A Review of Kahu (Lactuca sativa Linn.): An Important Drug of Unani System of Medicine

Abstract

Kahu Lactuca sativa Linn. is a botanical origin drug of Unani system of medicine that is reported to be useful in various hot temperament disorders Amrad Mizaj-i-Haarsquor due to its cold temperament. Because of the presence of sesquiterpene lactones and phenolic compounds it functions as an anesthetic sedative hypnotic and anti-inflammatory. The goal of this study was to determine the morphological ethnomedicinal physicochemical and pharmacological qualities of Lactuca sativa Linn. in the treatment of a variety of diseases. The bibliographic databases PubMed Google Scholar Science Direct and Scopus were used to conduct a review of literature on Kahu. Lactuca sativa Linn. Kahu and Lettuce were among the keywords used to search the related information. Lactuca sativa Linn. has been used in single as well as in compound dosage forms for the treatment of different types of diseases. Traditional medicine practitioners have been using it since ancient times. Unani scholars claim that lettuce and its oil are beneficial in the treatment of insomnia pain and early stages of inflammation. Some clinical trials also point to the possibility of such an effect although more detailed and extensive research is needed to affirm such a claim.