TULSI (Ocimum tenuiflorum)

1. INTRODUCTION

Tulsi is a revered aromatic herb. It is often referred as “Queen of

Herbs”. The Tulsi plant belongs to the Lamiaceae family which is
known as Mint family. It is prized for its medicinal and spiritual
properties and widely used in Ayurvedic medicine and Hindu rituals.

1.1 English Name

In English,it is known as Holy Basil or Sacred Basil. This feminine

appellation derives from Tulasi which means Holy Basil. Fresh fragrant
and beloved for its hush green color, basil is widely revered in Hinduism
as a sacred plant.
Figure 1: Tulsi
1.2 Bangla Name
In Bangla the Tulsi is called as ‘Tulsi (তুলসি)’. It is also commonly known as ‘Basil Pata
(বসিলপাতা)’ in some regions, but tulsi is the most recognized and traditional name.
1.3 Scientific Name

The scientific name of tulsi is Ocimum tenuiflorum,also known as Ocimum sanctum.

1.4 Availability

Tulsi is cultivated in Bangladesh in various area including hilly regions and

homestead gardens for both commercially and personal use. Warm
temperature, well drained loamy soil and proper sunlight is required for tulsi
plant growth. Farmers in areas like Tangail’s Madhupur and Ghatail upazila
are cultivating tulsi commercially. In India, the plant is grown throughout the
country from Andaman and Nicobar islands to the Himalayas.

It is also abundantly found in Malaysia, Australia, West Africa and some of

the Arab countries.
Figure 2: Tulsi leaves and oil
2. Medicinal Part /Active Part

In traditional Ayurvedicmedicine,all parts of Tulsi plant are

considered beneficial and used for various medicinal purposes,
including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial
effects.

Leaves:Used to treat cough, cold, flue, bronchitis

and other respiratory issues. It is also helpful for sore Figure 3: Tulsi dry root
throat, skin disorder, itching and ringworm.
Stem: Used to protect body from free radicals.
Roots:Used in traditional medicine for various
ailments, including insect bites and Leucoderma.
Seeds:Used to treat malaria and other ailments.
Flowers: Used to treat bronchitis.
Whole plant: used to purify air and insect repellent. Figure 4: Tulsi leaves

2.1 Medicinal Active Principle

The medicinal active principles of tulsi(ocimumtenuiflorum) includes-

i. Eugenol: It is a phenolic compound with anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antimicrobial

properties. It is found in leaves, stem, root, flowers and seeds.
ii. Ursolic acid: It exhibits anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective effects. It is
present in tulsi leaves, stem and flowers.

Figure 5: Medicinal active principle of Tulsi 2

 iii. Rosmarinic acid: It is a powerful antioxidant with anti-allergic and neuroprotective
benefits.It is found in leaves, stem, root, flowers and seeds.
iv. Luteolin and Apigenin: It seems flavonoids with anti-inflammatory and immune-
modulating effects.It is present in tulsi leaves, root and flowers.
v. Caryophyllene: It is a terpene known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties..
It is present in tulsi leaves, root and stem.
vi. Oleanolic acid: It contributes to anti-microbial and hepatoprotective actions.. It is found
in leaves, stem, root, flowers and seeds
vii. Linalool: It contributes to tulsi’s calming and antimicrobial effects. It is found in stem.
viii. Cineole (Eucalyptol): It helps in respiratory conditions and provides antimicrobial
benefits. It is present in tulsi flowers.
ix. Camphor: It acts as an expectorant and has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.It
is present in tulsi flowers.

