Preliminary studies on the immunopotentiating effects of ayurvedic prep
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Preliminary studies on the immunopotentiating action of some ayurvedic preparations
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
This page presents a generated summary with additional references; See source (below) for actual content.
Original source:
This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.
K. Suresh, K. Nirmala, Donata, Sr., M. Kesavan, D. M. Vasudevan
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Preliminary studies on the immunopotentiating action of some ayurvedic preparations
Year: 1988
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
Download the PDF file of the original publication
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The preliminary study aimed to evaluate the immunopotentiating effects of certain Ayurvedic preparations on the immune status of patients suffering from cancer and rheumatoid arthritis. Recognizing that cancer may arise from a breakdown in immune surveillance, the researchers posited that Ayurvedic drugs, known for their immune-boosting properties, could potentially be beneficial in cancer therapy. The study assessed the T and B cell counts in the peripheral circulation of healthy controls, rheumatoid arthritis patients, and cancer patients before and after treatment with Ayurvedic preparations.
Immunological Effects of Ayurvedic Treatment
The results indicated that T cell counts in cancer patients showed a slight enhancement following Ayurvedic treatment, while the B cell count remained unchanged. In contrast, no significant alterations were observed in the T and B cell counts among rheumatoid arthritis patients after one month of treatment. The methodology involved comparing T and B lymphocyte counts through specific techniques, including the formation of rosettes between lymphocytes and sheep erythrocytes, and a delayed hypersensitivity test using PPD. The outcomes suggested that while some positive changes occurred in cancer patients, the treatment did not significantly affect the immune parameters in rheumatoid arthritis patients.
Conclusion
The findings from this preliminary study revealed encouraging results regarding the immunopotentiating actions of certain Ayurvedic preparations, particularly in cancer patients. While significant changes were not observed in the rheumatoid arthritis group, the slight enhancement in T cell counts among cancer patients warrants further investigation. Given the small sample size of this study, continued research with larger patient groups and extended follow-up periods is necessary to substantiate these findings and fully understand the therapeutic potential of Ayurvedic medicine in managing immune-related disorders.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What was the aim of the study on Ayurvedic preparations?
The study aimed to assess the immunopotentiating action of certain Ayurvedic preparations on the immune status of patients with cancer and rheumatoid arthritis, specifically focusing on T and B cell counts.
How were T and B cells enumerated in the study?
T and B cell counts were determined using techniques where T cells formed spontaneous rosettes with sheep erythrocytes, and B cells were identified using the EAC rosette technique with complement-coated sheep red cells.
What were the results for T and B cell counts in patients?
In cancer patients, there was a slight increase in T cell count after treatment, while B cell counts remained unchanged. In rheumatoid arthritis patients, there was no significant change in either T or B cell counts.
What Ayurvedic treatments were administered to the patients during the study?
Cancer patients received various combinations of specific Ayurvedic drugs, massages, and treatments like navarakizhi, while rheumatoid arthritis patients were prescribed oral medications and massage treatments consistent with Ayurvedic practices.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for 鈥淧reliminary studies on the immunopotentiating effects of ayurvedic prep鈥�. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Cancer:
Cancer refers to a group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells. The study focuses on cancer patients鈥� immune responses, indicating the relevance of immune system function in cancer management. Ayurvedic treatments may enhance immune resistance, suggesting alternative therapeutic approaches in oncological care.
2) Rheumatoid arthritis:
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease causing chronic inflammation in joints. The study included RA patients to assess immune status impacts. While there were no significant changes in their T and B cell counts post-treatment, understanding RA鈥檚 immune mechanisms can help in exploring Ayurvedic therapies for managing symptoms.
3) Drug:
In this context, 'drug' refers to Ayurvedic preparations used to treat patients. Specific formulations mentioned, like Varandiquathem and Maharasnadi quatham, are evaluated for their potential immunomodulatory effects. Investigating these drugs offers insights into alternative treatment options, challenging conventional approaches to cancer and autoimmune diseases.
4) Amala (Amal膩):
Amala likely refers to Amala Cancer Research Centre, the institution conducting the study. This research institute focuses on integrating traditional Ayurvedic practices with modern medical research, emphasizing the significance of Ayurveda in enhancing patient synergy and healthcare outcomes, particularly in cancer therapy and immune response evaluation.
5) Water:
Water is essential for various physiological processes, including blood circulation and cellular function. In the context of the study, it may indirectly underscore the importance of hydration in enhancing treatment efficacy and overall health. Moreover, Ayurveda emphasizes water's role in detoxification and maintaining balance within the body.
6) Ayurveda (膧yurveda, Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is a traditional Indian system of medicine focusing on holistic health and natural treatments. The study investigates the immunopotentiating actions of Ayurvedic preparations, exploring their potential roles in improving immune responses in patients with cancer and rheumatoid arthritis, thus bridging ancient wisdom with contemporary medical research.
7) Yogaraja (Yogar膩ja, Yoga-raja):
Yogaraja refers to a specific Ayurvedic formulation, utilized for its therapeutic benefits, particularly in joint pain and inflammation management. The study highlights its inclusion in treatment protocols for rheumatoid arthritis, illustrating the application of traditional remedies in enhancing immune function and patient well-being.
8) Medicine:
Medicine encompasses various practices and knowledge systems aimed at preserving health and treating diseases. In this context, both conventional and Ayurvedic medicine are explored. The study underscores the importance of integrating these approaches to provide comprehensive patient care and evaluate the effectiveness of alternative therapies.
9) Swelling:
Swelling is often a symptom of inflammation and is central to conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. The delayed hypersensitivity test used in the study assesses immune responses through swelling as an indicator of an active immune reaction. Understanding swelling helps gauge treatment outcomes in immune-related diseases.
10) Nirmala (Nirmal膩):
Nirmala is likely one of the researchers involved in the study, contributing to the exploration of Ayurvedic treatments. The names of researchers underscore the collaborative nature of scientific inquiry, emphasizing the importance of teamwork in investigating traditional medicine's impact on modern health challenges.
11) Science (Scientific):
Science involves systematic study and investigation into phenomena. This study exemplifies the application of scientific methods to evaluate Ayurvedic preparations' effectiveness in modulating immune responses. Scientific rigor is crucial for validating traditional practices, ensuring their credibility in treatment protocols for complex health issues.
12) Pinda (Pi峁囜笉膩, Pi峁囜笉a, Pimda):
Pinda refers to a form of Ayurvedic treatment involving specific herbal preparations used in therapeutic massage or compresses. In the context of the study, it highlights the multimodal Ayurvedic approach, emphasizing the importance of physical therapies alongside herbal medications in enhancing recovery and immune function.
13) Blood:
Blood plays a crucial role in transporting immune cells and nutrients in the body. The study's focus on T and B cell counts in peripheral blood is vital for assessing immune status. Understanding blood parameters helps evaluate treatment efficacy and enables the monitoring of patients鈥� health.
14) Rasa (Ras膩, Rasha):
Rasa refers to the essence or flavor of a substance in Ayurveda, and it can imply taste, energy, or therapeutic properties of herbal preparations. The term is significant in this study as it relates to the understanding of Ayurvedic formulations and their potential pharmacological effects on health.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: 鈥�Preliminary studies on the immunopotentiating effects of ayurvedic prep鈥�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Treatment schedule, Cell-mediated immunity, Ayurvedic preparation, T lymphocytes, Cancer patients, B-lymphocytes, Immune status, Rheumatoid arthritis patients, Delayed hypersensitivity test.