Awareness about Anti-microbial Applications of Ocimum sanctum Herb

Abstract

Ocimum sanctum happens to be an aromatic shrub belonging to the basil family Lamiaceae. This herb has originated in central India and grown throughout the eastern part of the world. Ocimum sanctum is recommended as a treatment for a wide range of both infectious and non-infectious diseases. This survey was performed for assessing the awareness about antimicrobial applications of Ocimum sanctum herb. A cross-sectional study was done with a self-administered questionnaire with ten questions circulated among 100 dental students. The questionnaire assessed the awareness about Ocimum sanctum therapy in medical applications, their anti-microbial, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-fungal, anti-parasitic and anti-ulcer activity. The responses were recorded and analysed.83% of the respondents were not aware of anti-microbial applications of Ocimum sanctum therapy .74% were not aware of anti-bacterial properties of Ocimum sanctum therapy .85% were not aware of anti-fungal properties of Ocimum sanctum therapy. 69% were not aware of the anti-viral properties of Ocimum sanctum therapy. 73% were not aware of anti-parasitic activity Ocimum sanctum therapy. 76% were not aware of anti-ulcer activity of Ocimum sanctum. The awareness about the use of Ocimum sanctum therapy in antimicrobial applications is low among dental students. Increased awareness programs and sensitization and continuing dental education programs along with greater importance to the curricular modifications, can further enhance knowledge and awareness about Ocimum sanctum therapy.