Topics to be covered
Introduction
It is One’s ability to ward off disease. Throughout life we are exposed to millions of organisms which are inhaled, swallowed or contact our skin or mucous membranes. Whether these organisms invade and cause disease is determined by the balance of the pathogenicity of the organism and the integrity of the host defence mechanism. The human body has a basic ability to resist almost all types of organisms or toxins that tend to damage the body. The immune system protects against infections and tumors. It is made up of a network of lymphoid organs, cells, humoral, factors and soluble messengers called cytokines. The functions of immune system become more clear when it fails. Abnormalities are a common cause of disease, overactivity of the immune response leading to allergic and autoimmune disorders, or underactivity resulting in immunodeficiency. Manipulation of the immune response, for example by vaccination with organisms or their proteins to protect from infection , or immunosuppression to enable organ and bone marrow transplantation is well established in clinical practice.
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Types of Immunity
Immunity is often divided in to two types termed innate and specific (acquired or adaptive).
Innate Immunity
This type immunity is a kind of resistance that is based on general functions of the body rather than some process directed at specific disease organisms. It includes such factors as following.
- Destruction of bacteria and organisms that are swallowed in to the stomach by the acid secretions of the stomach and by the digestive enzymes.
- Resistance of the skin to invasion by organisms.
- Destruction of organisms or toxins by the white blood cells and the reticuloendothelial system.
- Presence in the blood of certain chemical compounds which will attach to foreign organisms or toxins and destroy them. Some of the naturally occurring coagulants in the blood probably have this ability. However, one specific agent is interferon, formed by many of the body’s cells when they become infected with viruses. It in turn is released into circulating blood where it then attacks other viruses before they invade additional cells. Thus, the presence of interferon in the circulating blood is probably of great importance in preventing devastating effects of viral diseases.
Adaptive Immunity
In contrast to innate immunity, the body has a highly developed specialized system that allows it to develop specific immunity, called adaptive immunity, to specific invading organisms or toxins. In this system, the body is not naturally immune to the invading organism, and the body does not resist the invasion upon first exposure to the invader. However, within a few days to a few weeks after exposure, this special immune system will have developed extremely powerful resistance to the invader. Furthermore, the resistance will be highly specific for the particular invader and not for others. It is for this reason that this type of immunity is called “adaptive” immunity.
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The Immune System -- An Overview
An immune system is a collection of biological processes within an organism that protects against disease by identifying and killing pathogens and tumor cells. It detects a wide variety of agents, from viruses to parasitic worms, and needs to distinguish them from the organism's own healthy cells and tissues in order to function properly. Detection is complicated as pathogens can evolve rapidly, producing adaptations that avoid the immune system and allow the pathogens to successfully infect their hosts.
The immune system is composed of many interdependent cell types that collectively protect the body from bacterial, parasitic, fungal, viral infections and from the growth of tumor cells. Many of these cell types have specialized functions. The cells of the immune system can engulf bacteria, kill parasites or tumor cells, or kill viral-infected cells. Often, these cells depend on the T helper subset for activation signals in the form of secretions formally known as cytokines, lymphokines, or more specifically interleukins. The purpose of this article is to review the organs, cell types and interactions between cells of the immune system as a commentary on their importance and interdependence on the T helper subset. Such an understanding may help comprehend the root of immune deficiencies, and perceive potential avenues that the immune system can be modulated in the case of specific diseases.
 The Organs of the Immune System
Bone Marrow -- All the cells of the immune system are initially derived from the bone marrow. They form through a process called hematopoiesis. During hematopoiesis, bone marrow-derived stem cells differentiate into either mature cells of the immune system or into precursors of cells that migrate out of the bone marrow to continue their maturation elsewhere. The bone marrow produces B cells, natural killer cells, granulocytes and immature thymocytes, in addition to red blood cells and platelets.
