Antioxidant Effects of Ocimum tenuiflorum on Catalase and Glutathione Peroxidase In Vivo

Background: Oxidative stress, driven by an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant defenses, is a critical factor in diabetes progression and complications, including neuropathy, nephropathy, and cardiovascular diseases. Ocimum tenuiflorum (Tulsi), known for its rich bioactive composition, has demonstrated antioxidant potential in various models. However, its specific effects on catalase and glutathione peroxidase, key antioxidant enzymes, in diabetic contexts remain underexplored. Methods: Ethanolic extracts of Ocimum tenuiflorum were prepared via maceration. Male Swiss strain mice, rendered diabetic using streptozotocin (STZ) injections, were divided into three groups: a control group and two treatment groups receiving 56 mg/kg and 112 mg/kg of Tulsi extract, respectively. Over 14 days, catalase and glutathione peroxidase activities were assessed spectrophotometrically. Statistical analysis involved one-way ANOVA and Bonferroni post hoc tests, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: A significant, dose-dependent increase in enzyme activities was observed. Catalase activity rose from 1.68 ± 0.11 U/mL in the control group to 2.44 ± 0.32 U/mL and 2.97 ± 0.18 U/mL in the 56 mg/kg and 112 mg/kg groups, respectively (p < 0.05). Similarly, glutathione peroxidase activity increased from 54.34 ± 3.76 U/mL in the control group to 77.59 ± 3.94 U/mL and 95.41 ± 4.71 U/mL in the treatment groups (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Ocimum tenuiflorum extract significantly enhances catalase and glutathione peroxidase activities in diabetic mice, suggesting its potential as an antioxidant therapy for managing oxidative stress in diabetes. These findings highlight the therapeutic promise of Tulsi's bioactive compounds in mitigating diabetes-related oxidative damage, warranting further clinical investigations.