Formulation and Evaluation of Herbal Neem Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

The purpose of this present research work was to formulate and evaluate anti-dandruff shampoo which was prepared from herbal plant Neem leaves and Tulsi. These two plants are major role in formulation of anti-dandruff shampoo with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity. The dandruff is a common disorder which is caused by yeast over growth, there is a fungus which is lives in the scalp of peoples called Malassezia. When a shampoo used under prescribed condition removes skin debris and the dirt from the scalp. Various antifungal and antimicrobial agents or drugs are uses in the preparation of shampoos, which causes the various side effects like hair loss, scratching, discomfort. An attempt to formulate Neem anti-dandruff shampoo which is safer and healthier than other anti-dandruff shampoo’s who are based on the chemicals. Herbal anti-dandruff shampoo formulated by all the herbal ingredients Neem leaves extract as API and anti-dandruff activity, Tulsi leaves which have the anti-microbial activity, Aloe vera which has moisturizing effect etc. The formulated shampoo were passed through evaluation parameter such as visual inspection, foaming capacity pH, viscosity, consistency of foam, etc.

Characteristic features and comparative analysis of essential oil composition of selected genus of Ocimum sanctum L. through GC-MS

Background & objectives: The main aim of this research is to provide literature on the Ocimum plant, and to know the significance of the Ocimum species carried out by pharmacognostic study and experimental design for GC-MS. Ocimum genus are very important for their therapeutic potential among the most important aromatic herbs. Methods: Extreme attention has been put on literature reports in which the utilization of tulsi and their pharmacognostic study has been done by performing morphological and microscopic leaf experimental design and by using essential oil through the GC-MS instrumentation method. Results:The utilization of these characteristics would be important for the drug discovery scientist to develop a specific formulation of the crude drug, which will be a magical therapeutic agent in the future, with many advantages. GC-MS chromatogram of Ocimum sanctum, Ocimum canum, and Ocimum gratissimum oil showed major peaks and has been identified after comparison of the mass spectra with the NIST library, indicating the presence of three phytocomponents. From the results, the GC-MS study suggested that anethole which is well reported antimicrobial compound is more in O. canum (2.66%) in comparison to O. sanctum (1,28%) but absent in O. gratissimum. The results indicated that the antimicrobial activity is more in O. canum due to the presence ofa high amount of anethole in comparison to O. gratissimum and O. sanctum. Interpretation & conclusion: The result revealed that O. canum has a microscopic character that can be identified by the characteristic GC MS analysis of extracts to distinguish between different species of the ocimum plant.

Efficacy of topical tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) paste for the management of oral submucous fibrosis – A clinical study

Context: Oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) is a chronic insidious oral potentially malignant disorder characterized by increased collagen deposition and reduced collagen degradation causing burning sensation and difficulty in mouth opening. Aim: To assess the efficacy of topical Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) paste for the management of OSMF. Settings and Design: Institution?based clinical trial. Materials and Methods: The study included a total of 60 OSMF patients categorized into three Groups A, B and C (20 in each) depending on the severity according to Lai DR et al. classification. The patients were advised for topical Tulsi paste application and were evaluated for the reduction in the burning sensation and improvement in mouth opening every month for 3 subsequent months using the numeric pain rating scale (NRS) and a Vernier calliper, respectively. Statistical Analysis: The baseline and 3?month recordings were subjected to inter? and intra?group statistical analysis using Kruskal–Wallis analysis of variance (ANOVA), Mann–Whitney U, one?way ANOVA, Tukey’s multiple post?hoc and Wilcoxon matched?pairs tests. Results: There was a reduction in the burning sensation and improvement in the mouth opening in all three groups. The reduction in the burning sensation was statistically significant among all the groups (P < 0.05) and the NRS scores after 3 months among the three groups were not statistically significant (P > 0.05). There was a statistically significant difference (P < 0.05) in the improvement of mouth opening between Group A and B; A and C; but not between B and C. Conclusion: Tulsi paste showed a significant reduction in the burning sensation and improvement of the mouth opening thereby proving to be a safe and promising medicament for OSMF

