International Journal of Unani and Traditional Medicine
The International Journal of Unani and Traditional Medicine (IJUTM) represents a beacon of scholarly excellence and intellectual inquiry in the realm of traditional medicine. Published by the Federation of Holistic & Traditional Medicine (FHT), IJUTM is a premier open-access, peer-reviewed journal that upholds rigorous academic standards. It serves as a platform for pioneering research and scientific discourse, embodying the FHT's dedication to advancing traditional medicine with global scientific recognition.
Federation of Holistic & Traditional Medicine (FHT)
Revisiting Classical Unani Concepts of Nasal Obstruction and Their Relevance in Contemporary Medicine
Background: Nasal congestion or nasal obstruction is one of the most frequently encountered complaints in otorhinolaryngology practice worldwide. It commonly results from inflammation, mucosal edema, excessive secretions, or structural blockage of the nasal passages and is associated with conditions such as rhinitis, sinusitis, allergic disorders, and upper respiratory tract infections. Persistent nasal obstruction significantly impairs quality of life by affecting breathing, sleep, olfactory function, and overall well-being. Despite the availability of modern pharmacological and surgical interventions, recurrent and chronic forms remain challenging to manage. The Unani (Greco-Arabic) system of medicine offers a distinct perspective on nasal disorders based on the theory of humoral imbalance. In classical Unani literature, nasal obstruction is described as Anfī Tasdīd, in which the accumulation of morbid humours, particularly Balgham, leads to blockage of the nasal passages and disturbance of normal respiratory function. Objective: This review aims to examine the concept of nasal congestion in modern medicine and correlate it with clinically comparable conditions described in classical Unani literature under Anfī Tasdīd, as discussed by scholars such as Jālīnūs (Galen), Muḥammad ibn Zakariyyā al-Rāzī, Ibn Sīnā, ʿAlī ibn al-ʿAbbās al-Majūsī, Ibn Zuhr, and Ibn Hubal al- Baghdādī. Methods: A comprehensive review of classical Unani texts and contemporary scientific literature was conducted. Classical sources including Al-Qānūn fī al-Ṭibb and Al- Ḥāwī were examined alongside modern biomedical databases such as PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. Results: Classical scholars describe Anfī Tasdīd as resulting from thick morbid humours obstructing the nasal passages, leading to symptoms such as nasal blockage, discharge, headache, heaviness of the head, and impaired smell. Management focuses on restoring humoral balance through ‘Ilāj bi’l-Ghidhā, ‘Ilāj bi’l-Tadbīr, and ‘Ilāj bi’l-Dawā, including inhalation therapy, nasal instillation, and herbal formulations. Conclusion: The Unani concept of Anfī Tasdīd shows notable parallels with modern descriptions of nasal congestion. These holistic therapeutic approaches may provide insights for the integrative management of chronic nasal disorders, although further scientific validation is required.
Anfī Tasdīd; nasal congestion; nasal obstruction; Unani medicine; Balgham; humoral imbalance; respiratory disorders.
Copyright (c) 2026 Fatima Anjum, Nazim Husain, Bushra Sabir, L Sreenivasa Naik, Mohammad Zaki Ahmad, Abdul Aleem (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The effect of Chamomile Oil Nasal Drop on Insomnia Severity Index in Managing Short-Term Insomnia in Young Adults: A Series of Case Reports
Background Insomnia significantly affects quality of life and often leads to treatment relapse, highlighting the need to explore safe and alternative clinical interventions. Chamomile oil (roghan-e- baboona) nasal drop has extensive clinical uses in traditional-Unani medicine for its therapeutic properties. However, there is currently no clinical evidence supporting their use in treating insomnia. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of chamomile oil on the management of insomnia. Case Presentation Seven participants (4 female and 3 male) ages 18-34 were diagnosed with short-term insomnia based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-V) criteria. They underwent a 14-day treatment with chamomile oil nasal drops before bedtime. Concurrently, two Unani interventions, namely Jawarish Shahi and Habb-e-Muqil, were administered for the management of constipation. Therapeutic response was evaluated using the primary measures (Insomnia Severity Index [ISI] and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index [PSQI]) and secondary measures (Quality of Life [QoL] and routine blood test). Results showed statistically significant improvements in ISI and PSQI (p < 0.001 for both scores), whereas QoLS, exhibited marked enhancement (p < 0.007). No participant reported adverse events during or after the study. Conclusion This case series suggests that, fourteen days chamomile oil nasal drop before bedtime, could be effective for insomnia. Further studies with larger sample sizes and control groups are needed to determine the efficacy and safety of this treatment for insomnia management.
