The Journal of Phytopharmacology 2025; 14(4):287-290 DOI:10.31254/phyto.2025.14409

Research Article

Exploring the immunomodulatory potential of Clitoria ternatea using chicken lymphocytes

Anupsingh Vijaysingh Thakur¹ , Sonu Ambwani¹ , Sudhir Kumar² , Tanuj Kumar Ambwani²

Anupsingh Vijaysingh Thakur,Sonu Ambwani,Sudhir Kumar,Tanuj Kumar Ambwani

1. Department of Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering, College of Basic Sciences and Humanities, G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar- 263145, Uttarakhand, India
2. Department of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar 263145, Uttarakhand, India

*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.

Received: 18th June, 2025 / Accepted: 15th August, 2025 / Published : 30th September, 2025

Abstract

Background: The growing interest in phytogenic immunomodulators is driven by the need for natural alternatives to synthetic drugs, particularly in animal health. However, many herbal products face skepticism due to limited scientific validation. Clitoria ternatea L., commonly known as butterfly pea, is a traditional medicinal plant rich in diverse phytochemicals such as flavonoids, anthocyanins, alkaloids, and tannins. These compounds are known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective activities. Traditionally, various parts of the plant- roots, leaves, flowers, and seeds, have been used to treat ailments like fever, wounds, memory disorders, and microbial infections. Objective: The present study was conducted to evaluate the immunostimulatory effects of a 50% hydro-methanolic leaf extract of Clitoria ternatea (CTE) on chicken lymphocytes in vitro, and to validate its potential as a natural immunomodulator for poultry health management. Materials and Methods: Lymphocytes were isolated from healthy broiler chickens under aseptic conditions and cultured in vitro. The cytotoxicity of various concentrations of the CTE was assessed using the MTT assay to determine the maximum non-cytotoxic dose (MNCD). Subsequently, the lymphocyte proliferation assay (LPA) was performed to evaluate immunostimulatory activity. Results: The MNCD of CTE was found to be 0.3 mg/mL, and this concentration was used for further immunological testing in the presence of mitogenic stimulation. CTE at 0.3 mg/mL significantly enhanced lymphocyte proliferation compared to untreated control groups, indicating strong immunostimulatory activity. The results confirm the bioactivity of the extract in modulating immune cell function in vitro. Conclusion: The study demonstrates that Clitoria ternatea leaf extract possesses promising immunopotentiating effects on chicken lymphocytes. These findings support its potential use as a natural immune booster in poultry, and contribute to the scientific validation of Clitoria ternatea as a traditional medicinal herb with valuable veterinary immunopharmacological applications.