Unani Medicine Research Articles

Unani Regimenal Therapy for Knee Osteoarthritis (Waja ‘al Rukba): A Comprehensive Scientific Assessment

Pain in the joints has been a common and serious health issue for a long time. In Unani medicine, both inflammatory and non-inflammatory joint problems are grouped under the term "Waja‘al-Mafāṣil," which means joint pain. Osteoarthritis, based on its symptoms, is very similar to a condition in Unani medicine called Waja‘al-Mafāṣil Balghamī. One of the most common types of osteoarthritis is Knee Osteoarthritis (KOA), which is known in Unani medicine as Waja‘al Rukba. This chronic and painful condition is usually treated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), but these drugs can have many side effects. In contrast, the Unani system of medicine uses a more comprehensive approach to manage osteoarthritis. Waja‘al Rukba is managed with Istefragh (evacuation) followed by Tadeel Mizaj (rejuvenation), Taqwiyat (strengthened) and Taskeen (pain is relieved). Istefragh is achieved using specific Unani herbal treatments, like Munzij-Mushil Therapy followed by Tadeel Mizaj using various techniques, including Ḥijāma (cupping), Dalk (massage), Ta‘līq al-‘Alaq (leech therapy), Ḥammām (Turkish Bath), Takmeed (fomentation), Naṭūl (irrigation), Qay‘ (vomiting), and Ḥuqna (enema). Taskeen and Taqwiyat are achieved using either medications or these modalities. This overview focuses on Waja‘al Rukba and its Regimenal management. Keywords Ilājbi’lTadbīr, Osteoarthritis, Unani, Waja ‘al Rukba, Waja‘al Mafāṣil,

The Respiratory Reflex of Cough: A Comparative Study of Contemporary Medicine and Unani Concepts

Cough suddenly and frequently helps to remove mucus, irritants, foreign substances, and bacteria from the airways. It can be a symptom of a respiratory infection like the common cold, bronchitis, tuberculosis, influenza, smoking, or other health issues. Contemporary texts describe several kinds of coughs, including acute, chronic, and subacute coughs, coughs that produce or do not produce mucus, and specific types like Reflex cough, voluntary cough, and evoked cough. In Unani texts, cough is referred to as diseases rather than symptoms. it is also called as “Sual” in Arabic, “Surfa” in Persian, khansi in Hindi, and cough in English. In Unani medicine, Sual is attributed to three causes: Ashab-e-badiya (extrinsic factor), Asbab-i- Wassila (intrinsic factor), and Iltehab (inflammation). The primary categories of Sual identified in Unani texts are Sual yabis and Sual Ratab, which are further subdivided into various types. This paper examines the concept, causes, types, and treatment approaches to Sual/Cough as described in both classical and modern literature. Keywords: Cough, Sual, Surfa, Modern concept Unani literature, sual yabis, sual ratab.

Concept of Dementia and its Management in Unani System of Medicine: A Review

Dementia, derived from Latin meaning “without mind,” is a significant global health concern and the seventh leading cause of death, characterized by the progressive deterioration of cognitive functions, including memory, thinking, and behaviour. As the global population ages, dementia's prevalence is anticipated to rise dramatically, with an estimated 50 million cases currently worldwide, projected to reach 152 million by 2050. The two primary causes are Alzheimer's disease and vascular disorders. In the Unani system of medicine, dementia, referred to as Nisyān, is attributed to the dysfunction of three internal faculties: imagination (Qüwwate Khayal), thought (Qüwwate Fikr), and memory (Qirwwate Zikr), influenced by factors such as abnormal temperament (Sü' Mizāj) and disruptions in structural integrity. Clinical features vary, with early signs including short-term memory loss and disorientation. The condition can be classified into primary (degenerative) and secondary (acquired) dementias. Risk factors include age, family history, and lifestyle choices. Treatment principles in Unani medicine focus on addressing the underlying causes, correcting brain temperament, evacuating morbid matter, and employing dietary, regimental, and pharmacotherapeutic approaches. This holistic framework underscores the importance of traditional medical systems in understanding and managing dementia, advocating for a comprehensive approach to treatment that encompasses both modern and traditional practices. Keywords: unani system of medicine, Dementia, cognitive decline, Dietotherapy, su’Mizaj