Copyright (c) 2026 Meraj, Noushiba Khan, Abdul Rehman M.I., Sadique Husain, S.M. Abbas Zaidi, Almas Furquan (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Historical Overview of the Circle of Willis in Unani Literature
The Circle of Willis, a crucial arterial network at the base of the brain, is traditionally credited to the 17th-century English physician Thomas Willis. However, historical analysis reveals that earlier descriptions of this vascular structure exist in classical Unani medical literature. This article explores the contributions of prominent Unani scholars—such as Ibn Sina, Al-Razi, Ismail Jurjani, and Mansur ibn Ilyas—who provided detailed anatomical and functional descriptions of cerebral circulation that closely align with modern conceptions of the Circle of Willis. Drawing from primary Unani texts, the study highlights how these scholars recognized a vascular network surrounding the brainstem and pituitary region, attributing to it both anatomical and physiological significance within the humoral framework of their time. Their understanding, though expressed in different terminologies and embedded in the spirit-based physiology of Unani doctrine, demonstrates a sophisticated grasp of neurovascular anatomy that predates Western discoveries. This paper underscores the need to reevaluate the historical narrative of anatomical science and acknowledges the foundational role of Unani medicine in shaping modern neuroanatomy.
Dr Rummana Kauser Shabbir Ahmed Rummana Kauser
Copyright (c) 2026 Sana Kauser Ateeque Ahmed, Tasfiya Hakeem Ansari, Dr Ansari Huzaifa Saleem Ahmed, Rummana Kauser (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Mallotus philippensis Muell. (Kamela): A Review from Traditional Medicine to Modern Pharmacology and Industrial Applications
Objective This review provides a critical evaluation of the current body of literature on Mallotus philippensis Muell. Arg. (Kamela), with an emphasis on synthesizing its ethnomedicinal relevance, phytochemical profile, pharmacological potential, and industrial applications. The objective is to delineate existing research gaps and propose informed directions for future studies aimed at facilitating its development into scientifically validated therapeutic and commercially viable products. Methods A comprehensive and systematic literature search was performed across major electronic databases, including ScienceDirect, PubMed, and Google Scholar, using specific keywords such as "Mallotus philippensis", "Kamela", "phytochemistry", "pharmacology", and "ethnobotany". All pertinent publications, encompassing in vitro, in vivo, clinical, and ethnobotanical investigations, published up to the year 2024 were identified, reviewed, and critically analysed. Results M. philippensis occupies a prominent position in traditional medicinal systems, particularly across South Asia, where it has been employed for the treatment of a number of health conditions encompassing dermatological, helminthic, gastrointestinal, and inflammatory disorders. Its therapeutic efficacy is attributed to a diverse and bioactive phytochemical composition, predominantly comprising phenolic constituents such as rottlerin, in addition to triterpenoids, steroids, cardenolides, and flavonoids. Contemporary pharmacological investigations have substantiated numerous traditional applications, revealing significant anthelmintic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. Rottlerin, identified as the principal bioactive compound, functions as a multi-target molecule through mechanisms involving inhibition of protein kinase C delta (PKCδ) and modulation of apoptotic and autophagic pathways. Furthermore, M. philippensis possesses considerable socio-economic importance, with established applications in the dye, textile, and food industries. Conclusion Mallotus philippensis represents a pharmacologically multifaceted species with significant prospects for therapeutic innovation and commercial utilization. Nevertheless, the effective translation of its traditional uses into evidence-based biomedical applications remains constrained by the limited availability of well-designed clinical investigations, comprehensive toxicological assessments, and standardized extract formulations. To fully realize the pharmacological and industrial potential of this species, future research should prioritize elucidation of its molecular mechanisms of action, detailed pharmacokinetic profiling, and rigorous clinical validation.
