Effect of bengkoang (Pachyrhizus erosus) fiber extract on murine macrophage-like J774.1 cells and mouse peritoneal macrophages

► Bengkoang fiber extract (BFE) was prepared by heating the bengkoang fiber in water at 121 °C. ► BFE stimulated the phagocytotic activity of J774.1 cells and mouse peritoneal macrophages. ► BFE facilitated production of TNF-α and IL-6 by mouse peritoneal macrophage in vivo. ► BFE facilitated gene expression of nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase-2. ► BFE was found to stimulate the innate immune response as well as the acquired immune responses.