Studies On Antiviral Activity Of Tulsi (ocimum Sanctum) Crude Extracts On Selected Viruses Of Veterinary Importance

Viral diseases are the major causes of devastations in the human history and animal farming worldwide. Bacterial and parasitic diseases have been controlled by use of effective disinfectants, antibiotics and antiparasitic agents. Since, viruses are intracellular and any intervention will affect the cellular metabolism of the host, development of antiviral drugs is a challenge. Drugs acting on microbial agents have been mentioned in Ayurvedic texts as Krimighna Dravyas. Tulsi, Ocimum sanctum is one of the most important medicinal plants mentioned in Ayurvedic literature for its medicinal and spiritual properties. The plant is an highly celebrated medicinal plant as “The incomparable one,†“Mother medicine of nature†and “The queen of herbsâ€. Tulsi, along with other health benefits is known to have anti-infective functions. Hence, antiviral activity of aqueous, ethanol, methanol and chloroform extract of powdered drugs was evaluated against economically important viruses of veterinary importance, Orthmyxovirus and Paramyxovirus. The in vitro cytotoxicity confirmed the safety of the extracts and aqueous extract showed no inhibition on paramyxovirus while showing moderate inhibitory activity on orthomyxovirus while ethanol extract showed moderate inhibitory activity on paramyxovirus and no activity on orthomyxoviruses. Methanol extract showed no inhibition of paramyxovirus while showed significant inhibition of orthomyxovirus. Chloroform extract of the plant showed no inhibition paramyxovirus while significant inhibition was observed on orthomyxoviurs. Results of the study suggest that the O. sanctum can be used as antiviral agent for effective control of viral infections of animal importance.

Evaluation of antipsychotic effect of methanolic extract of Ocimum sanctum leaves on laboratory animals.

Ocimum sanctum (Lamiaceae) commonly known as tulsi, is well known for its excellent nutritional and medicinal values throughout the world. The present study was undertaken to test the effect of methanolic extract of Ocimum sanctum leaves (50, 100 and 200mg/kg, p.o) on psychosis employing Ketamine induced stereotypic behaviour in mice and Pole climbing avoidance in rats. Haloperidol (1mg/kg, i.p.) and Olanzapine (5mg/kg, i.p.) are established antipsychotic drugs used as standard drugs in the present study. Effect of methanolic extract of Ocimum sanctum leaves (OS), on brain dopamine levels was also estimated. Methanolic extract of Ocimum sanctum leaves (50, 100 and 200mg/kg, p.o), significantly reduced the Ketamine induced falling, weaving, head bobbing and turning behavior in mice. Furthermore, it significantly delayed the latency time taken by the rats to climb the pole. Haloperidol (1mg/kg; i.p.) and Olanzapine (5mg/kg, i.p.) significantly reduced the Ketamine induced stereotypic behavior in mice and condition avoidance behavior in rats. Interestingly, Brain dopamine level was significantly reduced by methanolic extract of Ocimum sanctum leaves. These findings, when taken together indicate that methanolic extract of Ocimum sanctum leaves possesses anti-psychotic like property.

Amelioration of inflammation by phenolic rich methanolic extract of Ocimum sanctum Linn. leaves in isoproterenol induced myocardial infarction.

Myocardial infarction (MI) is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Oxidative stress and inflammation play vital role in the development of MI. The Indian basil or Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum Linn.), owing to its antioxidant potential,is used in the traditional system of Indian medicine to treat various disorders. We evaluated methanolic extract of O. sanctum (Tulsi) leaves on inflammation in isoproterenol (ISP) induced MI in rats. ISP-induced MI increased the levels of cardiac markers, phospholipases and phospholipid content. However, the same were reduced on pre-treatment with methanolic extract of O. sanctum leaves. The activities of 5-lipoxygenase and cycloxygenase-2 and levels of leukotriene B4 and thromboxane B2 were also elevated in ISP-treated rats, which were significantly decreased (P <0.001) in extract pre-treated rats. The enhanced mRNA expressions of nuclear factor kappa-B, 5-lipoxygenase activating protein and receptor for leukotriene B4 on MI induction, were considerably reduced (P <0.001) on extract pre-treatment. Histopathological analysis also confirmed the findings. The results also revealed the high phenolic content of methanolic extract of O. sanctum leaves. The study demonstrated that methanolic extract of Tulsi leaves can decrease inflammation in the cardiac tissue of ISP-induced MI in rats and its effect may be through downregulation of oxidative stress and arachidonic acid pathway. This cardioprotective effect may be due to the high phenolic content of methanolic extract of O. sanctum leaves.