Mallotus philippensis Muell., Kamala, rottlerin, antifungal, ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, pharmacological activities, natural dye
Copyright (c) 2026 Ibtisam Anwar, Shahid Khan, Ramsha Anwar, Mohd. Khalid (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Pathological Overview of Derangements in Asbāb Sitta Ḍarūriyya in Lifestyle Disorders
Lifestyle disorders (LSDs) represent a significant challenge worldwide, often arising from unhealthy dietary habits, lack of exercise, alcohol use, and smoking. These behaviours are major contributors to serious health conditions, including cardiovascular diseases, chronic respiratory diseases, metabolic disorders, and cancer, which are collectively classified as non- communicable diseases (NCDs). According to the World Health Organization (WHO), non- communicable diseases accounted for 66% of total deaths in India in 2019 and approximately 74% of all deaths globally. These diseases cause nearly 41 million deaths each year worldwide, and more than 15 million people die from NCDs between the ages of 30 and 69 years. In Unani medicine, lifestyle disorders are believed to arise from a prolonged imbalance in Asbāb Sitta Ḍarūriyya (six essential factors). This framework emphasizes the integrated role of Asbāb Sitta Ḍarūriyya as fundamental determinants in the prevention and pathogenesis of lifestyle disorders. This study aims to examine the pathogenesis of lifestyle disorders arising from imbalances in the Asbāb Sitta Ḍarūriyya (six essential factors).
Copyright (c) 2026 Ishrat Ali, Samreen Farha, Naved Akhter, Ataullah Fahad (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Mom (Beeswax): A Comprehensive Review Integrating Unani and Contemporary Medicines
Mom or Beeswax (Cera alba) is a natural secretion of honeybees (Apis mellifera, Apis cerana) that serves as both a pharmaceutical excipient and therapeutic agent in Unani and contemporary medicine. Classical Unani texts describe Mom (also called Qairoos) as Harr 2 Yābis and Raṭb Mu‘tadil. It possesses diverse ethnomedicinal properties, including Mulayyin (emollient), Muhallil (resolvent of swellings), and Mudammil (wound-healing), properties. It is recommended to use it in topical preparations such as Marham and Qairooti. Modern analyses confirm beeswax’s complex chemical composition, consisting mainly of esters, hydrocarbons, and free fatty acids and its notable physicochemical stability. Pharmacological investigations substantiate its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, gastroprotective, and wound- healing activities. Preclinical experiments using burn wounds and antimicrobial models validate its traditional applications. Clinical evidence includes randomised placebo-controlled trials of D-002 (Abexol), a purified beeswax-alcohol preparation, demonstrating symptomatic relief in osteoarthritis and gastroprotective effects. Pilot clinical studies confirming the safety and efficacy of honey, olive oil and beeswax mixtures in haemorrhoids and anal fissures. The convergence of Unani doctrine and modern biomedical evidence highlights beeswax’s dual role as a therapeutic agent and formulation base, supporting its continued clinical and formulation research.
Copyright (c) 2026 Dr Rahnuma Anjum, Dr. Arshiya Sultana, Dr Shahla Anjum, Dr Zya Shireen, Dr Farhat quamar (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Therapeutic potential of Zaitoon (Olea europaea Linn.) in Unani System of Medicine: An evidence-based approach
Zaitoon (Olea europaea), commonly known as olive, holds significant therapeutic and nutritional value and has been revered in traditional systems of medicine, including Unani, for centuries. Rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, polyphenols, flavonoids, and tocopherols, Zaitoon exhibits a wide array of pharmacological properties such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, anticancer, hepatoprotective, antidiabetic, and neuroprotective effects. The oil extracted from its fruit, especially extra virgin olive oil, has been extensively studied for its role in preventing metabolic disorders and enhancing overall health. Traditional Unani texts regard Zaitoon as a potent Muqawwi-e-A'za Ra’eesa (strengthener of vital organs), particularly the heart and brain. Modern scientific research further supports these claims, highlighting its potential in reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, regulating lipid profiles, and improving cognitive functions. This review aims to compile and critically analyse the phytochemical composition, pharmacological activities, and traditional uses of Zaitoon, bridging classical knowledge with contemporary scientific findings to explore its potential in evidence-based integrative medicine.
