Preliminary ex-vivo and an animal model evaluation of Ocimum sanctum's essential oil extract for its antibacterial and anti- inflammatory properties.

Aim: To evaluate the essential oil extract of the au Ocimum sanctum for its antibacterial and anti inflammatory efficacy.

Methods: The essential oil extract was prepared in the Clevenger's apparatus. Antibacterial efficacy was tested against Enterococcus faecalis at two concentrations i.e. 100 & 50%. Bacterial growth was measured spectrophotometrically and percentage inhibition was calculated. Anti- inflammatory efficacy was tested on an established adult albino rat model. Autoclaved cotton pellets were used for inducing the chronic inflammatory conditions for 7 days. On day 8, the cotton pellets induced granuloma were excised, dried and weighed. The percentage inhibition of the granuloma was calculated.

Results: The essential oil extract of Ocimum sanctum showed antibacterial efficacy, which improved with an increase in concentration and contact period. It also had a significant (p=0.034) anti- inflammatory action.

Conclusion: This ex-vivo and an animal model study documented the antibacterial and anti- inflammatory properties of the essential oil extract of Ocimum sanctum, for its proposed use as an intracanal medicament.