Abstract
A hemopoietic formula (HF) in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) usually consists of more than six single herbs. We seek to look into changes of immune-competent cells by two commonly utilized HF, including Shi-Quan-Da-Bu-Tang (SDT) and Bu-Zong-Ye-Qi-Tang (BYT). However, the effects of both formulae on levels of leukocyte subsets are not yet defied. After administration of immno-suppressant to animals, the effects by HFs on the augmentation for subsets of leukocytes, CD positive cell counts of lymphocytes, and the cytokine-producing cells are measured. Our results show that SDT augments the level of lymphocytes, while BYT increases the level of granulocytes. In our clinical study with 15 healthy volunteers, positive cells for CD2, CD11b, CD14, IL-4, IL-1β and IFN-γ in peripheral blood are increased significantly 15 days after the ingestion of HFs. In rodents, compromised host as well as normal animal is administered with cancer chemotherapeutic agent (Mytomycin-C). Our observations show that SDT regulates phagocyte activities of the immune system, introducing it against intracellular parasite, and that BYT augments intercellular pathogen through humoral immunity. We discuss the significance and mechanism of HFs on the level of leukocyte subsets in number and function that are considered to be potential indicators for the evaluation of TCM modalities. We also propose an idea that TCM exhibits tonic effects via enhancing the ability to fight against infection and bacteria, as well as turning the multi-drug resistant bacteria to the sensitive ones. Together with these evidences, we suggest an ideal remedy for the compromised to fight host against pathogens. Moreover, we try to modify these hemopoietic formulae to more digestive forms. This modification brings to the significant lifted up for antibody producing cells and anti-oxidative activity for phagocytic cells.
Highlights
In recent years, complementary and alternative medicines (CAM) have achieved more and more attentions since they are able to treat many chronic illnesses, such as fatigue syndrome that plagues the industrialized world
Analysis that mixed both groups together showed no significant differences in total leukocyte number except that for hemopoietic formula (HF); in G-type group, total number of leukocytes was down regulated by SQT
For qualitative and quantitative evaluation, we examined the cytokine expression levels, and directly measured the expression levels of cytokine-containing cells in peripheral blood, eliminating possible artificial factors that could arise from culturing in test tubes or changes in net value by catalyzation
Summary
Complementary and alternative medicines (CAM) have achieved more and more attentions since they are able to treat many chronic illnesses, such as fatigue syndrome that plagues the industrialized world. The present team has reported that typical styles of CAM, i.e. TCM regulate functions of leukocytes in human immune system [1] [2]. While the immune system is working against the local infection of pathogens, cytokine and immuno-competent cells react throughout the body in close connection to the brain, the endocrine and immune system [3]. We hypothesize that HF may influence immuno-competent cells qualitatively and quantitatively by targeting lymphocytes based on the constitution dependent manner. We seek to focus on the identity of each HF formula, comparing to another herbal medicine. The influence of HF on leukocyte and/or lymphocyte subpopulations in human peripheral blood is discussed. Some trials have been made for herbal formulae by Lactobacillus and by Yeast Fungus in order to use-up original materials other than traditional hot-water extraction [4]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
