Antioxidant potential of basil (Ocimum spp.) genotypes grown in Serbia

Abstract

Basil (Ocimum spp. L, family Lamiaceae) has been grown traditionally in Serbia for decorative, medicinal, and as a spice used in cooking. In Orthodoxy it is used in religious services, and in India and Pakistan basil it is an herb dedicated to the Goddess Tulsa. Secondary metabolites from Ocimum species possess an exceptional biological activity and have: bactericide, fungicide, repellent, antiinflammatory, antioxidative, antidiarrheic, chemopreventive and radioprotective effects. The antioxidant potential of different genotypes was examined of Basil from Serbia according to their anti-radical capacity (Free Scavenging Capacity - RSC).The analyzed genotypes included: Genovese, Lattuga, Fino Verde, HolanDanin, Compact, Lime, Cinnamon, Siam Queen, Blu Spice, Purple Ruffles, Purple Opal, Osmin and Holy Red. The DPPH assay was used to measure stable free radicals. The analysis of these genotypes indicate that Purple Opal has the highest antioxidant potential of IC50=0,14 mg/ml.