A REVIEW ON IMMUNOMODULATORY ACTIVITY OF HERBAL DRUGS IN INDIAN TRADITIONAL SYSTEMS OF MEDICINE

Abstract

Immunomodulators play a key role in immunity of each animal in this world. Almost all animals have their own system to produce different immunomodulators at different time. Herbal medicines constitute a major component in all traditional and alternative systems of medicines like siddha, ayurveda, homeopathy, naturopathy, yogic science and native american medicines. This review emphasizes on twenty-five herbal drugs including Withania somnifera, Morus Alba Linn, Acacia catechu, Achillea wilhelmsii, L. Panax ginseng, Garlic (Allium Sativum), Terminalia Arjuna, Rhus toxicodendron and many more for their Immunomodulatory potential. In addition, many of the immune-boosting and health promoting drugs are available in the market in various dosage forms like in the form of tablets, capsules, candies, juices, kadha, tea, chyawanprash, are also mentioned. Increase in the levels of total leucocytes count (TLC), Differential leucocytes count (DLC), foot paw volume, phagocytic index was observed in delayed type hypersensitivity (DTH) response, Neutrophil adhesion test, Acute paw anaphylaxis, phagocytosis, etc, are in vivo and in vitro biological screening methods used for the immunomodulatory activity. [2] Accordingly, this review provides numerous evidences which indicates that these medicinal drugs can be used for treating and boosting immune system and related complications. Keywords: Immune framework, Immune rule, Plant drugs, immunity boosters, marketed preparations.