2018, Vol. 6, Issue 1, Part B

author(s)
Manal Al Ruwad

abstract
In this study immunomodulatory and antitumor activity of five herbal drinks consumed in Jordan were evaluated. The antiproliferative activity was determined using MTT assay. The degree of apoptosis induction was detected by TUNEL colorimetric assay. ELISA was used to measure VEGF expression in tumor cells and levels of cytokines secreted by splenocytes. The effect of the extracts on splenocytes proliferation was measured using MTT assay. Macrophage function was evaluated using nitro blue tetrazolium assay. The growth of breast cancer cell lines was inhibited by herbal drinks in dose dependent manner. Ginger and lemon verbena were the most potent, they target cancer cells through the induction of apoptosis and suppression of breast cancer angiogenesis. An increase in Th1 cytokines level and decrease inTh2 cytokine level were evident after lymphocytes stimulation by herbal drinks. The consumption of different herbal drinks provides variable health benefits. Ginger and lemon verbena herbal drinks exhibit anticancer activities. Jordanian zhourat is a potent stimulator of innate and acquired immunity.