Effect of Functional Red Ginger and Cocoa Powder Drink on Mice’s Immune Response

Fauzan Azima, Novizar Nazir, Muhammad Iqbal and Daimon Syukri

Background and Objective: The COVID-19 spreads via respiratory droplets and is deemed a global pandemic. The immune system is essential in battling the virus, so it’s important to find natural foods that can boost immunological activity. Hence, this study examined the possible immune responses in male white mice ingesting a red ginger-cocoa beverage. Materials and Methods: The red ginger cocoa mix used in the study contained 5 g of cocoa powder, red ginger powder, sugar and 100 mL of water heated to 80°C. As 15 male white mice were separated into 5 groups, 3 mice each with various doses of red ginger-cocoa drink. The total number of leukocytes and their percentages, macrophage activity and capacity were all measured. All data were analyzed by one-way variation analysis. Results: The red ginger cocoa drink enhanced total leukocyte count in male white mice, most noticeably in the group that received the greatest dose while being within normal limits, according to the results. The percentages of various leukocyte types remained largely constant. Through increased phagocytosis, which increased with greater dosages, the beverage significantly improved macrophage function. Flavonoids and metabolites found in red ginger and cocoa have been responsible for this. The red ginger cocoa drink may have immunomodulatory effects in male white mice, according to increased leukocytes and higher macrophage activity. Conclusion: These findings suggested that cocoa powder and red ginger powder may be used as effective immunomodulators. To clarify the underlying mechanisms and investigate the usefulness of these functional drinks in human health, more research is required.

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