Therapeutic and Nutritional Insights into Jaggery (Gur): A Unani Perspective with Biomedical Evidence
Keywords:
Jaggery, Gur, Unani medicine, Antioxidant, Hematinic, Glycemic Index,Abstract
Jaggery (Gur) is a traditional unrefined sweetener prepared from sugarcane or date palm sap and has long been used in Unani medicine as both a nutritive and therapeutic agent. Unlike refined sugar, jaggery retains molasses and therefore contains important minerals and antioxidant compounds. Classical Unani literature describes it as a digestive, blood-forming, expectorant, and general tonic, and recommends its use in anemia, respiratory disorders, and weakness. Modern studies support many of these claims by demonstrating its antioxidant and protective effects and its role in improving iron status and nutritional quality of the diet. Jaggery has also gained attention as a base for functional foods. However, its use requires caution in individuals with diabetes due to its effect on blood glucose. This review integrates Unani concepts with contemporary scientific evidence to highlight the nutritional and therapeutic potential of jaggery.
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- 18-05-2026 (2)
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Copyright (c) 2026 Bushra Sabir, Safia Usmani, Fatima Anjum, Raghubanshi, Khem Chand, Mahboobus Salam, Najmus Sahar (Author)
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
