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Phytochemicals and Micronutrients: A Review of Their Immunomodulatory Properties

  • Unique Paper ID: 173937
  • Volume: 11
  • Issue: 10
  • PageNo: 2307-2326
  • Abstract:
  • The demand for herbal medicines is growing among individuals due to their favorable benefit-risk ratio, which is often hard to achieve with synthetic and semi-synthetic drugs. It is essential to investigate the effectiveness and health advantages of various herbs. Research indicates that medicinal plants can treat numerous infectious diseases by influencing the components of the immune system. The antiviral properties of these herbs and their ability to enhance the Immunological response against infections & viral loads are noteworthy. Furthermore, effective prevention of infectious diseases can significantly decrease economic burdens and mortality rates in a cost-effective manner. However, one major hurdle to the acceptance of herbal treatments is the lack of rigorous testing and limited patient monitoring. Herbal extracts contain a variety of phytochemicals, including alkaloids, polyphenols, terpenoids, glucosinolates, and glycosides. Herbs can support the immune system in several ways. For instance, some enhance phagocytic activity in macrophages, with plants like Centella asiatica and Murraya koenigii functioning through this method. Others, such as Euphorbia hirta and Moringa oleifera, improve antibody production, linking to both cellular and humoral immunity. Additionally, herbs like Withania somnifera and Nigella sativa can boost cytokine levels and helper T-cell activity. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of these herbs also contribute to enhanced immune responses. Other contributing mechanisms, though less significant, include the inhibition of nitric oxide production, activation of superoxide dismutase, and free radical scavenging. A well-balanced immune system is crucial for human health; insufficient immune defense can lead to infections and tumors, while an overactive immune response can result in immune mediated diseases. Immunocompetence depends on proper nutrition, dietary adjustments, and adequate consumption of specific vitamins (like vitaminC, D, and folic acid) and minerals (like magnesium, zinc, and selenium). Consequently, deficiencies in these nutrients can weaken immunity. Many natural ingredients have demonstrated powerful immunomodulatory effects. Micronutrients play an important role in enhancing the immune system and may serve as effective agents in creating new immunomodulators, particularly in response to pandemics such as COVID-19.
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Cite This Article

  • ISSN: 2349-6002
  • Volume: 11
  • Issue: 10
  • PageNo: 2307-2326

Phytochemicals and Micronutrients: A Review of Their Immunomodulatory Properties

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