Evidence-Based Immunotherapeutic Effects of Herbal Compounds on Humoral Immunity: Ancient and New Approaches

Chin J Integr Med. 2021 Apr;27(4):313-320. doi: 10.1007/s11655-021-3332-7. Epub 2021 Mar 24.

Abstract

The human immune system represents a dynamic multiscale system with high complexity in biology. Humoral immunity, as the main branch of adaptive immunity, is characterized by differentiated stages of the B lymphocytes, producing the final product of antibodies that has a diversity of the tuning mechanisms within genetic and epigenetic levels in confrontation with environmental exposures. Disorders because of disturbed humoral immunity are linked with dysregulation of feedback-regulated signaling and the dynamic of immune components that determine the overall response. Food products, mainly herbal components have a significant role in tailoring the immune system micro-ecosystem which can diversify the adaptive nature of humoral immunity. Herein, we review the current evidence-based approaches for the impact of medicinal herbs on humoral immunity signaling and antibody production with a focus on immunotherapeutic applications.

Keywords: B cells; adaptive immunity; antibody; immunotherapy; medicinal herb.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adaptive Immunity
  • B-Lymphocytes
  • Ecosystem
  • Humans
  • Immunity, Humoral*
  • Immunotherapy*