Augmentation of non-specific immunity in mice by gold preparations used in traditional systems of medicine.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES: Gold preparations are highly valued in Indian systems of medicine and extensively used for tonic and rejuvenating properties. This study was aimed to evaluate the effects of Ayurvedic gold preparation Swarna Bhasma (SB) and Unani preparation Kushta Tila Kalan (KTK) on non-specific immunity in mice. A gold-containing drug auranofin (AN) used in modern medicine was studied for comparison. METHODS: Male mice were administered with the incremental doses of these drugs orally for 10 days. Parameters of study included body weight, organ weight, peritoneal exudate cell (PEC) counts and phagocytic activity of PEC. RESULTS: Both test drugs (KTK and SB) significantly (P < 0.001) increased counts of peritoneal macrophages and stimulated phagocytic index of macrophages. AN elicited a suppressive action on these parameters. INTERPRETATION & CONCLUSION: Traditional preparations of gold exhibited immunostimulant activity on macrophage functions in contrast to immunosuppressive effects of AN. This is an interesting observation and gives a rational basis to the claims of efficacy and safety of gold when used in calcined forms.