The herbal plant holi 'Tulsi' (Indian Basil), grows in our country yard is so far being used as a home remedy for cough, cold and other ailments, but it has a higher healing tendency, the scientists of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) have claimed.
According to DRDO scientists, Tulsi (Scientific Name: Ocimum sanctum) can heal the persons suffering from harmful radiations. In this regard, the scientists of organization has conducted several researchers and developed a herbal medicine that can be used for treating people exposed to radiations.
The initial tests have shown some positive results.
The scientists of DRDO?s Institute of Nuclear Medicines and Allied Sciences with the researchers of Department of Radiobiology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, have successfully tested tulsi extracts on mice for its anti-radiation and anti-cancer properties.
"Tulsi-based medicine is already in second phase of clinical trials. We need to conduct a few more tests and take up phase II trials before it is released for general use," said DRDO's chief controller (R&D) W Selvamurthy while speaking at the 99th edition of the Indian Science Congress held in Bhubaneshwar Odhisa on Sunday.
"Animal trials have also been conducted and their results were quite encouraging," he added.
Highlighting the characteristics of 'Tulsi' as herbal medicines, DRDO scientists said tulsi has anti-oxidant properties and can repair cells damaged by exposure to radiation.
"The medicines used for treating radiation-related ailments are very toxic in nature. These herbal medicines would change the way radiation treatment takes place as they would be quite safe," scientists stressed.
Scientists have also developed several other herbal medicines, some especially for the Indian Army.
(With the agencies input)
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