Thymus -- The function of the thymus is to produce mature T cells. Immature thymocytes, also known as prothymocytes, leave the bone marrow and migrate into the thymus. Through a remarkable maturation process sometimes referred to as thymic education, T cells that are beneficial to the immune system are spared, while those T cells that might evoke a detrimental autoimmune response are eliminated. The mature T cells are then released into the bloodstream.
Spleen -- The spleen is an immunologic filter of the blood. It is made up of B cells, T cells, macrophages, dendritic cells, natural killer cells and red blood cells. In addition to capturing foreign materials (antigens) from the blood that passes through the spleen, migratory macrophages and dendritic cells bring antigens to the spleen via the bloodstream. An immune response is initiated when the macrophage or dendritic cells present the antigen to the appropriate B or T cells. This organ can be thought of as an immunological conference center. In the spleen, B cells become activated and produce large amounts of antibody. Also, old red blood cells are destroyed in the spleen.
Lymph Nodes -- The lymph nodes function as an immunologic filter for the bodily fluid known as lymph. Lymph nodes are found throughout the body. Composed mostly of T cells, B cells, dendritic cells and macrophages, the nodes drain fluid from most of our tissues. Antigens are filtered out of the lymph in the lymph node before returning the lymph to the circulation. In a similar fashion as the spleen, the macrophages and dendritic cells that capture antigens present these foreign materials to T and B cells, consequently initiating an immune response.
The Cells of the Immune System
T-Cells -- T lymphocytes are usually divided into two major subsets that are functionally and phenotypically (identifiably) different. The T helper subset, also called the CD4+ T cell, is a pertinent coordinator of immune regulation. The main function of the T helper cell is to augment or potentiate immune responses by the secretion of specialized factors that activate other white blood cells to fight off infection.
Another important type of T cell is called the T killer/suppressor subset or CD8+ T cell. These cells are important in directly killing certain tumor cells, viral-infected cells and sometimes parasites. The CD8+ T cells are also important in down-regulation of immune responses. Both types of T cells can be found throughout the body. They often depend on the secondary lymphoid organs (the lymph nodes and spleen) as sites where activation occurs, but they are also found in other tissues of the body, most conspicuously the liver, lung, blood, and intestinal and reproductive tracts.
Natural Killer Cells -- Natural killer cells, often referred to as NK cells, are similar to the killer T cell subset (CD8+ T cells). They function as effector cells that directly kill certain tumors such as melanomas, lymphomas and viral-infected cells, most notably herpes and cytomegalovirus-infected cells. NK cells, unlike the CD8+ (killer) T cells, kill their targets without a prior "conference" in the lymphoid organs. However, NK cells that have been activated by secretions from CD4+ T cells will kill their tumor or viral-infected targets more effectively.
B Cells -- The major function of B lymphocytes is the production of antibodies in response to foreign proteins of bacteria, viruses, and tumor cells. Antibodies are specialized proteins that specifically recognize and bind to one particular protein that specifically recognize and bind to one particular protein. Antibody production and binding to a foreign substance or antigen, often is critical as a means of signaling other cells to engulf, kill or remove that substance from the body.
Granulocytes or Polymorphonuclear (PMN) Leukocytes -- Another group of white blood cells is collectively referred to as granulocytes or polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs). Granulocytes are composed of three cell types identified as neutrophils, eosinophils and basophils, based on their staining characteristics with certain dyes. These cells are predominantly important in the removal of bacteria and parasites from the body. They engulf these foreign bodies and degrade them using their powerful enzymes.
Macrophages -- Macrophages are important in the regulation of immune responses. They are often referred to as scavengers or antigen-presenting cells (APC) because they pick up and ingest foreign materials and present these antigens to other cells of the immune system such as T cells and B cells. This is one of the important first steps in the initiation of an immune response. Stimulated macrophages exhibit increased levels of phagocytosis and are also secretory.
