Ocimum basilicum extract modulates Tau aggregation and improves memory function in a neurodegenerative rat model

Alzheimer disease (AD) is a neurological condition that worsens with time. Ocimum basilicum is a well-known plant that has been used for centuries in many different cultures throughout the world as a treatment for lung disorders, anti-diarrhea medication, painkiller for the abdomen, and anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. The main objective of this study was evaluation of the neuroprotective potential effect of Ocimum basilicum on oxidative stress status in rat induced AD. Fifty rats were divided into five groups (10 rats/group) such as i) Control, ii) AlCl3-induced AD, iii) AlCl3 rats treated with rivastigmine (3 mg/kg/day), iv) AlCl3 rats treated with Ocimum basilicum (250 mg/kg/day), and v) AlCl3 rats treated with Ocimum basilicum (500 mg/kg/day). The results showed that the Ocimum basilicum plant leaves extract increased serum superoxide dismutase with a significant decrease of a serum MDA while the aggregation of tau protein expression was decreased. Histological changes were observed in brain tissues of AD rats. However, the high dosing of the plant leaves extract (500 mg/kg) was more powerful than the low treatment with low dose (250 mg/kg) by decreasing tau protein expression. The results suggest that Ocimum basilicum can relieve symptoms and prevent the progression of AD severity by improving memory function. It can be concluded that Ocimum basilicum leaves alleviated the memory impairment and learning abilities due to antioxidants activity of flavonoids, tannins and terpenoids.