Author(s): Khagesh Singh and Deepa Srivastava

Abstract: The sacred basil, commonly known as Tulsi, has gained worldwide acknowledgment for its spiritual and religious significance. According to Ayurveda, it is regarded as the "elixir of life" due to its potent aroma and astringent taste, both of which enhance longevity. Ocimum is well known for metabolites phenols, terpenoids, flavonoids, and alkaloids. Fungal endophytes are often capable of producing secondary metabolites such as antibiotics, antifungal, antiviral, anticancer, and antimalarial compounds, etc. Recent studies have highlighted the diverse endophytic fungi in the “Ocimum” species, including “O. sanctum”, “O. basilicum”, and “O. gratissimum”, offering promising applications across medicine, agriculture, and biostimulation. These fungi exhibit significant antimicrobial, antifungal, biocontrol, and stress-mitigating activities, particularly under salinity conditions with key genera including Aspergillus, Fusarium, Alternaria, Curvularia, and Trichoderma. Utilizing these fungal endophytes could yield novel bioactive agents, sustainable biostimulants, and eco-friendly crop protection strategies. This study provides insights about the existence of endophytes in Ocimum species, the products they produce, and how certain of these organisms’ exhibit potential for human applications.

DOI: 10.22271/27893065.2025.v5.i2b.152

Pages: 116-121 | Views: 96 | Downloads: 44

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