고려엉겅퀴 묵나물 추출물의 면역활성 증진 효과

Abstract

Immune stimulation has emerged as a novel strategy for improving the immune system of the body. Research attention has been focused on identification of natural and dietary substances that can potentially improve immune activity, with fewer side effects than those of chemical substances. Cirsium setidens Nakai, also called ‘gondre,’ is a perennial plant belonging to the Asteraceae family and grows only in Korea. It has alternate leaves and leafy edges, and its tip is pointed. The leaf is somewhat broader, and the flower is purple from July to October. It is used in the treatment of inflammation, edema, and hypertension. Various physiological activities of raw C. setidens Nakai aerial part extracts have been reported recently. Here, we evaluated the antioxidant activity and immune enhancement efficacy of extracts prepared from blanched and dried C. setidens Nakai in addition to their potential use in not only regular but also functional health food. The total phenolic compound content was five times higher in the extract prepared by freeze drying than in that prepared by blanching. However, production of nitric oxide and secretion of immunostimulating cytokines such as IL-6 and TNF-α were relatively higher in the extract prepared by blanching than in that prepared by drying. Overall, an immunostimulating effect was observed for the C. setidens Nakai aerial part extract prepared by blanching, confirming its potential as a functional health food ingredient.