Phytochemical Composition and Pharmacological Potential of Ocimum sanctum L. (Holy Basil): A Comprehensive Review
Vishal Pundir
Department of Botany, T.D.P.G.College, Jaunpur - 222002 (India)
ABSTRACT
The present study investigates the phytochemical composition and in vitro antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of Ocimum sanctum L. leaf extracts. Fresh leaves were collected, shade-dried, and extracted using methanol. Qualitative phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolics, tannins, saponins, and terpenoids. Antioxidant activity was assessed using the DPPH radical scavenging assay, while antimicrobial activity was evaluated against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus using the agar well diffusion method. The methanolic extract exhibited significant antioxidant activity with a dose-dependent increase in radical scavenging potential. Moderate to strong antibacterial activity was observed against both test organisms. The findings indicate that O. sanctum leaves possess bioactive compounds with promising medicinal applications.