Unani Integrative Approach for the Management of Sciatica, Employing Pharmacotherapy with Regimenal Therapy: A Case Report

Sciatica, a subtype of low back pain (LBP) is one of the most common clinical complaints in primary care which is characterized by pain that originates in the lower back or buttocks and radiates down one or both legs along the distribution of the sciatic nerve. It commonly results due to nerve root compression by a prolapsed lumbar disc. Sciatica affects both genders equally and has an annual incidence of 1-5%, most common in 30-65 years of age. The management of sciatica includes non-pharmacological, pharmacological and surgical approaches. Combining these management techniques can help in pain reduction and thereby can lead to an overall wellbeing of the individual. In this case report we present the case of a 52 year old male patient with lower back pain radiating to left lower limb who came to Department of Regimenal therapies, National Institute of Unani Medicine, Bengaluru. The patient had taken NSAIDs and other measures for pain management from last 6 months. Despite taking exhaustive measures, no significant improvement was seen. The symptoms have gotten worse over the past two months. After complete clinical examination and diagnosis, the patient underwent treatment for 4 weeks using integrative approach in the form of unani pharmacotherapy, coupled with regimenal therapy. Many objective parameters were used to evaluate the patient both before and after the intervention. The assessment parameters after the intervention reported a significant amelioration of the symptoms. Our study suggested that, management of sciatica with an integrative strategy can be considered. Keywords: Sciatica, LBP, lumbar disc, Integrative therapy, NSAIDs, Regimenal therapy.

Identifying Potential Natural Antibiotics from Unani Formulas through Machine Learning Approaches.

The Unani Tibb is a medical system of Greek descent that has undergone substantial dissemination since the 11th century and is currently prevalent in modern South and Central Asia, particularly in primary health care. The ingredients of Unani herbal medicines are primarily derived from plants. Our research aimed to address the pressing issues of antibiotic resistance, multi-drug resistance, and the emergence of superbugs by examining the molecular-level effects of Unani ingredients as potential new natural antibiotic candidates. We utilized a machine learning approach to tackle these challenges, employing decision trees, kernels, neural networks, and probability-based methods. We used 12 machine learning algorithms and several techniques for preprocessing data, such as Synthetic Minority Over-sampling Technique (SMOTE), Feature Selection, and Principal Component Analysis (PCA). To ensure that our model was optimal, we conducted grid-search tuning to tune all the hyperparameters of the machine learning models. The application of Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP) with SMOTE pre-processing techniques resulted in an impressive accuracy precision and recall values. This analysis identified 20 important metabolites as essential components of the formula, which we predicted as natural antibiotics. In the final stage of our investigation, we verified our prediction by conducting a literature search for journal validation or by analyzing the structural similarity with known antibiotics using asymmetric similarity.

Comprehensive Review on Nilofar (Nymphaea alba Linn): Unani Perspectives and Therapeutic Potentials

Nilofar (Nymphaea alba Linn) is commonly known as the white-water lily. It is a hydrophyte with enormous medicinal properties, renowned for its alluring white flowers. It is distributed worldwide in ponds, lakes, and marshy areas. Its various parts have been extensively utilized in Unani medicine globally, particularly in the Indian subcontinent, to prevent and treat a variety of ailments. Numerous research findings have documented its therapeutic effects, including anti-inflammatory, anti-hepatitis C, anti-diarrheal, hepatoprotective, antibacterial, anticarcinogenic, antiurolithiatic, uterotonic, anxiolytic, antidepressant, CNS depressant, anticonvulsant, antihyperlipidemic, and antioxidant activities. In Unani medicine, Nilofar is used to treat various illnesses such as palpitations, diarrhea, hepatotoxicity, inflammation, migraines, anxiety, depression, and convulsions. Nilofar contains a variety of chemical constituents, including alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, phenolic content, glycosides, aglycons, phenolic acids, cardiac glycoside nymphalin, and others. This review explores the therapeutic potential of Nilofar, shedding light on its pharmacological properties, traditional uses, and emerging research. By combining traditional knowledge with the latest scientific findings, this review aims to encourage further research and facilitate its integration into mainstream healthcare practices.

