Evaluation of the effects of Zataria multiflora, Geranium pelargonium, Myrth and Lemon essences on immune system function in experimental animals

The effects of some Iranian herbal essences have been evaluated on the function of immunesystem using experimental animals. Rabbits received Zataria multiflora, Geraniumpelargonium, Myrth, Lemon essences and normal saline (control group), 6 times with 6 days ofinterval. Five days after the last injection of the essences, Candida albicans antigens wereinjected into all the animals. Phagocytosis and killing assays and lymphocyte transformationtest (LTT) were carried out on blood samples. The cellular immunity was significantlystimulated against C. albicans antigens and Con-canavalin A (Con-A) mitogen in animals thatinjected subcutaneously with Z. multiflora and G. pelargonium in comparison with the controlgroup, whereas Myrth essence had no considerable effect and Lemon essence suppressed thecellular responses. Zataria multiflora, Myrth and Lemon essences stimulated innate immunitywhen injected subcutaneously, whereas G. pelargonium essence had no significant effect.Humoral responses to Candida antigens were significantly decreased in animals injected withLemon essence as compared to other essences (p< 0.05).

Keywords:

Candida albicans , zataria , Geranium , immunostimulation , innate immunity