Immunomodulatory role of Withania somnifera root powder on experimental induced inflammation: An in vivo and in vitro study

The aqueous suspension of Withania somnifera root powder was investigated for their in vivo and in vitro immunomodulatory properties. W somnifera showed potent inhibitory activity towards the complement system, mitogen induced lymphocyte proliferation and delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction. Administration of W. somnifera root powder did not have a significant effect on humoral immune response in rats. Our results report immunosuppressive effect of W somnifera root powder, thus it could be a candidate for developing as an immunosuppressive drug for the inflammatory diseases. (c) 2006 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.