An industrial cultivation of Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) for medicinal use and rural empowerment

Abstract

The main cause of global morbidity and mortality is lifestyle related chronic diseases, many of which can be cured by the use Ayurvedic medicines with its focus on healthy lifestyle practices and regular consumption of relaxing herbs. Herbs used within Ayurveda, tulsi (Ocimum sanctum Linn) is most excellent, has been proved for its beneficial effects. There is lot of literature showing that tulsi can address physical, chemical, metabolic and psychological stress through a unique combination of pharmacological actions. It has been found that tulsi can protect organs and tissues against chemical stress from industrial pollutants and heavy metals, and physical stress from prolonged physical exertion, ischemia, physical restraint and exposure to cold and excessive noise. Tulsi have broad-spectrum antimicrobial activities which includes activity against a range of human and animal pathogens. It has been also recommended for use as a hand sanitizer, mouthwash, water purifier, wound healing, preservation of food. Farming of tulsi has both religious and practical importance that connects the cultivator to the innovative powers of nature. Organic farming of tulsi can offers solutions for food security, rural poverty and hunger alleviation, prevention of environmental degradation and climate change. The use of tulsi in daily rituals is a witness to Ayurvedic intelligence and provides an example of ancient knowledge offering solutions to modern problems. Keeping above tulsi is requires to commercialize and increase area under organic cultivation, increase income and livelihood cultivators, prevention of soil & environment degradation. Use of tulsi in various ayurvedic medicines which makes Indian cultivators empowered by selling herbs and disease free society by using tulsi as medicines.