A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF MICROSCOPICAL CHARACTERS OF POWDER OF STEM OF OCIMUM SANCTUM

Abstract

In recent times, researchers have increasingly focused on exploring alternative sources of anti-inflammatory agents, particularly of plant origin. Ocimum sanctum (tulsi) has been a longstanding source of medicinal agents, with its leaves, bark, stems, and flower spikes harboring phytoconstituents responsible for anti-inflammatory activity. Phytochemical screening of the plant's stems has identified the presence of saponins, alkaloids, flavonoids, steroids, phenols, tannins, and glycosides. Ocimum sanctum, also known as tulsi or holy basil, belongs to the Lamiaceae family and is renowned for its medicinal uses. The study aimed to analyze the phytochemical components of tulsi stems. Using the soxhlet apparatus, dried tulsi stem powder was separately subjected to aqueous, methanol, and ethanol extraction, resulting in yields of 6.0% w/w, 8.0% w/w, and 9.0% w/w, respectively. The analysis revealed the presence of secondary metabolites such as carbohydrates, tannins, flavonoids, saponins, glycosides, terpenoids, fatty acids, and phenols in the tulsi stem extract. These phytochemicals are known for their various therapeutic properties, including antiseptic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anti-stress, immune-modulatory, hypoglycemic, hypotensive, and antioxidant effects. Utilizing tulsi as a herbal medicine is deemed more beneficial than chemically synthesized alternatives. India's rich medicinal plant heritage has long been integrated into traditional medicine systems, with tulsi holding a significant place for treating various ailments. Tulsi, or Ocimum sanctum Linn., has been utilized in Ayurveda for millennia, known for its diverse healing properties. Recognized as the "incomparable" herb of India, tulsi plays a pivotal role in traditional medicine. However, the lack of standardization in morphological and anatomical characters poses challenges, leading to the occasional misidentification and adulteration of drugs. This research focuses on the standardization of Ocimum sanctum, considering its medicinal importance, aiming to document its morphology, distribution, phytochemistry, and medicinal properties. The findings are expected to contribute to further scientific investigations for the development of effective therapeutic compounds.