Clinical evaluation of the role of tulsi and turmeric in the management of oral submucous fibrosis: A pilot, prospective observational study.

The aim of the present study was to investigate the clinical efficacy of herbal medicines (1 gm tulsi and 1 gm turmeric mixed in glycerine base) for the treatment of oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF). Forty‑one patients in the age group of 17- 56 years without any systemic complications were included in the study. The patients were treated with medicines, which were to be applied 3-4 times a day. Blood samples were collected before and after treatment to screen for any systemic changes due to these medications. Burning sensation and mouth opening were recorded before and after treatment. Patients were followed up on monthly subsequent visits for three months. Changes in the burning sensation on visual analogue scale (VAS) scale and difference in the mouth opening were analyzed statistically. A statistically significant improvement was seen in both burning sensation and mouth opening. Tulsi and turmeric offers a safe and efficacious combination of natural products available for symptomatic treatment of OSMF.

Tulsi - Ocimum sanctum: A herb for all reasons.

The predominant cause of global morbidity and mortality is lifestyle‑related chronic diseases, many of which can be addressed through Ayurveda with its focus on healthy lifestyle practices and regular consumption of adaptogenic herbs. Of all the herbs used within Ayurveda, tulsi (Ocimum sanctum Linn) is preeminent, and scientific research is now confirming its beneficial effects. There is mounting evidence that tulsi can address physical, chemical, metabolic and psychological stress through a unique combination of pharmacological actions. Tulsi has been found to protect organs and tissues against chemical stress from industrial pollutants and heavy metals, and physical stress from prolonged physical exertion, ischemia, physical restraint and exposure to cold and excessive noise. Tulsi has also been shown to counter metabolic stress through normalization of blood glucose, blood pressure and lipid levels, and psychological stress through positive effects on memory and cognitive function and through its anxiolytic and anti‑depressant properties. Tulsi’s broad‑spectrum antimicrobial activity, which includes activity against a range of human and animal pathogens, suggests it can be used as a hand sanitizer, mouthwash and water purifier as well as in animal rearing, wound healing, the preservation of food stuffs and herbal raw materials and traveler’s health. Cultivation of tulsi plants has both spiritual and practical significance that connects the grower to the creative powers of nature, and organic cultivation offers solutions for food security, rural poverty, hunger, environmental degradation and climate change. The use of tulsi in daily rituals is a testament to Ayurvedic wisdom and provides an example of ancient knowledge offering solutions to modern problems.

Evaluation And Comparison Of Antimicrobial Activity Of Tulsi (Ocimum Sanctum), Neem (Azadirachta Indica) And Triphala Extract Against Streptococcus Mutans&Lactobacillus Acidophilus: An In Vitro Study.

Background and Objectives: This in vitro study was designed to evaluate and compare the antimicrobial effects of extracts of Neem sticks, Tulsi leaves and Triphala against Streptococcus Mutans and Lactobacillus Acidophilus.Materials and Methods: Sterile solutions of 10% & 25% concentrations were prepared from Neem, Tulsi and Triphala extracts. After growing on culture plates micro-organisms were transferred to nutrient agar; antimicrobial activity of the extracts was tested after 48 h. Results: Mean zones of inhibition against Streptococcus Mutans&Lactobacillus Acidophilus after 24hrs for 10% neem extract is 0.7 & 0.2mm and for 25% neem extract is 1.1 & 0.9 mm respectively. For 10% tulsi extract is 0.3 & 0.2mm and for 25% tulsi extract is 0.5 & 0.6 mm respectively. And for 10% triphala extract is 0.0 & 0.0mm and for 25% triphala extract is 0.1 & 0.0 mm respectively. Interpretation and conclusion: Extracts of neem and tulsi demonstrated an antimicrobial activity but triphla has been failed to show antimicrobial activity against S Mutans and L Acidophilus. This in vitro evaluation is an attempt to encourage further studies comparing the antimicrobial effects of different ayurvedic extracts on prevalence of caries.

