Anxiolytic activity of ocimum sanctum leaf extract
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Anxiolytic activity of ocimum sanctum leaf extract
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
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Original source:
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R.R. Chattopadhyay
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Anxiolytic activity of ocimum sanctum leaf extract
Year: 1994
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The article investigates the anxiolytic activity of Ocimum sanctum, commonly known as Tulsi, through a series of behavioral tests conducted on mice. This plant is well-regarded in Indian culture for its medicinal properties, traditionally believed to provide health benefits. The aim of the study was to systematically explore the potential anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects of Ocimum sanctum leaf extract, assessing its efficacy compared to diazepam, a standard antianxiety medication. The study employed two primary test paradigms: the elevated plus maze and the open field test.
Anxiolytic Activity of Ocimum Sanctum
The results indicated that the leaf extract of O. sanctum (administered at 200 mg/kg) exhibited significant anxiolytic activity as evidenced by the outcomes in both the open field and elevated plus maze behavioral tests. In the open field test, mice treated with the extract displayed increased locomotion (indicated by the number of squares crossed), reduced immobility, increased rearing behavior, and a decrease in the number of fecal pellets, suggesting reduced anxiety. Similarly, in the elevated plus maze test, mice treated with O. sanctum showed higher numbers of entries into the open arms and spent more time there, compared to the control group, while spending less time in the enclosed arms. These findings suggest that O. sanctum may have considerable anxiolytic effects comparable to those of diazepam.
Conclusion
The preliminary findings of this study suggest that Ocimum sanctum leaf extract possesses significant anxiolytic properties that warrant further exploration. As the study contrasts the outcomes with a standard anxiolytic drug, it helps in establishing a foundation for future research into the therapeutic potential of this plant for anxiety disorders. While the mechanism of the anxiolytic activity remains unclear, these results encourage further evaluation of O. sanctum for its use as a natural therapeutic agent. The acknowledgment section highlights the support received during the research, underscoring the collaborative nature of scientific inquiry.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the main focus of the study on Ocimum sanctum?
The study investigates the anxiolytic activity of Ocimum sanctum leaf extract in mice, comparing its effects to diazepam, a standard anxiolytic drug.
What methods were used to assess the anxiolytic activity?
The anxiolytic activity was assessed using open-field and elevated plus-maze tests. These tests measure behavior such as movement, rearing, and time spent in open versus closed spaces.
How did the Ocimum sanctum leaf extract perform in the tests?
Ocimum sanctum leaf extract significantly increased the number of squares crossed and rearing behavior, while reducing immobility in the open field test and increasing entries into open arms in the plus-maze test.
What were the results compared to the control and diazepam?
The results indicated that Ocimum sanctum leaf extract had a similar anxiolytic effect as diazepam, with statistically significant differences in the behavioral parameters measured in both the open field and plus-maze tests.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Anxiolytic activity of ocimum sanctum leaf extract”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Activity:
The term 'Activity' refers to the capabilities or effects exhibited by a substance, in this case, the anxiolytic activity of Ocimum sanctum leaf extract. It is a critical concept in pharmacological studies, as it helps in evaluating the effectiveness of herbal remedies compared to standard drugs like diazepam. The results of various behavioral tests demonstrate its influence on anxiety-related behaviors in mice.
2) Drug:
A 'Drug' is a chemical substance used for medical purposes to diagnose, treat, or prevent diseases or disorders. In the study, the comparison to diazepam, a well-known anxiolytic, highlights the importance of establishing a benchmark to measure the effectiveness of Ocimum sanctum. The term is central to discussions of potential therapeutic applications in pharmacology.
3) Ocimum sanctum:
'Ocimum sanctum,' commonly known as Tulsi, is a revered medicinal plant native to India. Its leaves, which were studied for anxiolytic properties, are traditionally known for various health benefits, including stress relief. The investigation into this plant expands our understanding of natural remedies and their role in modern medicine.
4) Pharmacological:
The term 'Pharmacological' pertains to the study of drugs and their effects on biological systems. This study explores the pharmacological properties of Ocimum sanctum, specifically its potential anxiolytic effects. Understanding the pharmacological basis of its activity can lead to the development of natural alternatives to synthetic medications for anxiety management.
5) Discussion:
'Discussion' signifies the section where findings are interpreted and contextualized. In this research, the discussion elaborates on the significance of Ocimum sanctum's anxiolytic activity, reviews existing literature, and suggests further investigation into its therapeutic relevance. It is a crucial part of scientific writing that connects results to broader implications.
6) Anxiety:
'Anxiety' refers to a mental health condition characterized by feelings of worry, nervousness, and fear. The research focuses on anxiety-related behaviors in mice, highlighting the need for effective treatments. Understanding how Ocimum sanctum alleviates anxiety can inform both clinical practices and the development of herbal medicines targeting this pervasive condition.
7) Science (Scientific):
'Science' represents the systematic study of the structure and behavior of the physical and natural world through observation and experimentation. This research exemplifies scientific methodology as it tests the hypothesis regarding Ocimum sanctum's anxiolytic effects. The scientific approach is fundamental in validating traditional knowledge and discovering new therapeutic agents.
8) Water:
'Water' is essential for life and is often used as a solvent in biological experiments. In this study, mice were provided with water ad libitum, ensuring their hydration status was controlled. This is important for ethical animal research as it affects the overall health and behavior of the subjects during experimentation.
9) Ulcer:
'Ulcer' refers to a sore on the skin or a mucous membrane. In the context of this study, the authors mention previous research indicating that Ocimum sanctum may prevent chemically induced gastric ulcers. This highlights the plant's broader medicinal properties and encourages further exploration of its protective effects on the digestive system.
10) Arma:
'Arma' likely refers to the plural of 'arm,' indicating the parts of the elevated plus-maze used in behavioral tests. This means the open and closed arms where anxiety-related behaviors are assessed. Understanding how subjects interact with these arms provides insights into their anxiety levels, which is a crucial part of the experimental design.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Anxiolytic activity of ocimum sanctum leaf extract’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Ocimum sanctum, Experimental method, Pharmacological properties, Statistical analysis, Anxiolytic activity, Diazepam, Elevated plus maze test, Vacuum desiccator, Leaf extract, Therapeutic relevance, Control conditions.