Pharmacological Profiling and Propagation Strategies in Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum): A Review

Abstract

Ocimum basilicum L. (sweet basil), a member of the Lamiaceae family, is a prominent aromatic and medicinal plant extensively utilized in traditional systems of medicine, culinary practices, and the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the ethnobotany, phytochemistry, pharmacological activities, and propagation strategies of O. basilicum. The plant exhibits a wide array of bioactivities, including antidiabetic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, hypolipidemic, immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, anxiolytic, and anticancer effects. These therapeutic properties are attributed to its diverse phytochemical profile, comprising essential oils, polyphenols, and flavonoids. Experimental studies have demonstrated its efficacy in modulating oxidative stress, inflammatory pathways, enzymatic activity, and cellular signaling mechanisms. Furthermore, O. basilicum shows potential in environmental applications such as phytoremediation, and its extracts are being investigated for food preservation and cosmeceutical use. The review also highlights the significance of vegetative and micropropagation methods in ensuring clonal fidelity and consistent phytochemical yield and essential oil for commercial exploitation. Collectively, the findings reinforce the pharmacological versatility and industrial relevance of O. basilicum, supporting its further exploration as a source of bioactive compounds for therapeutic and biotechnological applications.