THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL OF OCIMUM TENUIFLORUM PHYTOCHEMICALS IN ORAL CANCER-A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW

Background: Oral cancer remains a significant global health challenge, characterized by high mortality rates and limited effective treatment options. There is a growing interest in natural bioactive compounds as potential therapeutic agents to overcome the limitations of conventional therapies. Purpose: This review aims to explore the therapeutic potential of bioactive compounds derived from Ocimum tenuiflorum L. (Holy basil or Tulsi) in the management of oral cancer. Methods: A comprehensive literature survey was conducted PubMed, Scopus, and Web od Science database to analyze the mechanisms through which key phytochemicals from O. tenuiflorum, such as eugenol, rosmarinic acid, apigenin, and linalool, exert anticancer effects. Keywords included: “Ocimum tenuiflorum,” “Tulsi,” “Bioactive Compounds,” “Nanotechnology,” “Oral Cancer,” “Personalized Medicine.” We focused on modulating oxidative stress, inducing apoptosis, and inhibiting metastasis by interfering with critical signaling pathways. Results: The selected phytochemicals demonstrated potent anticancer properties against oral cancer cells in preclinical studies. They effectively modulated oxidative stress, promoted apoptosis, and inhibited metastatic progression. However, significant gaps persist regarding their clinical applicability and long-term safety profiles. Conclusions: Ocimum tenuiflorum exhibits transformative potential in oral cancer therapy. Future research should prioritize clinical translation of these preclinical findings and focus on developing novel therapeutic agents tailored to individual patient needs.