Granulocytes

1 min readEvidence-linked topicGreen Medicine Encyclopedia

Also known as:  Microphages;  PMNs;  Polymorphs;  Polymorphonuclear Cells;  Polymorphonuclear Leukocytes;  Polymorphonuclear Phagocytes

 

Description

Granulocytes are a group of White Blood Cells so-named because they contain tiny granules, or sacks in the cell fluid that are filled with potent chemicals and active enzymes.

 

Biological Function of Granulocytes

Immune System

 Granulocytes contain potent chemicals and enzymes that are utilized by the body to digest and destroy Antigens.

 

These Foods/Herbs may Enhance the Function of Granulocytes

Herbs

 Echinacea may increase the number of circulating Granulocytes. 

 Mistletoe - Europeanmay stimulate the production of Granulocytes:  [1]

 

Oils (dietary Oils)

 Shark Liver Oil may increase the number of circulating Granulocytes and enhances their activity.  [2]

 

These Substances may Interfere with Granulocytes

A reduction in the number of Granulocytes below normal levels is known as Granulocytopenia (or Granulocytopaenia).

 

Prescribed Medications

 Zidovudine (AZT) may cause a reduction in the number of Granulocytes (i.e. it can cause Granulocytopenia).

 

Types of Granulocytes

 Basophils

 Eosinophils

 Neutrophils

 

This is one of more than 5,000 interlinked topics in the Green Medicine Encyclopedia.

Explore the full encyclopedia free