Ocimum basilicum: Taxonomy, Cultivation and Uses

Ocimum bacilicum L. is an aromatic herb commonly known as sweet basil or sweet tulsi. It is rich in secondary metabolites like phenols, alkaloids, terpenoids, aldehydes, flavonoids, steroids, glycosides, essential oils, saponins, and tannins. The presence of these compounds makes sweet basil one of the most commonly used plant in aromatherapy, perfume, cosmetics, and in foods. The utilization potential of the sweet basil in different industrial section increases its importance. The first chapter underlines secondary metabolites of sweet basil and their importance in different aspects. The second chapter considers the recent concepts of application organic manures in integration with inorganic fertilizers in different reviews and research studies that fulfills the nutritional needs in sweet basil and gives the best quality of it. The third chapter summarizes the potential uses, cultivation, and available germplasm of O. basilicum in Turkey. The fourth chapter reviews literature on antiviral activity of O. basilicum to find molecules capable of inhibiting the SARS-CoV-2 main protease. This could permit the use of this plant in the fight against COVID-19 and associated diseases. The last chapter is an examination of antisickling activity of Ocimum Basilicum and some of its compounds.