The first and the most vital biotic response of the immune system against
stress, oxidation, infection, injury and irritation is inflammation. Reports revealed that
the anti-inflammatory effect is mediated by various inflammatory cytokines and non-cytokine mediators i.e. tumor necrosis factor alpha-a, nitric oxide, interleukins,
interferon gamma-g, and prostaglandin E2
respectively. Herbal medicine is playing an
important role in the treatment of COVID-19. Plant-based foods are rich source of
bioactive compounds (phytochemicals) and have a potential anti-inflammatory effect.
The purpose of this chapter is to sum up the recent findings of work already done both
in vitro and in vivo on the anti-inflammatory effects of plant-based foods. As a source
of natural modulators of gene expressions, phytochemicals from plants could be used
along with other pharmaceutical formulations as anti-inflammatory drugs. Therefore,
the regulation of inflammation by modulating the pro-inflammation and anti-inflammation cytokine expression through different plant-based food also boosts
immunity.
Keywords: Cytokines, Cyclooxygenase, Inflammation, Medicinal Plants, Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha
