Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum): An Unexploited Resource of Nepal

Holy basil, known as Tulasi in Nepali is a medicinal herb with significant potential in Nepal. Despite its significance in culture and tradition, its scientific and commercial potential is yet underexplored. This review article explores holy basil’s pharmacological characteristics emphasizing its adaptogenic, anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities. The medicinal uses of basil are attributed to its bioactive compounds including ursolic acid, rosmarinic acid and eugenol. This review article highlights the necessity of systematic cultivation, sustainable harvesting and advanced extraction technique in order to optimize the yield and quality of these bioactive substances. It also explores holy basil’s potential in the cosmetic, pharmaceutical and nutraceutical sectors and advocates for further research and development to utilize its full potential. Basil’s commercial and industrial potential in Nepal is also glorified in this review article along with challenges in commercialization also providing future recommendations.