Various species of genus Ocimum have been extensively studied for their pharmacological activity. Ocimum basilicum Linn is expected to possess many constituents among them triterpenoids are also major constituents. So that it might be possible that Ocimum basilicum Linn may possess anthelmintic activity. In the present work ethanolic and aqueous extract of leaves of Ocimum basilicum Linn were evaluated for its anthelmintic activity against earthworm and tapeworm at three different concentrations (25, 50, 100 mg/ml). The anthelmintic activity of both extracts was comparable with standard drug (piperazine citrate, 50 mg/ml) having same concentration. Animal treated with distilled water was taken as a normal control. Standard drug solution was prepared in distilled water. Activity was evaluated by noting the time required for paralysis and death of worms by extracts. The data shows that ethanolic extract (100 mg/ml concentration) possess comparable anthelmintic activity with standard drug. The results show that the plant has the potential to be used as anthelmintic.
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