Oral cancer is sixth most common form of cancer worldwide. Its incidence is particularly high in India and other Asian countries. Potentially malignant oral disorders and their treatment are crucial for prevention and early detection of oral cancers. Oral submucus fibrosis (OSMF) is chronic insidious oral potentially malignant disorder characterized by increased collagen degradation, causing burning sensation and difficulty in mouth opening. Phytotherapy in treatment of osmf (the use of herbal agents in medicine and dentistry) one among these herbal agent/phytochemical is Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum Linn) the queen of herbs. Tulsi has a significant therapeutic value and several pharmacological studies have established a scientific basis for its therapeutic uses. This paper reviews the pharmacological actions of this herb in treatment of oral submucus fibrosis, as application of it is beneficial, inexpensive for people in lower socio-economic group.
Keywords: Tulsi, Oral submucus fibrosis, antioxidant, phytochemical, Potentially malignant oral disorders