Prescribing Pattern and Treatment Outcomes in Upper Respiratory Tract Infection: A Comparative Study of Allopathic and Unani Medicine

Background and objectiveUpper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) rank among the top three diagnoses in outpatient settings. URTIs patients currently have access to treatment choices encompassing traditional and allopathic medications. The study aimed to elucidate the prevailing treatment practices in Unani and allopathic systems for URTIs, while concurrently assessing their efficacy in alleviating its symptoms. Materials and methodsA cross-sectional study was conducted at NIUM Hospital and a primary health centre in Bengaluru between June to December 2022. 200 eligible patients (100 per facility) were selected through purposive sampling. Prescriptions were analysed using established WHO and customized Unani indicators. Treatment efficacy was assessed using the WURSS-21 and Jackson scales. Information from the patients was gathered through interviews after obtaining written informed consent. ResultsThe average number of drugs per prescription was 2.68 in allopathy and 3.87 in Unani medicine. Antihistamines and antibiotics were the most prescribed drugs in allopathy, with cetirizine and amoxicillin dominating the list. In Unani Medicine, Arq Ajeeb and Nuqoo-e-Nazla were commonly prescribed. Only 10.8% of prescribed drugs in allopathy were from WHO list of essential medicines. Statistically significant improvement (p<0.001) in URTIs symptoms was observed with both Unani and allopathic treatments. ConclusionThe findings indicates that average number of drugs per prescription in both facilities were above the recommendations. In allopathy, overprescribing of antibiotics and antihistamines, and deviation from EDL, was observed, while polypharmacy was noted in Unani prescriptions. Findings indicate that both Unani and allopathic treatments are effective in alleviating the URTIs symptoms, as reported by patients.

Essential Oils of Some Potential Medicinal Plants and their Wound Healing Activities.

The wound has been recognised as a deep cut or tearing of the epidermis, which is also referred to as trauma and harm to the body tissues. Healing of wounds requires a coordinated series of cellular processes, including cell attraction, proliferation, differentiation, and angiogenesis. These processes involve interactions between various cells, such as macrophages, endothelial cells, keratinocytes, fibroblasts, growth hormones, and proteases. The outcome of wounds can be fatal if not treated properly, resulting in chronic wounds, chronic pain, and even death. Wound healing is replacing missing tissue with tissue repairs and regeneration. Some local variables are the presence of tissue maceration, foreign objects, biofilm, hypoxia, ischemia, and wound infection. Sustained growth factor delivery, siRNA delivery, micro-RNA targeting, and stem cell therapy are all emerging possible therapeutic approaches for wound healing. Traditional approaches, such as Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani medicines, are also being used for treatment. The therapeutic application of nanoformulations in wound infections has shown various beneficial effects. Several herbal medicines, especially essential oils have shown potential wound healing activities, such as lavender, tea tree, sesame, olive, etc. Various nanoparticles and their nanoformulations have been explored in wound healing therapy. The present review article highlights several aspects of essential oils for wound healing activity through a novel drug delivery system. Further, some patents on wound healing through herbal medicine have been listed.

"Understanding and treating baras (vitiligo) in unani medicine: historical perspectives, pathophysiology, and therapeutic approaches".

