Herbal immuno-stimulants

Abstract: Since most colds and infections are caused by a temporary weakening of the immune defence system the prophylactic or therapeutic use of drugs which enhance the unspecific immune system, the so-called immunostimulants, can be of beneficial effect. For this indication on the drug market almost only allopathic and homoeopathic plant extract preparations exist. The efficacy of many of these preparations has been assessed by immunological in vitro- and in vivo-experiments. The hitherto existing controlled studies on humans have also shown positive results. The most noteworthy features are: diminution of recurrent infections, reduction of the duration of a disease and a significant reduction of the seriousness of most of the symptoms associated with the infections of respiratory organs. The mode of application of these immunostimulants is based primarily on the practical experience of physicians. Adverse effects and possible health risks of these drug preparations used according to regulations have not been reported so far. The development of adequate methods of standardisation and fingerprint analysis of the various extract preparations is underway.

Keyword(s): Prevention

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