Dendritic Cells -- Another cell type, addressed only recently, is the dendritic cell. Dendritic cells, which also originate in the bone marrow, function as antigen presenting cells (APC). In fact, the dendritic cells are more efficient apcs than macrophages. These cells are usually found in the structural compartment of the lymphoid organs such as the thymus, lymph nodes and spleen. However, they are also found in the bloodstream and other tissues of the body. It is believed that they capture antigen or bring it to the lymphoid organs where an immune response is initiated. Unfortunately, one reason we know so little about dendritic cells is that they are extremely hard to isolate, which is often a prerequisite for the study of the functional qualities of specific cell types. Of particular issue here is the recent finding that dendritic cells bind high amount of HIV, and may be a reservoir of virus that is transmitted to CD4+ T cells during an activation event.
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How the Immune System Works
Our immune system is the body’s defence system, made up of a network of cells, tissues, glands and organs (eg. thymus, tonsils, appendix, small intestine, lymph nodes, spleen, liver, white cells, enzymes, antibodies, hormones, beneficial bacteria….) that work together to protect the body against, harmful germs, bacteria, viruses, infectious organisms, fungi, foreign substances (eg. many man-made toxins, food additives) and other invaders, which may gain access to it. The immune system has to work around the clock, 24 hours a day, in 100’s of different ways, doing its work, largely unnoticed. One thing, that causes us really notice our immune system is… when it fails, for some reason. We also notice it when it does something that has a side effect we can see or feel… like when you cut yourself… bacteria may enter the break in the skin and the area becomes inflamed… this inflammatory response may cause redness, heat, swelling and pain in the area of infection… all this is the work of the immune system; or a sore throat is an inflammatory response of the immune system going into battle against viruses; or, a mosquito bite that gets red and itchy, is a visible sign of the immune system at work; or daily we eat 100’s of germs and most of these die in the saliva and acid of the stomach. Occasionally germs may get through and cause a belly-ache, vomiting, diarrhoea or food poisoning. Bacteria and other intruders can do many harmful things, multiplying very rapidly, causing damage in small or larger scale; some may paralyse our nerves, while others block the ability of the cells to carry on their normal function, and may disturb one of more bodily functions. Such intruders, inert or alive, are called antigens. An antigen may be any germ or virus, undigested protein, or poisonous substance. Apart from antigens, any challenge to the body’s well-being such as trauma of any kind, or stress – physical or emotional – will stimulate the immune system, whereupon standby white cells are released into circulation. Even brief bursts of physical activity have the effect of increasing the white blood cells count. Apart from maintaining a constant state of warfare against intruders, the immune system as a normal activity will destroy cells of its own body if they become defective and no longer of any use. Red cells of the blood wear out after a period, variously estimated at from 6 to 17 weeks, and are continuously being replaced, and it is the ordinary task of the white cells to destroy the red cells as they become defective. Millions of red cells are destroyed and replaced every minute. White cells are called leucocytes (2 basic types, called phagocytes and lymphocytes), which originate in bone marrow and migrate to inhabit every tissue and fluid of the body in great numbers. Some are very mobile, able to proceed quickly in the body fluids to anywhere they may be needed, while some remain more or less stationary in the tissues. They work in different ways, but at the same time co-operating together, to destroy anything potentially dangerous. Phagocytes destroy antigens of invading germs and viruses, by consuming and digesting them. Patrolling constantly in the blood and lymph fluid are the B and T lymphocytes. Not all lymphocytes circulate in the lymph and blood. The majority
remain in reserves in the many nodes and glands of the lymphatic system, as well as the thymus, spleen, liver and other locations such as the tonsils and appendix. The capability of the immune system depends upon the general state of health and physical fitness, but regardless of this, immuno-competence may be drastically reduced in a healthy body by fatigue or excessive stress. Other depressants of the immune system are drugs, such as nicotine, alcohol, tranquillisers, pain killers, electromagnetic radiation and many other substances like fluoride, chlorine and other chemicals and toxins of our 21st century. Without the protection of the immune system, death from any number of infections would be swift and certain.
