Author(s):

Joan Manjuh Tankam, Michiho Ito

Abstract: In this study, the behavioral effects of inhalation of the essential oil of Ocimum gratissimum from Cameroon were investigated. The open field test, light/dark box test, tail suspension test and Rota-rod test were used to assess the sedative, anxiolytic-like, antidepressant-like and motor coordination effects respectively, in mice. GC and GC/MS analyses were performed to investigate the chemical composition of O. gratissimum essential oil. Phytochemical analysis revealed thymol (68%) as main compound of O. gratissimum essential oil. Inhalation of O. gratissimum essential oil showed potent sedative, anxiolytic and antidepressant-like effects in mice, and did not cause any deleterious effects on motor coordination. It is suggested that a synergistic effect of the constituents of O. gratissimum essential oil might account for its sedative activity. In conclusion, inhalation of O. gratissimum essential oil might have aromatherapeutic potential.

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