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Research: BARAK et al., Immunology
Listed in Issue 87
Abstract
BARAK et al., Immunology Laboratory for Tumor Diagnosis, Department of Oncology, Hadassah University Hospital, Jersualem, Israel, barak845@yahoo.com, investigated the effect of herbal remedies on the production of human inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines in monocytes.
Background
Some herbal remedies are believed to have immune-enhancing properties. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of five commonly used herbal remedies, all claimed to be immune-enhancers, on the production of cytokines, one of the main components of the immune system.
Methodology
The production of four inflammatory cytokines (interleukin-1 (IL-1) beta, tumor necrosis factor (TNF) alpha, IL-6 and IL-8) and one anti-inflammatory cytokine (IL-10) in blood-derived monocytes from 12 healthy donors was measured in response to the following 5 herbal remedies: Sambucol Black Elderberry Extract, Sambucol Active Defense Formula, Sambucol for Kids, Protec, and Chizukit N (containing propolis and Echinacea).
Results
The Sambucol products increased production of the five cytokines compared to controls. Protec induced only a moderate production of IL-8 and IL-10. Chizukit caused only a moderate increase in IL-10 production. Both Protec and Chizukit caused moderate decreases in IL-1 beta, TNF alpha, and IL-6 production. Lipopolysaccharide, a known activator of monocytes, induced the highest levels of cytokine production.
Conclusion
The three Sambucol formulations activate the healthy immune system by increasing inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokine production. The effect of Protec and Chizukit is much less. Sambucol could have immunostimulatory properties for patients suffering from influenza, or for immunodepressed cancer or AIDS patients.
References
Barak V, Berkenfeld S, Halperin T, Kalickman I. The effect of herbal remedies on the production of human inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines. The Israel Medical Association Journal 4 (11S): 919-922, Nov 2002.