Zaitoon, Olea europaea L. pharmacology, anti-hyperglycemic
Copyright (c) 2025 Fouzia Bashir, Jamal Akhtar, Nighat Anjum, Shah Alam (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Integrative Insights into the Medicinal Potential of Bisfayej (Polypodium vulgare Linn.)
Approximately 80% of the global population relies on herbs and their constituents for medicinal purposes, as reflected in the rapidly expanding global and national markets for herbal remedies. Medicinal properties can be derived from the whole plant in its crude or extract form, or specific plant parts such as roots, fruits, seeds, flowers, and storage structures like rhizomes, bulbs, stamens, and tubers. Various natural organic and inorganic active compounds extracted from plants are widely utilized in medicine across many countries. Additionally, crude plant-based drugs are often considered safer for use compared to their isolated phytochemical counterparts. This review is aimed at presenting an overview of the medicinal properties of Polypodium vulgare Linn., its phytoconstituents and diverse pharmacological activities. A thorough literature survey was undertaken using the various classical Unani and Herbal literature books, as well as various online bibliographic databases, which were meticulously searched. P. vulgare is found to possess various medicinal and therapeutic properties and has a wide application in diseases such as arthritis, epilepsy, leprosy, melancholy and Alzheimer’s disease symptoms. Nevertheless, the concealed areas need to be evaluated to explore the practical clinical applications of P. vulgare roots.
Anti-epilepticAnti-spasmodic, Bisfayej, Melanagogue, Phlemagogue, Polypodium vulgare Linn
Copyright (c) 2025 Marhaba Khanam, Arshiya Sultana, Khaleequr Rahman (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Revisiting Ibn Rushd’s Kitāb al-Kulliyyāt fī al-Ṭibb: Philosophical Foundations and Contemporary Relevance for Unani Medicine
This article revisits Ibn Rushd’s seminal medical treatise, Kitāb al-Kulliyyāt fī al-Ṭibb, exploring its philosophical foundations, humoral theory, and enduring relevance to contemporary Unani medicine. Written in 12th-century Andalusia, the Kulliyyāt articulates medicine as an applied science rooted in Aristotelian epistemology, balancing theoretical knowledge with practical healing. Ibn Rushd’s seven-part classification of medical knowledge—spanning anatomy, physiology, pathology, diagnostics, pharmacology, preventive care, and therapeutics—reflects a systematic and holistic approach that prefigures modern integrative medicine. Central to his framework is the doctrine of humors and mizāj (temperament), which he presents as dynamic, individualized determinants of health. The article examines how Ibn Rushd’s emphasis on equilibrium, lifestyle factors, and treatment by contraries aligns with contemporary models of personalized and preventive care. It also highlights his methodological synthesis of empirical observation and rational analysis, anticipating principles of evidence-based medicine and clinical reasoning under uncertainty. By situating al-Kulliyyāt within both its historical context and modern discourse, the study underscores Ibn Rushd’s role in shaping a rational, ethical, and patient-centered medical tradition. His insights offer valuable perspectives for Unani practitioners and medical educators seeking to integrate classical wisdom with modern clinical standards.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mohammad Abul Mufazzal, Mohammed Yasir (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Exploring therapeutic implications of Faṣd (Venesection): An evidence-based approach
Faṣd is a foundational practice within Ilāj-bit-Tadbīr (regimenal therapy) framework of Unani medicine. Recognized for its preventive and therapeutic benefits, Faṣd (venesection) has been employed for centuries alongside other bloodletting techniques such as Hijāma (cupping) and Irsāl-e-‘Alaq (leech therapy). According to the World Health Organization’s International Standard Terminologies on Unani medicine, Faṣd or Al-Iftiṣād (IUMT-7.2.6) serves as a regimenal intervention aimed at the complete evacuation of morbid matter, thereby facilitating the moderation and balance of all four humours. The procedure involves the deliberate incision of specific veins to expel Akhlāṭ Radī’ (morbid humours) and restore the body's physiological equilibrium. Rooted in the principle of Istifrāgh (excretion), venesection is designed to alleviate Imtilā’ (congestion) and reduce blood viscosity, contributing to overall systemic harmony. This paper delves into the historical development of venesection, outlines procedural protocols, and highlights its therapeutic relevance. It further integrates contemporary scientific insights and identifies clinical conditions where Faṣd demonstrates potential efficacy.