3. Therapeutic Application

Tulsiand its active compounds are believed to have therapeutic effects in several conditions. Some
of the diseases or conditions where tulsi is used for treatment are given below-

 Respiratory Diseases:–Tulsi has antibacterial, antiviral,

and expectorant properties and uses to treat common cold,
cough, and flu. It acts as a natural bronchodilator and helps
clear mucus. It reduces inflammation and congestion.
 Fever and Infections:Its antimicrobial properties help
fight fevers caused by infections like dengue, malaria, and
typhoid. Tulsi’s antifungal compounds can help with skin
and oral infections.
 Digestive disorders:Tulsi helps balance stomach acid and
protects against ulcers.It improves digestion and relieves
gas and uses to treat indigestion and bloating.
 Diabetes Management:Tulsi lowers blood sugar levels and Figure 6: Benefits of Tulsi

improves insulin sensitivity.

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  Heart Health;Tulsi reduces cholesterol and blood pressure, supporting cardiovascular
health.
 Stress and Anxiety: Tulsi acts as an adaptogen, helping the body manage stress and
anxiety.
 Skin and Oral Health: Tulsi helps with acne, wounds, and skin infections due to its
antibacterial properties.It prevents bad breath and gum infections.
 Liver and Kidney Protection:Tulsi detoxifies the liver and improves kidney function.

3.1 Veterinary Uses

Tulsi has significant benefits for animal health and is often incorporated into herbal treatments for
livestock and pets which includes:

1. Antimicrobial Properties: Tulsi has antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral effects,

making it useful in treating infections in animals.It is effective against common pathogens
like E. coli, Salmonella, and Staphylococcus aureus, reducing the risk of diseases in
livestock and pets.
2. Respiratory Health: Tulsi is used to treat respiratory
infections and conditions like pneumonia, cough, and
bronchitis in animals.It acts as a natural expectorant and
helps in clearing mucus.
3. Immune Booster:It enhances the immune system of
animals, making them more resistant to infections and
diseases. It is used in poultry and dairy farms to improve
overall animal health and productivity.
4. Anti-Inflammatory & Pain Relief: Tulsi possesses anti-
Figure 7: Tulsi as veterinary medicine
inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for animals
suffering from arthritis, wounds, or injuries.It helps in reducing swelling and pain naturally.
5. Digestive Health: It helps in treating indigestion, bloating, and diarrhea in animals. It
stimulates appetite and improves gut health, especially in ruminants like cows and goats.

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 6. Milk Production in Dairy Cattle: Regular supplementation with
Tulsi is believed to enhance milk yield and quality in lactating
cows and buffaloes. It improves metabolic functions and prevents
mastitis.
7. Insect Repellent & Wound Healing: Tulsi is a natural insect
repellent, protecting animals from ticks, fleas, and mosquitoes. It
is used as an herbal antiseptic for treating cuts, wounds, and skin
infections. Figure 8: Tulsi Tablets

4. Name of Available Medicine

4.1 Some of the highly available medicines and products of Tulsi in Bangladesh are
mentioned here:

 Alkof Syrup: Produced by Ibn Sina Pharmaceuticals Ltd., this herbal cough syrup contains
Tulsi among other herbal components. It's indicated for dry and chronic coughs,
hoarseness, allergic coughs, and sore throats.
 Azmatone Syrup: Manufactured by Jayson Natural Products Ltd., Azmatone is another
herbal cough syrup featuring Tulsi. It's used for similar indications as Alkof.
 Saduri Syrup: Offered byHamdard Laboratories (WAQF) BD, Saduri includes Tulsi and
is utilized for treating various types of coughs and throat irritations.


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Figure 9: Tulsi syrups
  Natural Tulsi Powder: This product provides pure Tulsi leaf powder, marketed for its
health benefits, including stress reduction and immune support.
 Rongon Holy Basil Powder: An herbal powder made from Tulsi leaves, used for skin and
hair care due to its purifying properties.
 Hamdard Safi Capsule: It contains tulsi with other ingredients like sana, revandchini,
neem and chirata.
 Saulin Tablet: It contains tulsi along with licorice, vasaka and peppermint.

