IMMUNOMODULATORY ACTIVITY OF TINOSPORA CORDIFOLIA STEM EXTRACT IN CYCLOPHOSPHAMIDE-IMMUNOSUPPRESSED MICE

Abstract

Tinospora cordifolia (guduchi) stem preparations are used in Ayurvedic practice to support resistance to infection, and experimental work in mice has tried to confirm this using cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppression as the challenge. This narrative review, which reports no new data, summarises the phytochemistry of the stem, the biology of the cyclophosphamide model, and the published effects of stem extracts on leucocyte counts, antibody formation, delayed-type hypersensitivity, phagocytosis and cytokine balance. Most studies point towards restoration of suppressed immune readouts, with macrophage activation prominent. The evidence is held back by variable extract standardisation, single dose levels, weak blinding and few comparisons with established agents. Reporting standards and chemical profiling need to improve before the plant can be positioned beyond traditional use.