Faṣd; Al-Iftiṣād;venesection; Ilāj-bit-Tadbīr; regimenal therapy; Unani; Istifrāgh
Copyright (c) 2025 Shah Alam, Jamal Akhtar, Irfan Ahmad, Nikhat Shaikh, Mohd Adil, Ziaur Rehman (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Secondary Infertility Due to Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS): A Case Report with Unani Therapeutic Approach
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder and a major cause of secondary infertility in women of reproductive age. Unani medicine offers a holistic approach by addressing the imbalance in temperament (Mizāj) and humors (Akhlāṭ). A 30-year-old female with a history of secondary infertility for four years, following one full-term delivery and a molar pregnancy, presented with oligomenorrhea and ultrasound-confirmed polycystic ovaries. She was treated with Safoof Darchini 5 g twice daily and Majoon Dabeed-ul-Ward 10 g at bedtime for two months, followed by Habbe Hamal 1 tablet thrice daily from Day 1 to Day 10 of each menstrual cycle. Safoof Darchini included Darchini, Rewand Chini, Abhal, Mushkatramashee, and Asgandh. The patient conceived in the second treatment cycle without any allopathic intervention, and her menstrual regularity improved. This case demonstrates the potential of Unani treatment as a safe, non-hormonal alternative in managing PCOS-related infertility.
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), Secondary Infertility, Unani Medicine, Safoof Darchini, Majoon Dabeed-ul-Ward, Habbe Hamal
Copyright (c) 2025 Rummana Kauser Shabbir Ahmed, Shaheda Rahmani, Tahzeeb Afroz Ansari (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Development of Mizāj Scale according to Nine Types of Tab‘i Mizāj (Normal Temperament)
The concept of Mizāj (temperament) is central to Unani medicine, serving as a framework for understanding physiological functions, supporting disease diagnosis, and informing therapeutic strategies. This article examines the prevalent use of a four humoral classi>ication for normal temperament (Tab‘i Mizāj)—Damawī, Balghamī, Ṣafrāwī, and Sawdawī—among Unani practitioners in the Indian subcontinent. Classical Unani texts by scholars such as Razi, Ibn Rushd, and Ibn Sina describe nine temperament types based on four qualities (Kayfiyat Arb’a): Harārat (hotness), Burūdat (coldness), Rutūbat (moistness), and Yabūsat (dryness), with one type, Mu’tadil, reflecting balance and the others showing non-moderate but non-pathological variations. The reliance on the four humoral model may lead to inconsistencies in education and clinical practice, as it diverges from classical descriptions that emphasize single qualities (Mufrad Kayfiyat) and Ajnās-e-Ashra parameters. This study proposes a diagnostic scale that assesses active and passive qualities separately to identify all nine temperament types, aiming to align with traditional Unani principles. The scale, derived from classical texts, seeks to enhance diagnostic clarity for diet, lifestyle, and treatment recommendations. Further evaluation and clinical studies are needed to validate the scale’s reliability and facilitate its integration into Unani practice.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mohammed Yasir (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Pharmacognostical Characterization of Lawsonia inermis Linn. Leaves
Traditional herbal medicine has been serving a crucial function in primary healthcare on a global scale. Recent research indicates that studies on traditional herbal medicine have been rising steadily each year since 1990, accompanied by a corresponding increase in global citations over this timeframe. The unproven legacy of these herbal medicines is now being proved on scientific lines. Recent uptrend in conducting researches in herbal systems of medicine have resulted in increased demand of herbal medicinal plants in the global phytomedicine market. As the demand increased chances of misidentification and adulteration of crude drugs have also escalated, which could potentially endanger the health and safety of the consumers. Therefore, proper identification and pharmacognostical evaluation of crude medicinal plants is required. In this regard pharmacognostical evaluation holds immense significance in the realm of medicinal plants and hence this study was initiated on Lawsonia inermis Linn., to evaluate the pharmacognostical features for proper identification like finding various morphological and microscopic characteristics of the leaves. Various leaf constants (Stomatal index, Stomatal number, Palisade ratio and vein-islet number, Vein termination number) were also analysed. Proper pharmacognostic identification of Lawsonia inermis may be instrumental in conducting further researches on this plant.
