Effectiveness Of Sungkai Leaf Extract On Immune System Enhancement: In Vitro And In Vivo Experimental Studies

Abstract

Sungkai leaves (Peronema canescens Jack.) have been known in traditional Indonesian medicine and are believed to have immunostimulant activity. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of ethanol extract of sungkai leaves on the immune system through in vitro studies on lymphocyte cell cultures and in vivo using a mouse experiment animal model (Mus musculus). In vitro tests were performed to assess lymphocyte proliferation and cytokine production (IL-2, IFN-γ), while in vivo tests were performed to measure leukocyte count, macrophage phagocytosis activity, and serum antibody levels. The results showed a significant increase in cellular and humoral immune activity after the administration of sungkai leaf extract compared to the control group. This finding confirms the potential of sungkai leaves as a natural immunostimulant candidate that can be developed into modern herbal products.