Vitiligo, also known as a in Unani medicine, causes patches of depigmented skin due to the loss of melanocytes. According to ancient Unani scholars, factors like excessive phlegm in the blood and weakened color-controlling power were believed to be the cause. This study dives into the historical insights of luminaries like Majūsī and Hakim Akbar Arzānī, alongside modern medical understanding. It explores the pathophysiology, epidemiology, and clinical features of vitiligo, while also addressing confusing definitions, dietary influences, and demographic patterns. We take a close look at the classification, prognosis, and investigative methods. The aim of this research is to bring together traditional and modern perspectives to fully understand vitiligo, covering its cultural, historical, and scientific aspects. By incorporating epidemiological data, dietary considerations, and insights into the underlying mechanisms, we enhance diagnostic and treatment approaches. In conclusion, this study establishes a cohesive connection between the historical wisdom of Unani medicine and the current scientific discourse on vitiligo. By merging these perspectives, we gain a comprehensive understanding of the condition, enabling a more holistic approach to diagnosis and management. As dermatological research continues to evolve, the integration of traditional and modern insights becomes crucial in effectively addressing complex skin disorders like vitiligo.

Pharmacovigilance Consideration for Ayurvedic Medicines in Pediatric Practice: Developing Protocols for Documenting Clinical Safety

Background The rising global trend of traditional medicine and complementary and alternative medicine use necessitates a structured approach to ensure patient safety and efficacy. Due to its unique theoretical framework, directly applying modern pharmacovigilance principles to Ayurveda may be insufficient. Purpose This study aims to highlight the need for a collaborative approach that integrates traditional Ayurvedic knowledge with modern safety and efficacy evaluation methods. It critiques the limitations of current pharmacovigilance practices, especially in the context of Ayurveda, and proposes improvements to better capture the complexities of traditional medicine. Methods An analysis of the “AyushSuraksha” program, a key initiative for the pharmacovigilance of Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, and homoeopathy (ASU&amp;H) medicines in India, was conducted. The program’s focus areas, including monitoring medications, specific materials, and procedure-based therapies, were reviewed in light of their efficacy and safety reporting mechanisms. Additionally, the applicability of current pharmacovigilance methodologies, particularly in the context of personalized Ayurveda treatments, was evaluated through case studies and literature reviews. Results The “AyushSuraksha” program, while focused on medication and therapy monitoring, overlooks the safety of food items used in Ayurveda. Current pharmacovigilance systems, designed for standardized medications, may be inadequate for Ayurveda, as demonstrated by positive outcomes in autism treatment despite the presence of microbiologically harmful products. Furthermore, existing pharmacovigilance proformas lack a distinction between physicians’ and end-users perspectives, limiting the reporting scope. Conclusion A transition to a holistic, evidence-based pharmacovigilance approach that incorporates Ayurvedic assessments and nonlinear herbal interactions is crucial. Separate proformas for physicians and end-users, along with disease-specific questions, are recommended to improve reporting accuracy. Expanding the scope of pharmacovigilance beyond standardized medication monitoring is essential for the evolution and refinement of Ayurvedic science.

Effect of leech therapy in dermatophytosis: A randomized standard controlled trial

Background and purposeIn Unani medicine leech therapy is used as analgesic and resolvent purposes. The saliva of leech contains various biological substances like Hirudin, hyaluronidase, vasodilators, anesthetics, antibacterial, fibrinases, collagenase etc. To compare the efficacy of Leech therapy with local antifungal clotrimazole (1 %) cream in dermatophytosis on long term basis. Material and methodsA randomized, standard controlled, open labeled, clinical study was conducted on 40 patients of dermatophytosis, aged 18–60 years, and were randomly assigned into two groups; 20 patients in test group and 20 in control group. Patients were diagnosed clinically and confirmed through KOH examination. Complete haemogram, bleeding and clotting times, random blood sugar, HIV I & II, and HBsAg tests were carried out before starting the therapy, while haemogram was repeated after completion of treatment too. In test group, five sittings of leech therapy were applied, with intervals of one week. The control group was given clotrimazole (1 %) cream for topical application twice daily, continuously for a period of 28 days. Post-treatment follow-ups were done on 35th day in person, and then over the phone on 45th, 60th, and 90th days. Data were collected using Signs and Symptoms Severity Score for study, and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). After completion of trial, appropriate tests were applied for statistical analysis of data. ResultsThe study shows, in most of the parameters, statically significant therapeutic effect in both the groups (p<0.001). No patients of either group reported any adverse event throughout the trial. Conclusionit appeared that leech therapy can contribute significantly in treating dermatophytosis (Qūbā) without any adverse effect, and with prolonged efficacy compared to standard treatment.