Copyright (c) 2024 Sumbul Rehman, Aisha Razi, Ameera Ayyub, Sehrish Khan, Sana Mustaqeem (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Ayurvedic Massage Concept: From Theory to Clinical Application
Classical term ‘Abhyanga’ in Ayurvedic Medicine is considered best for preventing diseases and promoting health known as ‘Ayurvedic Massage’ widely practised in Indian sub-continent, its an important and most commonly practised procedure from Paediatrics to Geriatrics. Most of the people understand Ayurvedic Massage therapy as oil application and massaging. It involves, vast considerations of therapy which includes the body humors, Seven Dhātus (Tissues), constitution of an individual with other considerations like selection of medicated oils, temperature, time, kind of friction and frequency of application, etc. The efficacy of Ayurvedic Massage therapy also depends on the appropriate selection of drug (according to condition/disease), skill of therapist, co-operation of patient and dietary regimens to be followed by the individual during and after the therapeutic procedure. In this article, the authors tried to explore the deeper understandings of Ayurvedic concept of massage therapy from theory to clinical application through a critical and analytical review.
Copyright (c) 2024 Biswajit Dash, Rajashree Biswal, Srikanta Panda, Santosh N. Belavadi Santosh N. Belavadi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
An Insight into Breeding of Medicinal Leeches: A Review
Leech therapy is a traditional method in the Unani System of Medicine. It involves applying live leeches on affected parts of the body surface to evacuate morbid matter and harness the therapeutic benefits of leech saliva. The declining population of medicinal leeches necessitates breeding these creatures to ensure a constant supply for clinical applications. This research paper primarily aims to highlight crucial aspects of successful medicinal leech breeding. It offers insights into the necessity, methodologies, and procedures involved in the breeding process. Additionally, it imparts fascinating information about the world of leeches.
Copyright (c) 2024 Shaziya Begum, M. Shoaib, Asia Sultana, Sohail Ahmad (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Ethnomedicinal Therapeutic Benefits of Tukhm-i-Kunjad (Sesamum indicum Linn.) in Urogenital and Other Systematic Diseases
Tukhm-i-Kunjad (Sesamum indicum Linn) Sesame seeds are a traditional oilseed crop from the Pedaliaceae family and the Sesamum genus. It is most commonly grown and cultivated in countries such as India, China, and South America. The seeds have wide medicinal and pharmaceutical applications. Sesame seeds have been used successfully in Unani medicine to treat urogenital disorders and other systemic diseases. Tukhm-i-Kunjad has aphrodisiac properties. It is also used in respiratory diseases such as cough, asthma and soreness of the throat. The paste of Tukhm-i- Kunjad is used as an anti-inflammatory property. This review made an effort to examine sesame seeds in traditional literature as well as explore them in scientific studies. To gather knowledge on sesame seeds, a manual literature search of Unani manuscripts was conducted. In addition, all accessible material on the phytochemical, physicochemical, and pharmacological studies have been collected using an extensive review of internet sources such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and Science Direct. Based on sesame studies regarding its physical and chemical properties, Sesame and its bioactive molecules are beneficial for various ailments. Sesame has been used as a treatment for oligomenorrhea, foetal abortion, and enhancing sexual tendency and sperm count in traditional ethnomedicinal properties. It also resolves inflammation and possesses aphrodisiac, demulcent, diuretic, emmenagogue, emollient, lactagogue, laxative, astringent, tonic, cooling agent, nourishing, and styptic properties. Sesamin, sesamol, sesamolin, and sesaminol are the main active lignans found in Sesamum indicum and are beneficial for a range of health conditions. Several in-vivo and in-vitro studies revealed that Sesamum indicum components have antioxidant, anti-microbial, analgesic, cardioprotective, anti-hypertensive, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Copyright (c) 2024 Sumbul, Arshiva Sultana, Sarfaraz Ahmad (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Zafran (Crocus sativus L.): A Review on its Ancient Use in Unani Medicine and Recent Scientific Studies
