In vitro propagation, phytochemistry and pharmacology of Basilicum polystachyon (L.) Moench (Lamiaceae): A short review
Sumanta Das, Kaniz Wahida Sultana, Indrani Chandra
Abstract
Basilicum polystachyon (L.) Moench, commonly known as musk basil and is a perennial herbaceous plant in the Lamiaceae family. This plant is used in Asia and Africa as an ethnomedicinal herb to treat various diseases and health ailments. The plant has been known due to its pharmacological properties and contains a wide variety of secondary metabolites and essential oils, which play a significant role in different biological activities. Caffeic acid, p-coumaric acid and rosmarinic acid are the main biochemical components of the plant. These phenolic acids are considered to be an important human dietary component. The high demand for phenolic acids is mainly acquired using chemically synthesized compounds. The variation in the accumulation of plant secondary metabolites depends on a variety of geographical challenges. In vitro propagation is an alternative technique for producing and improving valuable secondary metabolites beyond relying on wild plants. The present review elucidated the strategies for in vitro propagation, optimization of production of phenolic acids and therapeutic application of Lamiaceae species. This short review summarizes critical information about the different strategies of in vitro propagation and their effect on the production of phenolic acids, which would help in further studying endangered medicinal plants of pharmacological applications.