Precursor Mediated Enhanced Eugenol Production in Ocimum sanctum L. Through Tissue Culture Methodologies and Quantitative Estimation Through HPLC

Ocimum genus belonging to family Labiatae is well known for their therapeutic potential. Ocimum sanctum L. is rich in essential oils and secondary metabolites which are potential source of drugs. Various plant parts (leaves, stem, flower, root, seeds and even whole plant) of Ocimum sanctum Linn (also known as Tulsi in Hindi) have been recommended for the treatment of various ailments in different systems of medicines. Major constituents of Ocimum sanctum include eugenol, qurcetine and caryophyllene are known to possess several pharmacological properties. In the present study, the tissue culture methodologies and strategies have been developed and modified to enhance the secondary metabolite production from holy basil for the first time by the addition of a precursor (phenylalanine) to the media to enhance the production of eugenol and subjected to quantitative estimation through HPLC.