Background: Zafran is the dried stigmas of the flowers of saffron (Crocus sativus L.). Zafran has a rich history of medicinal applications, serving both as a food coloring and flavoring agent, as well as being utilized in traditional medicine for treating various ailments. The chief components of saffron are crocin, picrocrocin and safranal. Aims and Objectives: This review is designed to provide a comprehensive summary of the potential health benefits of Crocus sativus (Zafran or saffron) in Unani medicine and to discuss its recent phytochemical and pharmacological studies. Methods: The Unani classical literature was researched manually and online for this purpose. Various search engines Google Scholar advanced search, ResearchGate, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and AYUSH Research Portal etc. were searched by these search terms: "Saffron" OR "Crocus sativus" OR "Zafran" OR "C. sativus research paper" AND "Saffron and Unani system of medicine." Result: In Unani Medicine, Zafran is used medicinally as an important medicine single as well as in compound formulations. Evidence based pharmacological studies revealed that it has important pharmacological properties e.g., Immunomodulator activity, Neuroprotective Activity, Anti-Depressant Activity, Cardioprotective and Antiatherosclerosis activity, Anticonvulsant activity etc. Various types of active phytoconstituents also have been searched and evaluated from C. sativus which are crocin, crocetin, picrocrocin, Safranal, the glucosyl ester of crocetin, ß-carotene, Zeaxanthin etc. The presence of these phytochemicals may have contributed to the concerned pharmacological characteristics. Conclusion: Zafran constituents show a wide spectrum of biological activities due to its phytoconstituents. It has the potential to function as a highly efficient natural remedy for various diseases. Therefore, further in vitro and in vivo investigations are necessary to explore the suggestions of USM and other traditional medicinal systems regarding the broad therapeutic benefits of Crocus sativus.
Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Baladur (Semecarpus anacardium Linn): An overlooked Unani medicine having potential health benefits with broad spectrum of pharmacological activities
The herbal medicine is achieving attention globally for its different medicinal properties. Baladur (Semecarpus anacardium Linn.) is one of the medicines that possess a wide range of medicinal properties. It is generally known as marking nut which is well recognized for its folklore uses and etfective in various diseases both internally and externally. It is scattered in the sub-Himalayan and equatorial parts of India. It was used in the traditional system of medicine for various ailments as common household remedies since ancient times. Baladur has a broad spectrum of pharmacological activities like central nervous system (CNS) stimulant, antioxidant, anti-cancer, immuno-modulator, hypoglycemic, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, hypocholesterolemic, wound healing, hair growth promoter, etc. Immuno- boosting and other multifunctional qualities of this drug may be beneficial in the COVID-19 pandemic like situations. It has a great scope of research, especially on traditional or folklore uses. Despite having so many therapeutic benefits, this drug seems to be overlooked, hence further study on the scientific platform is advisable. Baladur comes under the category of a toxic drug, it may develop serious gastrointestinal symptoms and sterility in females if taken internally and causes inflammation, redness, and itching locally, therefore, it is recommended to be taken under the supervision of physician after the classical detoxification method.
Copyright (c) 2024 Yasmin Fatima, Abrar Mohd Khan, Afshan Qaiser, m Abdullah (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0