The immune system is capable of recognising cancer cells in most tissues, most of the time. They do this constantly, as malignant cells frequently occur in our body. However, if our immune system is suppressed, there is an increased risk of cancer. Then, some people are better at handling cancer immunologically, than are others. Various tumors are much harder to detect than are others, & they could fool anyone’s immune system. They may be very hard to kill as they either do not display ‘telltale’ surface antigens needed to excite our cancer killing cells, or they hide their antigens or suppress the immune system around the tumor-activiating suppressor T cells. Cancer occurs when the process of orderly selfreplication of cells is disturbed. Rogue genes are either activated spontaneously or by chemical, viruses or other extrinsic factors. If these activated genes, are not rapidly deactivated by immune functions, cell division may continue in an uncontrolled fashion, & a tumor will develop. Cancer may lie dormant for many years, or be held in check by the immune system’s response. But, when subjected to shock, excess worry, injury or grief, such people may rapidly develop cancer, when their immune system’s responses become depleted. The mass of cancer cells can expand extremely rapidly, to crush local, normal cell tissue and the cancer cells can break down walls of blood and lymphatic vessels. Cancer cells may then be transplanted (met-ast-atised) to different parts of the body, there to continue their deadly expansion. Vital organs can be damaged and the patient will die.
If cells have for one reason or another, embarked on a malignant course, then there is reason for lymphocytes to attack and destroy them. If they are, in their malignant state, even slightly different from self, then they should be killed.
Cancer… could then be at least partially blamed on an inefficient immune system. Sunshine Coast Daily Newspaper, reported 26/8/06 that statistics in Australia show that 1 in 3 people are affected by cancer. We need to recognise, that there may be many toxins, substances or influences which can contribute to the development first of pre-cancer and then to cancer. Cancer in humans has
been separately correlated by numerous researchers, with each of the following factors….oxygen deprivation of cells; constipation; high blood viscosity (sludged blood); lipotoxemia (high blood fat, cholesterol and other toxins which may include poisons from infected teeth and amalgam fillings); defective circulation; hormonal disturbances; excess body fat; high dietary fat, and protein diet; high sugar and sodium intake; high intake of alcohol, caffeine in chocolate, coffee, tea, and cola drinks; fluoridated and chlorinated water; aluminium cooking utensils; drugs (including medical drugs, sedatives, painkillers); various chemical carcinogens inhaled, eaten or absorbed through skin including nicotine, carbon monoxide; lack of sunshine; xrays and electromagnetic radiation; lack of exercise; consuming food deficient in vitamins, minerals and enzymes; stress – emotional or physical; and a high intake of processed and cooked foods. Our body is not designed for ‘acid-forming processed and pseudo foods’ and other examples of an unnatural lifestyle, we put it through on a consistent basis. Dr. Robert Young, author of ‘The pH miracle: balance your diet, retain your health’ says, “When it comes to health, alkalinity is everything. When the body is in a healthy alkaline balance, toxic micro-organisms such as germs, bacteria, viruses, yeasts, are unable to take foothold (these micro-organisms thrive in an acid environment). Alkalinity maintains our inner electromagnetic conductivity. Electromagnetic current is what actually runs our body.”
Health is so very precious. Without health, many components for a happy life are not possible. Herbs have been given to us for our health and healing and have many powerful properties to cleanse the body and strengthen the immune system. Herbs have electrical vibrations that harmonise with the electrical vibrations of our cells. Fresh herbs are alkalising to the body, and have built in antibiotic, antibacterial, antiviral, tonic, digestive benefits and blood cleansing properties.
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How the body defends itself
The human body is exposed to billions of foreign bodies or antigens each and every day. If an antigen enters the body, the immune system goes to work to destroy it.
This is done mainly by the B-cells and killer T-cells in the human body. B-cells make their own germ fighting weapons called antibodies that protrude from the B-cells like tiny Y-shaped antennae. When a B-cell comes into contact with an antigen for which it has an antibody, it locks onto it and begins dividing. Soon, millions of new B-cells have been created. When enough B-cells have been made, they stop dividing.
