A chronic inflammatory disease periodontitis, causes destruction of the connective tissues supporting the tooth, by various etiological agents, primarily the periodontal pathogens that dwells in the subgingival area. The use of antibiotics as local drug delivery agent, adjunct to scaling and root planning has been proven to be efficient in the management of periodontitis. A medicinal plant like tulsi has also been proven to have pharmacological properties which inhibits and controls the growth of periodontal pathogens. These findings are being utilized and more scientific research in its use as a local drug delivery agent is gaining momentum. Here we review the pharmacological properties and the role of Ocimum sanctum against periodontal pathogens.

Keywords : Ocimum sanctum, local drug delivery agent, periodontal pathogens.