This document discusses the properties and uses of tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), a common herb in Ayurvedic medicine. It contains several active ingredients like eugenol, thymol, beta-caryophyllene, and rosmarinic acid that give tulsi antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and other therapeutic effects. Tulsi can be used to relieve cough, fever, anxiety, diabetes and has liver protective properties. While generally safe, in some cases tulsi can cause infertility, skin issues, or interfere with drug metabolism. The document concludes that tulsi is a widely grown herb with many medicinal uses.
2. Introduction
Small herb-use as a medicine & ritualistic worship
leaves, seeds, roots, flowers and the stem-
recommended for their healing properties in
Ayurvedic medicine system
chemical composition-
highly complex
containing many
nutrients and other
biological active
Compounds
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1. Scientific Name- Ocimum
sanctum
2. Kingdom: Plantae
3. Family: Lamiaceae
4. Genus: Ocimum
5. Species: sanctum
Classification
3. Active Ingredient
Active Ingridient Property/Use Action Machanism
Eugenol antiseptic and anaesthetic
used in perfumes,
flavorings, and essential
oils, antidiabetic etc.
Beta cell of pancrease
&inhibition of voltage-
gated sodium channel
Thymol Strong antimicrobial
attributes
GABA receptor- body
temperature
beta caryophyllene Relief of anxiety and
depression
Cannabinoid receptor like
marijuana
Rosmarinic acid Antioxidant Inhibit lipid Peroxidation
Carvacrol Protective effects for the
liver, antioxidant, activity
against harmful organisms
Inhibition of
prostaglandin synthesis
5. Mode of Administration
Basil leaves may be consumed by adding to
stir fry dishes and soups
To deal with cough, tulsi leaves may be added to
boiling water to prepare an herbal tea.This tea
may also be applied externally to soothe
irritated or itchy skin
Crushed tulsi leaves can be mixed
with ginger juice and a little honey used for
relief from cough and cold
7. Side Effects
Eugenol overdose: shallow breathing, blood
in the urine, mouth and throat burns, nausea,
racing heartbeat, seizures, dizziness and
coma.
It might cause
infertility in males
Tulsi with milk is
not ideal: can cause
skin disorder
Stimulate uterine
contractions in pregnant
women- lead to
complications during
childbirth or menstruation
Tulsi might interfere
with the way how our
body processes certain
drugs
8. Conclusion
Tulsi is a common herb grown in many households
with a wide range of therapeutic properties
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