Ocimum tenuiflorum extract (HOLIXERTM): Possible effects on hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis in modulating stress

The bidirectional influence between type 2 diabetes mellitus and the state of depression and anxiety

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a prevalent chronic disease with several complications that has a negative impact on patients' physical and mental health. People's life pressures are increasing as society develop, resulting in a series of adverse emotions. If it is not paid attention to for a long time, it will lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental disorders. Depression and anxiety can occur separately or simultaneously, both of which are highly correlated. In recent years, the incidence of T2DM with the state of depression and anxiety has increased significantly. According to recent research, the state of depression and anxiety might increase the prevalence of T2DM and accelerate its progression by influencing patient's behavioral style and biological mechanisms. T2DM can also aggravate patients' state of depression and anxiety, worsening their life quality. However, few reviews have discussed the association between T2DM and the state of depression and anxiety. In order to reduce the prevalence of the two diseases, we ought to investigate them more thoroughly so that readers can recognize the close connection between the two and take appropriate interventions. Therefore, this article mainly discusses the interaction between T2DM and the state of depression and anxiety from behavioral and biological mechanisms, the effects of common hypoglycemic drugs on the state of depression and anxiety, and the effects of antidepressant anxiety treatments on T2DM. These three aspects are intended to shed light on the interaction between the two so as to find the appropriate interventions to reduce morbidity.

Assessment of genotoxicity and acute oral toxicity of a standardized Ocimum tenuiflorum extract (HolixerTM)

Ocimum tenuiflorum, commonly referred to as holy basil or Tulsi, has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly Ayurveda, due to its various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and adaptogenic properties. In contemporary contexts, this plant is progressively incorporated into dietary supplements and nutraceuticals. Given its widespread use and potential health beneficial properties, it is imperative to scientifically evaluate the safety of Ocimum tenuiflorum. This study presents comprehensive safety assessments of a standardized extract of Ocimum tenuiflorum. We conducted a series of genotoxicity studies, including the bacterial reverse mutation test (BRMT), in-vitro mammalian chromosomal aberration (CA) test, and in-vivo mammalian erythrocyte micronucleus (MN) test in Swiss Albino mice. Additionally, an acute oral toxicity study was performed using Sprague Dawley rats, adhering to OECD guidelines in a GLP-compliant laboratory. The results showed no mutagenic effect with O. tenuiflorum extract up to a dose of 5000 µg/plate in BRMT. The results of CA test revealed the non clastogenic activity of O. tenuiflorum extract up to a dose of 500 µg/mL with and without metabolic activation (S9). Ocimum tenuiflorum extract was found to be non-clastogenic at the highest tested dose of 2000 mg/kg bodyweight in invivo MN test. In acute oral toxicity study, O. tenuiflorum extract was found to be safe up to 5 g/kg bodyweight in Wistar rats. Collectively, these findings suggest that Ocimum tenuiflorum extract is non-genotoxic and safe for oral consumption up to 5000 mg/kg body weight in Sprague Dawley rats.

A comprehensive review on the pharmacological role of gut microbiome in neurodegenerative disorders: potential therapeutic targets

Neurological disorders, including Alzheimer and Parkinson's, pose significant challenges to public health due to their complex etiologies and limited treatment options. Recent advances in research have highlighted the intricate bidirectional communication between the gut microbiome and the central nervous system (CNS), revealing a potential therapeutic avenue for neurological disorders. Thus, this review aims to summarize the current understanding of the pharmacological role of gut microbiome in neurological disorders. Mounting evidence suggests that the gut microbiome plays a crucial role in modulating CNS function through various mechanisms, including the production of neurotransmitters, neuroactive metabolites, and immune system modulation. Dysbiosis, characterized by alterations in gut microbial composition and function, has been observed in many neurological disorders, indicating a potential causative or contributory role. Pharmacological interventions targeting the gut microbiome have emerged as promising therapeutic strategies for neurological disorders. Probiotics, prebiotics, antibiotics, and microbial metabolite-based interventions have shown beneficial effects in animal models and some human studies. These interventions aim to restore microbial homeostasis, enhance microbial diversity, and promote the production of beneficial metabolites. However, several challenges remain, including the need for standardized protocols, identification of specific microbial signatures associated with different neurological disorders, and understanding the precise mechanisms underlying gut-brain communication. Further research is necessary to unravel the intricate interactions between the gut microbiome and the CNS and to develop targeted pharmacological interventions for neurological disorders.

Comparative Anti-inflammatory Activity of Silver and Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Synthesized Using Ocimum tenuiflorum and Ocimum gratissimum Herbal Formulations

Background The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the anti-inflammatory properties of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) that were synthesized utilizing African tulsi and black tulsi herbal formulations. The anti-inflammatory activity was assessed by the utilization of bovine serum albumin (BSA) denaturation and egg albumin denaturation tests. In addition, a membrane stabilization experiment was performed to evaluate their efficacy as anti-inflammatory drugs. Methods This study was conducted at Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Saveetha University, Chennai, India. AgNPs and ZnONPs were synthesized using Ocimum tenuiflorum (African tulsi) and Ocimum gratissimum (black tulsi) extracts. The BSA denaturation assay involved mixing serum albumin with different nanoparticle concentrations (10-50 µg/mL) and measuring absorbance at 660 nm. The egg albumin denaturation assay followed a similar procedure. The membrane stabilization assay utilized red blood cells and spectrophotometric measurements at 540 nm. Results In the BSA denaturation assay, AgNPs and ZnONPs showed concentration-dependent inhibition of protein denaturation. While these nanoparticles exhibited anti-inflammatory potential, diclofenac sodium consistently displayed slightly stronger inhibition. In the egg albumin denaturation assay, AgNPs and ZnONPs inhibited protein denaturation at various concentrations. Their anti-inflammatory effects were comparable to the standard drug, diclofenac sodium. In the membrane stabilization assay, both nanoparticle types demonstrated concentration-dependent membrane stabilization effects. Diclofenac sodium exhibited slightly stronger membrane stabilization. Conclusions AgNPs and ZnONPs synthesized using Ocimum tenuiflorum and Ocimum gratissimum (African tulsi and black tulsi) possess anti-inflammatory potential, as demonstrated by their inhibition of protein denaturation and membrane stabilization. While these nanoparticles show promise as anti-inflammatory agents, further research is needed to explore their clinical applications and safety profiles.