They become plasma cells, a type of cell that makes free antibodies. These free antibodies do not stay attached to the B-cells, but roam around freely, looking for invading antigens that they can bind onto. After an antibody attaches itself onto a target antigen, the antibody changes into a shape that is easier for a macrophage to latch onto. By releasing antibodies, therefore B-cells help macrophages devour and kill invading organisms. Some B-cells continue dividing for a long time, sometimes for years.
If a germ tries to invade the body again, these B-cells called memory cells remember it and are ready with the needed antibodies. This is how the body becomes immune to a disease it has had in the past.
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How we can improve the Body Immunity with Natural Foods
There are substances which occur in nature that improve the working of immune system in the form of green leafy foods of plant origin and they are also available commercially in the form of herbal and vitamin supplements which contain chlorophyll and other antioxidants. These so called immune system support products augment the immune mechanism naturally by cleansing the intestines and other parts of the human body.
If you want to know about the importance of these antioxidants and their role in the immune mechanisms and the need for immunity booster foods you should think about your mental and physical state now. If you feel that your energies have dried out you need a surge quickly and by natural means.
It is not regarding fatigue after a difficult days work, it pertains to loosing interest in life. Feeling bored all the time, remaining in bed indoors when you could be out enjoying the weather. If it is so it means that you have accumulated too much toxic materials in your body have slowed your systems altogether.
If you find yourself easily susceptible to common cold or frequently suffer from indigestion, this may indicate that your immune system is not working up to the mark. You are in need to optimize your immune system in a natural way. As we use a lot of processed food nowadays we take a lot of allergens along with it, which may cause some type of allergies which you may not have experienced before.
Natural food supplements can assist in augmenting the immune system by removing various toxins. These special food supplements include ingredients such as barley grass which not only aids in digestion, avoids constipation but is also rich in iron and liver enzymes. You may not like whole barley grass as it is difficult to chew so for your comfort it is also available in palatable powdered form.
*Flax seed is another marvelous supplement which strengthens the blood composition and also provides good protective fatty acids. (Most of us are wary of the word fat, not knowing that a few fats are protective in nature). For your convenience Flax seed is available in the form of food supplements and flax seed oil which tastier than cod liver oil. Grounded flax seeds can be incorporated while baking or showered over yogurt or cereal.
*Kelp is a sea plant which contains enormous amounts of antioxidants. This is marketed in the form of green powder mixed with algae. Commonly known as the Green super food it strengthens your immune system and revitalizes your energies with its natural constituents and anti oxidizing agents.
Antioxidants and their Role in Strengthening Immunity.
Antioxidants can play a role to boost our immune system and rejuvenate our energies naturally.
These are a natural substance which saves the cell walls from damage and thus prevent from premature aging and cell death. Cell is the unit structure of our immune system so it protects against susceptibility to infections and promotes health.
Foods from plant origin form an essential component of our diet. These can play a vital role to optimize immune system by natural means but the circumstances under which they are cultivated can influence their performance.
*Substandard soil and less than perfect water conditions can affect the vivacity and energy contained in them. To our luck natural supplements are now in the market to strengthen our immune systems in addition to fresh foods.
*The maximum amount of chlorophyll is found in those plants which are more dark and green. The powdered or liquid form commercially prepared from them is popularly known as Green Super Food or Green Algae.
The function of chlorophyll in the human body is to make the walls stronger at the cellular level and supply antioxidants which purify the intestines and other parts of the body of toxins and harmful substances.
The green pigment in plants chlorophyll performs just as the body’s original enzymes which are tuned to work for good health and retardation of ageing process.
We conclude that detoxification of the intestines is the first step towards good health and Chlorophyll is the best advocated food supplement from natural sources for the job.
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Immune System and Alternative Medicine
The immune system is not responsive to drugs for healing. Antibiotics used to fight infections actually depress the immune system when used long-term. But natural nutritive forces, like healing foods and herbal medicines can and do support the immune system. By rebuilding immunity, health is naturally restored and disease disappears.
