Lymphocyte proliferation stimulated by activated human macrophages treated with Canova

Homeopathy. 2009 Jan;98(1):45-8. doi: 10.1016/j.homp.2008.11.011.

Abstract

Introduction: Canova (CA) is a homeopathic medication with immunomodulatory properties, recommended for patients with a depressed immune system. CA has been reported to increase in leukocyte numbers, cellular differentiation and reduction in tumor size.

Aim and method: Since CA may stimulate lymphocyte differentiation, proliferation, and/or survival, the aim of the present study was to compare the mitotic index (MI) of phytohemagglutinin-stimulated human lymphocytes cultured in a medium supplemented with human macrophages activated by CA, with lymphocytes cultured in a medium without CA-treated macrophages.

Results: In this study, the MI of lymphocyte cultured received the medium containing CA-stimulated macrophages showed a higher proliferation index (p<0.01) than the lymphocytes cultured in a medium without CA-treated macrophages. Our results suggest that CA treatment, in addition to activating macrophages, indirectly induces lymphocyte proliferation and has potential as a new adjuvant therapeutic approach.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Cells, Cultured
  • Crotalid Venoms*
  • Female
  • Formularies, Homeopathic as Topic*
  • Humans
  • Lymphocyte Activation*
  • Macrophage Activation*
  • Macrophages / physiology*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Plant Extracts*

Substances

  • Canova medication
  • Crotalid Venoms
  • Plant Extracts