Abstract

ASSESSMENT OF IMMUNOMODULATORY ACTIVITY OF DIFFERENT CITRUS FRUIT JUICES IN ANIMAL MODEL

Punam V. Wankhade*, Dr. K.R. Biyani, Dr. S.C. Kale, Dr. H.A. Sawarkar, Dr. P.N. Folane

ABSTRACT

The present study aimed to evaluate the immunomodulatory activity of fresh citrus fruit juices, specifically Citrus sinensis (orange) and Citrus limon (lemon), using a cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppression model in Wistar rats. Animals were divided into five groups including normal control, disease control, standard (levamisole), and two test groups receiving orange and lemon juice (5 mL/kg, orally). Immunological parameters such as total white blood cell (WBC) count, lymphocyte percentage, hemoglobin levels, and body weight were assessed. Results showed that both citrus juices significantly improved immune parameters compared to disease control, with orange juice exhibiting slightly higher activity. The study suggests that citrus fruit juices possess significant immunomodulatory potential due to their phytochemical constituents.

Keywords: Immunomodulation, Citrus sinensis, Citrus limon, Cyclophosphamide, Wistar rats, Natural immunostimulant.