Exploring effects of a natural combination medicine on exercise-induced inflammatory immune response: A double-blind...

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Exercise Physiology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Traumeel (Tr14) is a natural combination drug known to modulate inflammation at the cytokine level.
• The impact of Tr14 on the immune response following strenuous exercise requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the potential effects of Traumeel (Tr14) on the exercise-induced immune response in healthy untrained males.

Main Methods:

• A double-blind, randomized, controlled trial was conducted.
• Subjects received either Tr14 or placebo for 24 hours post-exercise.
• Immune markers including cytokines, white blood cell count, lymphocyte activation, and muscle damage indicators were assessed.

Main Results:

• The Tr14 group exhibited reduced exercise-induced leukocytosis and neutrocytosis.
• Tr14 administration led to higher antigen-stimulated IL-1β and IL-1α levels.
• A lower score for antigen-stimulated GM-CSF and trends for IL-2 and IL-4 were observed, alongside higher IL-6.

Conclusions:

• Traumeel (Tr14) may differentially affect the exercise-induced immune response.
• It appears to decrease the innate immune system's inflammatory response.
• Tr14 may also augment the pro-inflammatory cytokine response post-exercise.