Polysaccharide enriched immunomodulatory fractions from Tinospora cordifolia (Willd) miers ax hook. F. & Thoms†.

ABSTRACT

Tinospora cordifolia is used in Ayurveda as "Rasayanas" to improve the immune system and the body resistance against infections. Polysaccharides are the main constituents which are considered to be responsible for immune enhancement. In this study, immunomodulatory activity of three polysaccharide enriched fractions was evaluated using the polymorphonuclear leukocyte function test. Sugar composition was determined by GC-MS analysis of the derivatised fractions. The active polysaccharide fractions mainly constitute glucose, fructose and arabinose as monomer units.