Research in Plant Metabolites

Research in Plant Metabolites

Phytochemical Analysis of Ocimum sanctum L. in a Unique Hot-Humid Ecosystem: Hormozgan as a Potential Cultivation Zone

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
1 Department of Horticultural Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture & Natural Resources, University of Hormozgan, Bandar Abbas, Iran
2 Department of Horticultural Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture & Natural Resources, University of Hormozgan, Bandarabbas, Iran.
3 Dryland Agricultural Research Institute (DARI), Agriculture Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO),
Abstract
Ocimum sanctum L., commonly known as holy basil and which is a perennial plant belonging to Lamiaceae family, is valued for its medicinal properties and bioactive compounds, particularly its rich essential oils, widely used in pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. This study, for the first time, investigates the quantity and quality of the essential oil of this plant in the hot and humid climate of Hormozgan Province, Iran. Plant samples were collected at the full flowering stage (May 2022) from experimental fields in Bandar Abbas, and their essential oils were extracted using hydrodistillation. The yield and chemical composition of the essential oil were analyzed using gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The results revealed an average essential oil yield of 1.9 ± 0.15% (w/w, based on dry weight), higher than that reported in drier regions of Iran. In total, 28 chemical compounds were identified, constituting 88.7% of the essential oil. Oxygenated monoterpenes (78.9%), particularly linalool (44.6%) and methyl chavicol (25.2%), were predominant. Sesquiterpenes (4.9%), such as (E)-caryophyllene and trans-α-bergamotene, were also identified. These compounds are notable for their antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, enhancing the oil’s medicinal and industrial value. The findings indicate the adaptability of holy basil to Hormozgan’s climate and its potential for commercial cultivation. This study provides baseline data for adaptability and sustainable utilization of this species, highlighting the need for further research on optimized cultivation and management of environmental stresses. These results can contribute to sustainable agriculture and diversification of medicinal products in Iran’s tropical regions.
Keywords

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