<p>Plants have been used by human beings for food, flavor, medicine and a variety of other purposes since the dawn of time. In this regard, concrete evidence is found in written records of many civilizations (Egyptian, Roman, Chinese, Indo-Aryan). Ayurvedic writings, for example, describe numerous usage details including the ones for curing diseases and ailments of different kinds. Those of <i>A. indica</i> have proved their potential in pharmaceutical industries as anticancer, antioxidant and anti-HIV agents. In alternative systems of medicine, people use it as carminative, stomachic, for detoxification, relief from pain and other inflammatory diseases. A storehouse of immense medicinal uses and resembling the sacred <i>O. sanctum</i> L. (Tulsi) in so far as its pharmaceutical properties are concerned, <i>A. indica</i> can potentially serve as its substitute in prescribed dosages. Despite being sacred in India, Tulsi faces overexploitation and is prohibited for use on certain religious days and by non-vegetarians. Under such circumstances, <i>A. indica</i> can suitably substitute Tulsi. This will not only preserve its sanctity but ensure its availability in remote and rural areas where herbal medicines are of prime importance and probably the only source. Conversely, benefits of Tulsi through <i>A. indica</i> can also be availed on all days and by non-vegetarians also. The scientific understanding underlying the traditional uses, phytochemistry and pharmacology of <i>A. indica</i> is highlighted in this review. Comparison along these lines has also been included.</p>