Zumurrud (emerald): Medicinal Potential of a Gemstone from Jawaharat-i-tis ‘a(navratan), in the Perspective of Unani Medicine

Abstract

Emeralds are transparent and coloured varieties of beryl mineral. It is categorised as a precious and valuable stone. It has a beautiful, intense, and radiant green colour. Emerald is one of the most expensive gemstones due to its bright green colour, durability, and rare availability. A fine and top quality emerald is more valuable than diamonds. Basically, it is found in gold mines and takes a long period of 21 years to reach its complete formation. Emerald has been used for medicinal purpose from ancient time. In Babylon (the oldest gem market), the fine quality emerald crystal gem was dedicated to the goddess Venus. In the case of emerald, it is believed that it represents immortality and faith. In the Unani system of medicine, it is used as a vital organ tonic, cicatrizant, diuretic, lithotriptic, antidote, eye tonic, blood purifier etc. It is used in cases of anuria and some psychic conditions like stress and anxiety. It stimulates the use of greater mental capacity and enhances memory. No pharmacological studies on emerald have been done yet, so this article has been compiled for its medicinal uses in the perspective of Unani medicine to provide a lead for pharmacological studies on this precious gemstone.