Effects of Ocimum sanctum Linn (OS) leaf extract on stress, memory and attention in healthy humans

Anti-stress effects and memory enhancing effects of OS have been documented in animal models nut no human studies available. Double blinded RCT on healthy human adults.300mg capsules of ethanolic leaf extract of OS or placebo were administered to 30 volunteers for 30 days. Recordings were taken on day 0,15 and 30. Parameters assessed: a) STAI questionnaire b) Sternberg memory task c) Stroop task d) Heart rate (HR) & e) GSR. Results: showed significant improvement in reaction time p=0.043 in Sternberg task, and improved % of correct responses in facilitation task of Stroop (p=0.01). STAI, HR, GSR and P300 latency showed no significant change.P300 amplitude showed a significant increase (p=0.02).All changes were significant only at day 30. OS possesses memory enhancing effects at dose of 300mg/day od by 30 days. There is also significant improvement in attention as assessed by P300 amplitude. However no significant reductions in Stress parameters were seen at this dose/duration of OS. Further trials have to been conducted in more subjects and for longer duration for the effects to be validated