Changes in immunological characteristics of white blood cells after administration of standardized mistletoe extract

In Vivo. 2001 Nov-Dec;15(6):447-57.

Abstract

After administering standardized mistletoe extract, Viscum album L, (Iscador injections of 0.1 mg twice and 1.0 mg in defined intervals) the functional characteristics of microcirculation and immunological behavior of the white blood cells in different target tissues (derma, intestine) were investigated in healthy volunteers by vital microscopic investigation over 13 days of observation. The investigations showed a temporarily improved function of the microcirculation and an increased adhesion and transmigration of white blood cells in the target tissue areas. This observation was evaluated as a biologically relevant immunomodulation. Further investigations under pathophysiological conditions with regard to complementary administration of the test substance (e.g. to cancer patients) appear promising.

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents, Phytogenic / administration & dosage
  • Antineoplastic Agents, Phytogenic / pharmacology*
  • Blood Pressure / drug effects
  • Heart Rate / drug effects
  • Humans
  • Interleukin-1 / metabolism
  • Leukocytes / drug effects*
  • Leukocytes / immunology
  • Male
  • Microcirculation / drug effects
  • Plant Extracts / administration & dosage
  • Plant Extracts / pharmacology*
  • Plant Proteins*
  • Viscum album*

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents, Phytogenic
  • Interleukin-1
  • Plant Extracts
  • Plant Proteins
  • viscum album peptide