According to Dr. Lawrence Wilson - "To strengthen the immune system, one must address the needs of the whole body. A strong immune system is essential for health. It is a very complex system of the body, involving the skin, intestines, nasal mucosa, blood, lymph and many other organs and tissues. Factors that impair the immune system include nutrient deficiencies, contaminated air, water and food, unhealthful lifestyles and too much exposure to harmful microbes. Other factors that weaken the immune system are negative attitudes and emotions and the presence of toxic metals, toxic chemicals and biological toxins in the body. Others are sluggish metabolism, lack of rest and sleep, excessive stress or too much exercise. As these causative factors are removed or corrected, the immune system improves."
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Natural Immune Boosters
There are many factors which can cause the immune system to deteriorate. Some of them include poor diet, not enough sleep, not enough exercise, too much stress and many other factors. Thankfully it is possible to increase the strength of your immune system and there are certain herbs mentioned below which can have a tremendous effect. It is absolutely vital that you have a good strong immune system. By having this your body can fight off diseases, infections and all manner of ills. It is possible to boost your immune system and build it up into your best defense mechanism.
The immune system recognizes viruses, bacteria, fungi, parasites and foreign bodies and signals the brain to activate immune processes. Supporting your immune system may help with everything from frequent colds to arthritis to cancer. Begin the support of your system with a good, high quality multiple vitamin and mineral supplement and a strong antioxidant formula. Remember your vitamin C.
Herbs Helpful in Boosting Immune System
Many herbs are strong antioxidants that can fight and kill free radicals (created in the body by some foods, cooking oils, preservatives, artificial colours, flavours and additives, environmental toxins and also metabolic body functions). Progress in antioxidant technology has led researchers to the belief that many signs of ageing result from the damage caused by free radicals. Fresh herbs and many edible plants are a rich source of antioxidants, or aid antioxidant actions – as… vitamin A (beta-carotene), C, E, & minerals zinc, selenium, vanadium, & several herbs have germanium. Herbs also contain many other antioxidant properties (eg. polyphenols, flavanols, benzliso thio-cynate, curcumin, coenzyme Q10) which can help to build strong defences against cardio-vascular diseases such as stroke and heart attacks, help rejuvenate, cells and increase protection from cancer.
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The following herbs… are valuable to grow and use regularly, for their cleansing and antioxidant action, tonic properties and to strengthen the immune system… herb robert, sheep sorrel, watercress, gotu kola, fenugreek, brahmi, sentitive plant, purslane, leaf ginseng, Ind. ginseng, sage, chia, king of bitters, nettle, garlic, licorice, St. John’s wort, echinacea, asparagus, turmeric, oregano, yerba mate, horseradish, St. Marys thistle, mullein, menthol, goji, aloe (particularly candelabra which has a high ‘Aloctin A’ content found to stimulate biological functions and strengthen the immune system); a valuable anti-viral herb is licorice; use culinary herbs for flavouring regularly to aid the digestion; and herbs that have antibiotic - probiotic action which helps to boost the immune system: nasturtiums, ginger, toothache plant and also kefir; lots of chlorophyll-rich greens eg. rocket, parsley, comfrey, chicory, dandelion, Lebanese cress) as greens are blood cleansers and cell oxygenators…the darker green the leaves, the higher the number of cancer-fighting nutrients they contain. Potassium rich plants like salad mallow, sweet leaf bush, sweet fruit root (as potassium foods help to alkalise the body). Sprouts are alkalising to the body and also benefit the immune system by providing lots of living enzymes. Lack of enzymes in the body can contribute to poor digestion, pain, disease, poor immune response and premature ageing. Fenugreek seed grown as sprouts are so valuable, as they help to cleanse the lymphatic system. Note too: the body needs 2-21/2 litres of water daily, for the body to work well.
Echinacea
Echinacea increases the levels of a chemical called properdin in the body which activates part of the immune system responsible for increasing the defence mechanisms against bacteria and viruses.
Goldenseal
It has proven very effective against parasites and in stimulating the immune system and for mouth ulcers. It reportedly increases the blood supply to various digestive parts.