A Systematic Review of Barley (Hordeum vulgare Linn.) in Unani Medicine with Recent Advances

Objective: The present review article focuses on exploring the wide dimensions of barley including botanical description, nutritional composition, phytochemistry, experimental pharmacology, and clinical studies along with its traditional uses in Unani medicine. Background: Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) which is referred to as ‘Jao’ in the Unani system of medicine has a long history of utilization as a food and medicine. It belongs to family Poaceae and is considered as one of the founder crops of old-world agriculture. Methodology: A manual literature survey of classical Unani texts was conducted to collect the information available on ‘Jao’. Besides, a comprehensive search of electronic databases like PubMed, Google Scholar, and Science Direct, was carried out to collect all the available information regarding its phytochemical, pharmacological and clinical studies. Result: In Unani medicine, barley is an important drug commonly used in many disorders of the respiratory system, gastrointestinal system, musculoskeletal system, skin, etc. It is used to treat obesity, diabetes, headache, pain and inflammation of the throat, acute swelling of joints and gout, chronic swellings, diarrhoea, fever, skin eruptions, hyperpigmentation of the skin, etc. Recent studies revealed that barley constitutes beta-glucan and a myriad of bioactive compounds that play numerous biological activities such as hypoglycemic, hypocholesterolemic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-obesity, anticancer, and wound healing activities. Conclusion: Barley is a potent drug that exhibits a wide range of health benefits, most of which have been confirmed via preclinical and clinical studies. This review may thus be helpful for the research community as well as common people to avail the benefits of this drug. Keywords: Barley, Beta-glucan, Hordeum vulgare, Jao, Unani medicine

Management of Hand Eczema with Unani Medicine: A Case Study

Background: Eczema, is a common chronic skin condition that can lead to recurrent infections and poor quality of life if left untreated. This paper presents the case of a 30-year-old male patient, who came to the outpatient department (OPD) of the Kashmir Tibbia College Hospital and Research Centre, Shilvath, Bandipora, Kashmir, India. Clinical presentation: His chief complaints were lesions on the palm of his left hand for one year. The patient also complains that his skin is black and thickened with severe itching on the affected area. Diagnosis: The patient was diagnosed clinically with hand eczema resembling Nar-e-Farsi in the Unani system of medicine. Interventions: For 30 days, Marham Kafoor was topically applied twice a day at a dose of 8-10 gm. Outcome: The patient was assessed before, the 15th day and 30th day of treatment based on the EASI, POEM, and VAS. Results: After the intervention, significant improvement was observed in all scales from baseline to 30th day. EASI changes from 18 (moderate) to 5 (mild), POEM changes from 19 (severe) to 7(mild), and VAS from 8 (severe) to 1 (mild). Conclusion: Marham Kafoor has been proven beneficial in treating hand eczema and enhancing patients' quality of life Keywords: Eczema; Marham Kafoor; Unani Medicine

Venesection (Fasd): Historical Insights and Modern Implications: A comprehensive review

Ilaj bit Tadbeer, a vital therapeutic approach in the Unani system of medicine, focuses on modifying six essential elements to restore health. This approach encompasses various regimenal therapies such as cupping (Hijāma), leeching (Ta'līq or irsal-e- 'Alaq), venesection (Fasd), massage (Dalk), irrigation (Natūl), emesis (Qay'), diuresis (Idrār-i-Bawl), diaphoresis (Tariq), concoction and purgation (Mundij and Mu'shil therapy), medicated steam (Bukhoor), cauterization (Kaiyy), and enema (Huqna). Fasd is a crucial regimen in Ilaj Bit Tadbeer, serving as a method to eliminate morbid material from the body to treat diseases or maintain good health. With a history of almost 3000 years, Fasd has been effectively utilized in treating various ailments across different eras. Although venesection, or Fasd, has a historical significance, its modern application has declined due to the lack of scientific validation. This review aims to explore the historical context, therapeutic applications, contraindications, and contemporary scientific evidence of Fasd, emphasizing its potential in modern medicine. Keywords: Ilaj bit Tadbeer, Unani medicine, Fasd, venesection, therapeutic applications, scientific evidence.