Microwave Assisted Biosynthesis of Silver Nano-particles by Aqueous Extract of Ocimum Sanctum (Tulsi).

Owing to widespread applications, synthesis and characterization of silver nanoparticles is recently attracting considerable attention. Increasing environmental concerns over chemical synthesis routes have resulted in attempts to develop biomimetic approaches. One of them is synthesis using plant parts, which eliminates the elaborate process of maintaining the microbial culture and often found to be kinetically favorable than other bioprocesses. The present study deals with investigating the effect of process microwave irradiation, interaction time on the morphology and size of silver nanoparticles synthesized using aqueous extract of Tulsi. Plant extract from ocimum sanctum (Tulsi) was used for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) from silver nitrate solution. Silver nanoparticles were characterized by UV-Vis spectrophotometer and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The formation and stability of the reduced silver nanoparticles in the colloidal solution was monitored by UV-Vis spectrophotometer analysis. Nanoparticles ranges from 20 to 40 nm in size with nearly spherical shape were produced. SEM determination of the brown color stable samples showed the formation of silver nanoparticles and well dispersed nanoparticles could be seen in the samples treated with silver nitrate. These silver nanoparticles have proven to be stable for more than 3 months. It can be inferred from the study that fne tuning the bioprocess parameters will enhance possibilities of desired nano-product tail or made for particular applications.

Assessment of precipitate formation on interaction of irrigants used in different combinations: An in vitro study.

Introduction: Irrigants play an essential role in the successful debridement and disinfection of pulp space. Various combination of irrigants used during root canal treatment enhance their efficacy, but some form precipitates which affects the diffusion of intracanal medicaments and the seal of the obturated root canal. Aim: To evaluate the combination of various irrigants whether it forms the precipitate and also to quantify the amount of precipitate formed. Materials and Methods: Five different irrigants were taken in ten test tubes each having the combination of two irrigants and observed for 2 min for precipitate formation. Results: One-way-ANOVA test revealed more amounts of precipitate with 2% Chlorhexidine (CHX) 5% Tulsi followed by 2% CHX, 5% Neem and 3% Sodium hypochlorite 2% CHX. Conclusion: Precipitate formation is seen more with the 2% CHX-5% Neem followed by 2% CHX-5% Tulsi when compared with the control group. When these combinations of irrigants were used, intermediate flushes of saline or distilled water reduced the amount of precipitate.

Ethanopharmacological and Phytochemical Aspects of Ocimum sanctum Linn- The Elixir of Life.

Ocimum sanctum Linn. (Tulsi), a sacred and traditional medicinal plant of India which belongs to the family Lamiaceae possesses innumerable health benefits and therefore regarded as the “Elixir of Life”. The entire plant body including its leaves, stem, root, inflorescence and seed are proved to be significant medicinal value and hence it is one among the inevitable plant used in the preparation of various ayurvedic pharmacological products. The plant is a rich source of various components including eugenol, Vicenin- 2, linoleic acid, oleic acid, rosmarinic acid, Ocimarin, isorientin, orientin, isovitexin, aesculectin, aesculin, chlorgrnic acid, galuteolin, circineol, gallic acid, Citronellal, Camphene, Sabinene, Dimethyl benzene, Myrecene, Ethyl benzene, Limocene, Vitamin C, Calcium, Phosphorous and many more. The plant truly deserves the title ‘Elixir of Life’ due to its Ethanopharmacological properties such as Anti- diabetic, Anti- cancerous, Analgesic, Anti- inflammatory, Radiopreotective, Hepatoprotective, Anti- microbial, Immunomodulatory effect, cardioprotective, Anti- coagulant, Anti- fertility, Anti- oxidant, Neuroprotective and the line-up found to be multitudinous. This review elucidates indepth literature survey particularly focussing the phytochemical constituents of Tulsi as well as extrapolating its Ethanopharmacological property.

