Effects of ethanol extracts of gynura procumbens on in-vivo phagocytosis of wistar albino rats

Abstract

Gynura procumbens is a traditional medicinal plant that is commonly used in Southeast Asia for treatment of various ailments. Nonetheless, there is very limited information on the effect of Gynura procumbens on the immune system. This preliminary study evaluates Gynura procumbens immunomodulatory properties of ethanol extracts at four dose levels ranging from 100 to 400 mg/kg body weight by focusing on the effects on phagocytic activity of macrophages on healthy female Wistar albino rat models. Assessments on phagocytosis enhancement were evaluated using carbon clearance test together with the examination on the mortality, behavioral changes, blood cells count, and serum biochemistry. The result from carbon clearance test showed significant increase of phagocytic index (P<0.05) on Gynura procumbens extract treated group of all doses. Furthermore, this study also demonstrates that there were no significant changes in the general condition, haematological counts, and biochemistry values from the Gynura procumbens treated groups in comparison to the control group. These findings demonstrate the potential of Gynura procumbens as an immunomodulatory agent.