Management of Knee Osteoarthritis with integrative approach using Regimenal therapy (Massage and Medicated Steam Fomentation) and Pharmacotherapy (Habb-e -Muqil): A Case Study

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common progressive musculoskeletal disorder, that is characterized by pathological changes in cartilage, bone, synovium, ligament, muscle, and periarticular fat, leading to joint dysfunction, pain, stiffness, functional limitation, and loss of day to day life activities. It affects an estimated more than 240 million people worldwide. It can involve almost any joint but typically affects the hands, knees, hips, and feet. In India, 28.7% of adults ≥ 40 years of age and 45.5% of adults ≥ 60 years of age have KOA. The annual incidence rate of KOA in India is 2.4%. The management of KOA involves a comprehensive approach, including non pharmacological management, pharmacological management, and surgical management. In Unani medicine, KOA comes within the domain of a broader term, “Waja-ul-Mafasil”, which refers to joint pain. It occurs due to quantitative and qualitative derangement of Akhlat (humors) and derangement of optimal temperament (Mizaj). We present the case of a 48 year old male patient, who was presented to the OPD of Regimenal therapies at National Institute of Unani Medicine, Bengaluru. Patient complains of bilateral knee pain, stiffness, limited mobility and difficulty in daily activities since 3 years. Pain exaggerates on walking for more than 50 minutes and standing continuously for more than 30 minutes. The patient was assessed and examined clinically prior to intervention and was diagnosed with bilateral KOA, which was further accentuated by radiological investigations. The patient received treatment for 6 weeks. The patient was assessed using multiple assessment parameters at baseline, 3rd and 6th week. The patient reported improvement in both subjective and objective parameters. The study found that massage therapy and steam fomentation along with pharmacotherapy can be an effective approach in treatment for KOA, however it merits further research. Keywords: Osteoarthritis, joint pain, bilateral knee pain, stiffness, limited mobility

Management of Knee Osteoarthritis (KOA) with Integrative Therapy: A Case Report

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a serious public health concern and is described as a disorder characterised by degradation of articular cartilage, bone remodeling and inflammation, leading to pain, stiffness and functional impairment, primarily affecting weight bearing joints and hands. KOA affects more than 650 million individuals worldwide and is a leading cause of disability. In India, 28.7% of adults ≥ 40 years of age and 45.5% of adults ≥ 60 years of age have KOA. The annual incidence rate of KOA in India is 2.4%. The management of KOA involves a comprehensive approach, including non-pharmacological management, pharmacological management, surgical management, alternative therapies and lifestyle changes. By combining these management strategies, individuals with KOA can effectively reduce pain, improve function, and enhance their quality of life. We present the case of a 55-year-old female patient with bilateral KOA, who presented to Department of Regimenal therapies, National Institute of Unani Medicine, Bengaluru. The patient had taken NSAIDs and other measures intermittently for pain management from last 3 years. The symptoms have worsened from last 2 months despite taking medicines. The patient was assessed and examined clinically prior to intervention. The patient underwent treatment for 30 days with integrative therapy comprising of pharmacotherapy coupled with regimenal therapy. Prior and post intervention, the patient was assessed using multiple objective parameters. The patient reported amelioration of symptoms, which was also reflected by assessment parameters post intervention. The study found that integrative approach can be effective treatment for KOA. Keywords: KOA, Integrative therapy, NSAIDs, Regimenal therapy.

