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Differences in immunomodulating effects between wild and cultured Panax ginseng
1Laboratory of Utilization of Biological Resources, Kobe University, Japan.
Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications
|May 16, 1994
Summary
Wild Panax ginseng extracts significantly boost lymphocyte activity and increase T cell populations in mice. Cultured Panax ginseng showed no such immunological effects, highlighting the superior immune-enhancing properties of wild varieties.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
- Botany
Background:
- Panax ginseng is widely recognized for its medicinal properties.
- Understanding the differential effects of wild versus cultured ginseng on the immune system is crucial for its therapeutic application.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate and compare the immunological activity of wild and cultured Panax ginseng extracts.
- To determine the specific effects on lymphocyte proliferation and T cell populations.
Main Methods:
- Extraction of hot water soluble fractions from both wild and cultured Panax ginseng.
- In vitro assessment of mitogenic activity on lymphocytes.
- In vivo oral administration of wild ginseng extract to mice.
- Flow cytometry analysis to determine percentages of T cell subsets (Thy 1.2+, L3T4+, Lyt2+).
Main Results:
- Wild Panax ginseng extract demonstrated significant mitogenic activity on lymphocytes, comparable to Concanavalin A.
- Cultured Panax ginseng extract exhibited no significant mitogenic activity.
- Oral administration of wild ginseng extract led to significant increases in pan T cells (31.2%), helper T cells (17.9%), and cytotoxic T cells (30.1%) in mice.
Conclusions:
- Wild Panax ginseng possesses potent immunomodulatory properties, specifically enhancing lymphocyte proliferation and T cell populations.
- Cultured Panax ginseng lacks these observed immunological effects.
- The findings suggest that wild Panax ginseng is a more effective agent for boosting cellular immunity.