Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Petroleum Ether Extract of Seeds of Ocimum Basilicum Linn

In the present study we have studied the effect of petroleum ether extract of seeds of the plant Ocimum basilicum Linn. on acute phase of inflammation induced by carrageenan and formalin. The chronic phase of inflammation was studied using cotton pellet granuloma technique. The increase in paw thickness was measured using digital vernier caliper after 1, 2, 3 and 4h of injection. Petroleum ether extract at dose of 400 mg/Kg significantly inhibited acute phase of inflammation induced by carrageenan and formalin. The decrease in the weight of granuloma was also found by the extract at dose of 400mg/kg. The study clearly shows that the petroleum ether extract of seeds of Ocimum basilicum Linn. possesses significant anti-inflammatory activity.