ABSTRACT
The effects of various extracts of Ocimum basilicum leaf on biochemical indices of organ damage and oxidative stress status of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats were examined. Oral administration of 200mg/kg of aqueous, methanolic and petroleum ether extracts of the leaf for 35 days resulted in a significant (P<0.05) reduction in thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and an increase in catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats from diabetic levels. The leaf extracts brought about a significant (P>0.05) increase in serum protein and albumin as well as decreases in urea and creatinine levels of STZ – induced diabetic rats compared with diabetic control levels. The Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels increased significantly (P>0.05) in diabetic control group. The extracts caused a significant reduction in levels of AST and ALT in treated diabetic groups and maintained the normal level observed in normal rats. In this study a significant decrease in PCV was observed in diabetic control group and increase in the PCV in rats given extracts. It was concluded that the extracts have in vivo antioxidant, hepatoprotective and nephroprotective effects in STZ – induced diabetic rats. These results support its traditional use in the management of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.