing pathway. In purple form both OsCHS and OsCHI are highly expressed in comparison to green form. Further, in purple form OsHY5 and OsbHLH are also highly expressed [103]. Finally, purple coloration does not constitute a fixed or stable trait in genus Ocimum but it has been found to be unstable and instances have been reported where purple reverted to parental green form [105,108].

CONCLUSION:

Tulsi is an invaluable gift to mankind. The relevancy and effectiveness of Tulsi as a potent remedy is established by evidences ranging from ancient texts to recent modern scientific findings. To harness its chemical properties, one can derive health benefits by consuming it in various convenient forms—such as decoctions, syrups, teas, or powder in daily life. It would be best to grow a Tulsi plant in a pot at home and use the fresh leaves.

Credit authorship contribution statement

S.D. Writing – original draft, Investigation, Data curation; A.T. –Writing, Conceptualization; K.S Writing – resources; H.S.– Writing, review & editing; M.S. -Review & editing.

Declaration of competing interest

The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this review.

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to thank Head of Department, School of Botany, Maa Shakumbhari University, Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India and Head of Department, Department of Botany, Chaudhary Charan Singh University, Meerut for their kind administrative support. 

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Photo
Archasvi Tyagi
Corresponding author

School of Botany, Maa Shakumbhari University, Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India- 247120

Photo
Shubhi Dhiman
Co-author

School of Botany, Maa Shakumbhari University, Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India- 247120

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Kuntal Sarma
Co-author

Department of Biotechnology, Amity Institutes of Biotechnology, Amity University of Haryana, Manesar, Gurugram, India 122413

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Harshdeep Sharma
Co-author

Department of Botany, Chaudhary Charan Singh University, Meerut, India - 250004

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Manjari Sharma
Co-author

Department of Botany, Chaudhary Charan Singh University, Meerut, India - 250004

Shubhi Dhiman, Archasvi Tyagi*, Kuntal Sarma, Harshdeep Sharma, Manjari Sharma, Tulsi (Ocimum Tenuiflorum L.): A Comprehensive Review On Medicinal Potential, Cultural Importance, Essential Oil Chemo-Diversity And Genetic Basis Of Purple Coloration. Int. J. of Pharm. Sci., 2026, Vol 4, Issue 8, 368-387,.https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.21779735

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