<i>In Vitro</i> Propagation and Antibacterial Activity of <i>Ocimum basilicum</i> Linn.

Abstract

The study introduced a simple, reliable procedure for the in vitro culture and standardization of indigenous plant Ocimum basilicum. A potential antibacterial activity was observed in the extracts (chloroform, methanol and petroleum ether) of Ocimum basilicum against selected bacterial strains (MTCC type strains) and their MIC (Minimal Inhibitory Concentration) values were 62.5 and 125 µg mL-1. Existence of tannin, carbohydtares, phenolic compounds, proteins and aminoacids, anthraquinone glycosides, alkaloids were confirmed by phytochemical analysis. In vitro propagation from nodal explants and shoot tip of O. basilicum showed a higher level frequency of micro shoots on MS medium containing plant growth regulators at various combinations and concentrations. The nodal explants produced maximum shooting response (98 %); maximum shoot length (7.9 cm) and maximum multiple shoot formation (n=4.5) in BAP containing medium after 40 days. A 50% concentration of MS medium with combination of IBA and BAP showed maximum rooting response (78 %), maximum number of roots (n=12) and maximum length of root (8.67 cm) after 25 days. The regenerates were then hardened off and young plants were transferred to field. Nodal explants in MS medium with 2, 4-D showed a fast growth and pale brown colored calli.