Astragalus
This Chinese herb is often regarded as Asia's answer to America's echinacea. Studies have shown it to have certain potent anti-viral properties and helps boost white blood cell fighting properties.
Astragalus (huang qi) is one of the most frequently used Chinese herbs and has historically been used to tonify wei qi. It fortifies the lungs, strengthens the wei qi and indirectly protects against external pathogenic factors.
In terms of Western medicine, modern research has confirmed repeatedly that astragalus increases both specific and non-specific immunity.1,2,3 In a clinical trial of 115 leucopenic patients, astragalus was found to be associated with an "obvious rise of the white blood cell (WBC) count" with a dose-dependent relationship.4 In addition, astragalus works well with concurrent drug therapy in enhancing the overall effectiveness of the treatment. It also potentiates the anti-tumor effect of chemotherapy drugs5 while reversing drug-induced immune suppression.6 Lastly, astragalus demonstrates anti-cancer activity by increasing the content of camp and inhibiting the growth of tumor cells.7
Ganoderma (ling zhi)
It has been traditionally used to tonify blood and vital energy. It is thus essential in rebuilding a patient's constitution.
Ganoderma increases the number of white blood cells and inhibits the growth of various viruses and bacteria associated with the flu. It has been demonstrated to enhance the immune system in various clinical studies. The specific effects of ganoderma include an increase in monocytes, macrophages and T-lymphocytes.8-11 There is also an increased production of cytokine, interleukin, tumor necrosis factor and interferon. Furthermore, ganoderma has a broad spectrum of antibacterial activities, inhibiting the growth of pneumocci, streptocci (type A), staphylococci, e. coli, b. dysentarie and pseudomonas, among others.7
Cordyceps (dong chong xia cao)
It has traditionally been used in chronic debilitated patients. It is an excellent herb to tonify the kidney yin and yang and improve overall bodily constitution. Cordyceps is another herb which has marked immunomodulatory functions. It enhances overall immunity by increasing lymphocytes and natural killer cells and the production of interleukin, interferon and tumor necrosis factor.12-16 Cordyceps was also found to significantly inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells;17 in some instances, the growth inhibition rate of the cancer cells reached between 78-83%.18
Keep in mind that while these herbs are effective individually, they should be prescribed in the content of an herbal formula to enhance synergistic action and minimize possible side-effects.
Fish oils and the immune system
OXFORD, UNITED KINGDOM. Animal studies have shown that an increase in fat intake can decrease the number of natural killer (NK) cells found in the blood and spleen. NK cells are an integral part of the natural immune response to virus infections and certain types of cancer. Researchers at Oxford University now report that fish oil significantly decreases NK cell activity in healthy human subjects.
Their clinical trial involved 48 men and women aged 55 to 75 years. The participants were randomized to receive one of six supplements for 12 weeks. The supplements were all provided in the form of capsules, three of which were to be taken with each meal. The nine capsules (daily intake) contained either a total of 2 g alpha-linolenic acid, 770 mg gamma-linolenic acid (from evening primrose oil), 680 mg arachidonic acid, 720 mg docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), 720 mg eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)+ 280 mg DHA (fish oil) or a placebo (an 80:20 mix of palm and sunflower oils). All the participants had blood samples taken four weeks before start of supplementation, immediately before start of supplementation, and then every four weeks during the trial as well as after a four-week washout period. The researchers found no changes in killer cell activity except in the group taking fish oil. Here they observed an average decline of 20 per cent after 8 weeks and 48 per cent after 12 weeks. The decline was completely reversed after the washout period. The fact that no decline was observed with pure DHA strongly suggests that EPA was responsible. The researchers conclude that an excessive EPA intake could have adverse effects for people at risk of viral infections and some cancers. Editor's Note: The British researchers' speculation about fish oils perhaps affecting the effectiveness of NK cells in killing cancer cells is at odds with the results of many other studies. There are at least a dozen studies that show a clear protective effect of fish or fish oil against breast, colon, and prostate cancer. NOTE: This study was partly funded by Unilever.