Evaluation of the antimicrobial activity of various concentrations of Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) extract against Streptococcus mutans: An in vitro study.

Aim: To determine if Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) extract has an antimicrobial activity against Streptococcus mutans and to determine which concentration of Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) extract among the 15 concentrations investigated has the maximum antimicrobial activity. Setting and Design: Experimental design, in vitro study, Lab setting. Materials and Methods: Ethanolic extract of Tulsi was prepared by the cold extraction method. The extract was then diluted with an inert solvent, dimethyl formamide, to obtain 15 different concentrations (0.5%, 1%, 1.5%, 2%, 2.5%, 3%, 3.5%, 4%, 4.5%, 5%, 6%, 7% 8%, 9%, 10%) of the extract. 0.2% chlorhexidine was used as a positive control and dimethyl formamide was used as a negative control. The extract, along with the controls, was then subjected to microbiological investigation to determine which concentration among the 15 different concentrations of the extract gave a wider inhibition zone against Streptococcus mutans. The zones of inhibition were measured in millimeters using a vernier caliper. Results: At the 4% concentration of Tulsi extract, a zone of inhibition of 22 mm was obtained. This was the widest zone of inhibition observed among all the 15 different concentrations of Tulsi that were investigated. Conclusion: Tulsi extract demonstrated an antimicrobial property against Streptococcus mutans.

Effect of Ocimum Sanctum Linn (Tulsi) on body weight and some biochemical parameters in restraint stressed albino rats.

Background: With the increased trend of urbanization of our society, the incidence of various stress related diseases are increasing day by day. People under chronic stress often tends to seek relief through drugs, which may have side effects. But some natural supplements called adaptogen, can be more beneficial in reducing symptoms of stress. Objective: The present animal model experimental study was designed to observe the effects of restraint stress on body weight, serum ALT, AST, Glucose, Cholesterol and their modifications by Ocimum sanctum Linn (tulsi) pretreatment which is an Ayurvedic adaptogen and has a long history of therapeutic use. Study design: For this purpose, 30 albino rats aged 90 to 120 days were included in this study. Twenty rats of experimental group were further subdivided into two groups. One group consisted of 10 rats exposed to one hour restraint stress daily for 7 days and 10 rats of the second group were pretreated with tulsi for 7 days before exposure to stress in the same way. 10 non stressed , non pretreated rats were taken into control group.This study was undertaken in the laboratory of the Department of Physiology,BSMMU during the period from July 2003 to June 2004. Methods: The body weight of all control rats were recorded daily in the morning. Body weight of the experimental rats were recorded just before exposure to stress. After completing the experiment , the animals were sacrificed and blood was collected . Serum glucose, cholesterol and ALT,ASTwere determined by standard laboratory technique. Data were compared among the groups and the results were statistically analyzed using unpaired student t’ test. Results : The body weight in untreated stressed group was significantly lower (p<0.001) than those of the control group and tulsi pretreated group. Serum levels of glucose, cholesterol, aminotrasferases (ALT and AST) were significantly higher (p<0.001) in stressed group than those of control . Again in Tulsi treated group all these biochemical parameters were significantly lower (p<0.001) than those of stressed group. This restraint stress-induced changes in body weight and biochemical parameters may be due to hypophagia, altered secretion of various metabolic hormones and neurotransmitters, changes in membrane permeability & hypovolaemia resulting from stress induced secretion of corticosterone and epinephrine through hypothalamo-pituitary adrenal axis activation. Conclusion: Prevention of stress induced changes in biochemical parameter by tulsi pre treatment indicates its anti stressor effect.