Evaluation of Butea monosperma as an immunomodulatory agent

The leaves of Butea monosperma (Lamk) Taub (Fabaceae) have been traditionally used as tonic. Ethanolic extract of Butea monosperma contains flavonoids, glucosides, butin, butrin, isobutrin, palastrin. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the immunomodulatory activity of Butea monosperma leaves. Ethanolic extract of Butea monosperma leaves was administered at dose of 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg to healthy mice. The immunomodulatory activity was carried out by testing non-specific immune responses using carbon clearance test (CCT), Neutrophil adhesion test (NAT) and cecal ligation and Puncture induced abdominal sepsis models. Butea monosperma ethanolic extract (BMEE) caused increase in the Phagocytic index in Carbon clearance test as well as increased neutrophil index in NAT. Increased percentage survival of animals was observed in Cecal ligation and Puncture induced abdominal sepsis model. The results of the present study indicate that the BMEE stimulates the immune system non-specifically.