[54 references] Thies, Frank, et al. Dietary supplementation with eicosapentaenoic acid, but not with other long-chain n-3 or n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids, decreases natural killer cell activity in healthy subjects aged >55 years. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Vol. 73, March 2001, pp. 539-48
References
- Chu DT, et al. Immunotherapy with Chinese medicinal herbs. I. Immune restoration of local xenogenetic graft-versus-host reaction in cancer patients by fractionated astragalus membranaceus in vitro. Journal of Clinical & Laboratory Immunology Mar 1988;25(3):119-23.
- Sun Y, et al. Immune restoration and/or augmentation of local graft versus host reaction by traditional Chinese medicinal herbs. Cancer July 1, 1983;52(1):70-3.
- Sun Y, et al. Preliminary observations on the effects of the Chinese medicinal herbs astragalus membranaceus and ganoderma lucidum on lymphocyte blastogenic responses. Journal of Biological Response Modifiers 1983;2(3):227-37.
- Weng XS. Chung Juo Chung Hsia I Chieh Ho Tsa Chih August 1995.
- Chu DT, et al. Fractionated extract of astragalus membranaceus, a Chinese medicinal herb, potentiates LAK cell cytotoxicity generated by a low dose of recombinant interleukin-2. Journal of Clinical & Laboratory Immunology Aug 1988;26(4):183-7.
- Chu DT, et al. Immunotherapy with Chinese medicinal herbs. II. Reversal of cyclophosphamide-induced immune suppression by administration of fractionated astragalus membranaceus in vivo. Journal of Clinical & Laboratory Immunology Mar 1988;25(3):125-9.
- Yeung HC. Handbook of Chinese Herbs. Institute of Chinese Medicine, 1996.
- Wang SY, et al. The anti-tumor effect of ganoderma lucidum is mediated by cytokines released from activated macrophages and T-lymphocytes. International Journal of Cancer Mar 17, 1997;70(6):699-705.
- Van der Hem LG, et al. Ling zhi-8: studies of a new immunomodulating agent. Transplantation Sep 15, 1995;60(5):438-43.
- Haak-Frendscho M, et al. Ling zhi-8: a novel T-cell mitogen induces cytokine production and up-regulation of ICAM-1 expression. Cellular Immunology Aug 1993;150(1):101-13.
- Tanaka S, et al. Complete amino acid sequence of a novel immunomodulatory protein, ling zhi-9. An immuno-modulator from a fungus, ganoderma lucidum, having similar effect to immunoglobulin variable regions. Journal of Biological Chemistry Oct 5, 1989;264(28):16372-7.
- Kuo YC, et al. Cordyceps sinensis as an immunomodulatory agent. American Journal of Chinese Medicine 1996;24(2):111-25.
- Guan YJ, et al. Effect of cordyceps sinensis on T-lymphocyte subsets in chronic renal failure. Chung-Kuo Chung His I Chieh Ho Tsa Chih Jun 1992;12(6):323,338-9.
- Liu C, et al. Effects of cordyceps sinensis (CS) on in vitro natural killer cells. Chung-Kuo Chung His I Chieh Ho Tsa Chih May 1992;12(5):259,267-9.
- Xu RH, et al. Effects of cordyceps sinensis on natural killer activity and colony formation of B16 melanoma. Chinese Medical Journal Feb 1992;105(2):97-101.
- Liu P, et al. Influence of cordyceps sinensis (berk. sacc.) and rat serum containing same medicine on IL-1, IFN and TNF produced by rat Kupffer's cells. Chung Kuo Chung Yao Tsa Chih Jun 1996;21(6):367-9,384.
- Kuo YC, et al. Growth inhibitors against tumor cells in cordyceps sinensis other than cordycepin and polysaccharides. Cancer Investigation 1994;12(6):611-5.Chen YJ, et al. Effect of cordyceps sinensis on the proliferation and differentiation of human leukemic U-937 cells. Life Sciences 1997;60(25):2349-59.
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