4.2 Some of the medicines and products of Tulsi in abroad are given below:

 Organic India - Tulsi Tea: It isa herbal tea, found in India which
is used for stress relief, immune support, and promoting overall
well-being.
 Patanjali - Tulsi Drops: It is essential oil drops, found in India
which is usedfor immunity boosting, respiratory health, and
general wellness.
 Basil's - Tulsi Capsules: It is a herbal supplement capsules,
found in USA, which is used forimmune support, reducing stress,
Figure 10: Tulsi drops
anti-inflammatory properties.
 Natural Tulsi Oil: : It is a Essential oil, found in USA, which is
used foraromatherapy, immune system support, respiratory health.
 Swisse - Tulsi Extract Capsules: It is a capsules containing Tulsi
extract,found in Australia which is used for stress management,
supporting immune function, energy booster.
 Himalaya Herbal Healthcare-Himalaya Tulsi: It is a
capsules/tablets or powder, found in India, which is used for stress
relief, immune support, and antioxidant benefits. Figure 11: Essential oils of Tulsi

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5. Adverse Effects

i. Nausea and Diarrhea: Some individuals may

experience nausea or diarrhea after consuming tulsi,
especially in larger quantities.
ii. Stomach Cramps: Overconsumption of tulsi water
can lead to stomach cramps.
iii. Hypoglycemia: Tulsi can lower blood sugar levels,
which can be problematic for individuals with
diabetes, especially if combined with diabetes
medications.
iv. Liver Damage: While tulsi contains compounds that Figure 12: Symbolic image of
Stomach cramps
can protect the liver, excessive intake of eugenol, a
compound found in tulsi, can potentially damage the liver.

5.1 Contraindication:

 Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of tulsi during pregnancy or breastfeeding is

not well-established, and it's generally advised to avoid it during these periods.
 Fertility: Some studies in animals suggest tulsi may have negative effects on fertility.
 Surgery: Tulsi might increase the risk of bleeding during and after surgery, so it's best to
avoid it for a couple of weeks before and after surgery.
 Allergies: Individuals with allergies or sensitivities to tulsi or members of the mint family
(Lamiaceae) should exercise caution.
 Medication Interactions: Tulsi may interact with certain medications, including those for
diabetes, blood thinners, and thyroid issues.

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6. Conclusion:

Tulsi, or Holy Basil, is a powerful medicinal herb with numerous health benefits. Revered in
Ayurveda for its healing properties, it is known to boost immunity, reduce stress, improve
respiratory health, and support overall well-being. Its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and
antioxidant properties make it a valuable natural remedy for various ailments.

Beyond its medicinal uses, Tulsi holds cultural and religious significance, particularly in Indian
sub-continent, where it is often grown in households and temples. With ongoing scientific research
supporting its traditional uses, Tulsi continues to be a vital herb in natural medicine. Incorporating
Tulsi into daily life—whether as a tea, supplement, or fresh leaves—can promote better health and
holistic wellness.

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7. References:

Hasan, M. R., Alotaibi, B. S., Althafar, Z. M., Mujamammi, A. H., & Jameela, J. (2023). An
update on the therapeutic anticancer potential of Ocimum sanctum L.:“elixir of life”.
Molecules, 28(3), 1193.

Kaur, S., Sabharwal, S., Anand, N., Singh, S., Baghel, D. S., & Mittal, A. (2020). An overview
of Tulsi (Holy basil). European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine, 7(7), 2833-
2839.

Kumar, K. P., Bhowmik, D., Tripathi, K. K., & Chandira, M. (2010). Traditional indian herbal
plants tulsi and its medicinal importance. Research Journal of Pharmacognosy and
Phytochemistry, 2(2), 93-101.

Kumar, V., Andola, H. C., Lohani, H., & Chauhan, N. (2011). Pharmacological review on
Ocimum sanctum Linnaeus: a queen of herbs. J of Pharm Res, 4, 366-368.

Singh, V., Amdekar, S., & Verma, O. (2010). Ocimum sanctum (tulsi): Bio-pharmacological
activities. Webmed Central Pharmacol, 1(10), 1-7.