In vitro immunostimulation activity of Nigella sativa Linn. And psoralea Corylifolia Linn. seeds using a murine macrophage cell line

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study is to analyze the phytochemical constituents and the in vitro immunomodulatory potential of ethanol extract of Nigella sativa and Psoralea corylifolia seeds. Methods: Phytoconstituents in the ethanol extract of N. sativa and P. corylifolia seeds were analyzed using gas chromatography and mass spectrum and their immunomodulatory activity was investigated in vitro by cell proliferation assay with J774A.1 cell line. Results: Thirteen biochemical constituents have been identified with ethanol extract of N. sativa and nine from the P. corylifolia. The maximum relative activity of 138.77±0.44% cell proliferation was expressed at 25 μg/ml by N. sativa and 80.70±0.42% of proliferation by P. corylifolia at 25 μg/ml. Conclusion: The results suggest that the ethanol extract of the plant seeds have stimulating activity on macrophage cells and could be useful for modulating immune functions.