Evaluation of antianxiety activity of ethanolic extract of leaves of Ocimum sanctum (tulsi) in albino mice

Background: Anxiety is a normal emotional behavior, however, becomes pathological precipitating cardiovascular and psychiatric disorders when it is severe. Many allopathic drugs are available to treat anxiety disorders, among which benzodiazepines are most commonly used which possess various systemic side effects. Aims and Objectives: In our study, we have attempted to evaluate new compound Ocimum sanctum (OS) in the hope of identifying the anxiolytics with fewer side effects as many plant products have been claimed to be free from side effects and less toxic than synthetic drugs. Materials and Methods: The anxiolytic activity of ethanolic extract of OS is evaluated with two validated modes, elevated plus maze and light and dark exploration test. A total of 60 animals (n = 60) were used. They were divided into five groups of six animals each for both models. The effects of the test drug OS at three different doses 1.75, 4.25, and 8.5 mg/kg were compared with the standard anxiolytic diazepam at 1 mg/kg dose and control group using 1% gum acacia at 10 ml/kg dose 1 h after administration of the drug. Results: The behavioral changes in both paradigms are suggestive of decreased anxiety, decreased aversion to light and increased exploratory behavior of the animal which is comparable changes produced by the standard drug diazepam concluding that OS has anxiolytic activity. Conclusion: OS has potential clinical application in the management of anxiety disorders. Further investigation of the mechanism/mechanisms of action of the plant extract, as well as the active substance/substances responsible for its biological actions, is necessary.