A Study on the Anti-inflammatory Effects of a Methanolic Extract of the Leaves of Ocimum sanctum

Aim of Study: The aim of this study was to establish a relationship between the anti-inflammatory
activities of the methanolic extract of Ocimum sanctum leaves (MEOS) with its fractions and to
effectively delineate the possible mechanisms of action for MEOS.
Materials and Methods: The anti-inflammatory activities of MEOS along with its components like
petroleum ether and chloroform fractions were evaluated in a Carrageenan induced model of acute
inflammation. The effect of MEOS on lipopolysaccharide induced production of nitric oxide (NO) in
macrophages was also studied both quantitatively and qualitatively.
Results: MEOS (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight) significantly reduced Carrageenan induced
paw edema; chloroform fraction was most potent in this task (66%, p < 0.001). MEOS was non-toxic
up to 125 microgm/ml in mouse peritoneal macrophages wherein it (0–100 microgm/ml) reduced
lipopolysaccharide induced NO production also.
Conclusion: MEOS possesses significant anti-inflammatory activity. Chloroform fraction of MEOS
showed best anti-inflammatory activity in this study.