Immunomodulatory effects of herbal extract mixture of Boswellia serrata, Commiphora myrrha, and propolis in a forced swimming-induced mouse model of immune dysfunction

Abstract

Excessive exercise can result in a detrimental condition known as overtraining syndrome (OTS), which is characterized by impaired immune function. In this study, we aimed to explore the immunomodulatory properties of YSK-A, a composite herbal substance comprising equal proportions of Boswellia serrata, Commiphora myrrha, and propolis, using a forced swimming (FS)-induced immunocompromised mouse model. Ex vivo experiments showed that YSK-A significantly increased the activity of NK cells against YAC-1 tumor cells compared with its individual components. HPLC analysis for quality control identified KBA, AKBA, furanoeudesma 1,3-diene, cinnamic acid, and galangin as the five primary components of YSK-A. Following sacrifice, improved profiles of molecules related to OTS, immune organ indices, white blood cell proportions in blood, and serum immunoglobulin levels were observed. Furthermore, YSK-A was found to enhance immunocyte function, including cytotoxic effect of splenic NK cells, and proliferation of lymphocytes. Our study suggests that YSK-A exhibits immunomodulatory effects against immune dysfunction.