Lokāt (Eriobotrya japonica; family: Rosaceae): Nutritional and Medicinal Properties, in the Light of Unani Medicine and Scientific Studies

Eriobotrya japonica Lind. (Family: Rosaceae) named as loquat, is a subtropical fruit, which is well known medicinal plant cultivated in Japan and China. Various parts, like leaves, peels and fruits have been shown to possess various useful health benefits. In Unani medicine, it is vastly utilized in many illnesses, like fevers, nausea, de-arranged sanguinous humour (diseases due to morbidity of blood), indigestion, liver diseases, vomiting, dysentery, wounds, inflammations etc. Loquat plant contains many active constituents, such as glycosides, flavonoids, polyphenolic compounds, tannin etc. and nutritional and mineral compounds like, carotenoids, vitamins, starch, amino acids, sugar and others. According to various pharmacological studies it is found that the plant has many biological effects like antitussive, anti-melanogenic, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, kidney protective, hepatoprotective and hypolipidemic activity. This review aims to shed light on the therapeutic applications of loquat based on both traditional Unani literature and scientific studies conducted on different parts of the plant.

Post-I-Halela Zard (Terminalia Chebula Retz.): An Overview of the Key Medicinal Plant and Therapeutic Uses in the Unani System of Medicine

The Unani System of Medicine (USM) has long employed terminalia chebula, a significant medicinal plant in pharmaceutics, to treat a wide range of illnesses and infections. The distinctive phytoconstituents (chebulenic acid, corilagin and casuarinin) found in this herb are thought to be a valuable and affordable source. These phytoconstituents are commonly used in the production of medications with higher safety margins and fewer harmful effects against various ailments. The mature dried fruits of terminalia chebula belong to the combretaceae family. It is also referred to as Halīlaj Asfar in Arabic, Halela Zard in Persian, Haritāki in Hindi and Chebulic Myrobalan in English. According to their level of maturation, each of these varieties can take on different forms, making this categorisation well-known in the USM. Halela has been used in Unani medicine for a very long period, either alone or in different compound formulations like Itrīfal or Triphala. The entire plant, with its great medicinal potential, has been used by Unani physicians to treat a wide range of conditions in humans. It is used as a blood purifier, astringent, cholagogue, carminative, brain tonic, eye tonic, cardiotonic, stomach tonic, gastrointestinal motility, kidney tonic and digestive anthelmintic. Terminalia chebula possesses a multitude of pharmacological and therapeutic qualities, including hepatoprotective, wound-healing, anti-oxidant and anti-diabetic effects. In an effort to clarify further research in this field, this study aims to shed light on T. chebula by describing its widely recognised medicinal benefits. KEYWORDS: Halela Zard, H

Successful Management of Waja’al-Rukba (Knee Osteoarthritis) with Unani Pharmacopeial Poultice: A Case Study

Knee osteoarthritis (Knee OA) is the most common Musculoskeletal disorder, which causes functional disability thus, increasing the economic burden in society. In Unani medicine knee Osteoarthritis is treated with various regimens and drugs. Among these regimens, Dimād (Poultice) is prepared with several single Unani pharmacopeial drugs that exert anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anti-arthritic actions. Keeping this in mind a case study was conducted to assess the efficacy of Dimād-i-jalinus a pharmacopeial Unani formulation in the management of Knee OA. A 63-year-old female patient with chief complaints of pain and swelling in the left knee joint, joint stiffness and mild tenderness feeling severe pain while performing daily activity for the last 6 months was treated at OPD of Hakim Syed Ziaul Hasan Govt. (Auto) Unani Medical College &amp; Hospital, Bhopal. Dimād-i-jalinus was given to the patient, in paste form and the patient was explained to use this paste over the anterior surface of the Left knee joint and the bandage was wrapped to keep the medicines in place overnight every day for 14 days. The patient was assessed at baseline, 7th day and 14th day based on changes in subjective and objective parameters with the help of Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC). The present study reveals that Dimād-i-jalinus is safe and effective in treating Knee OA without any side effects. Therefore, further randomized clinical studies need to be carried out to validate the effectiveness of Dimād-i-jalinus in the management of Knee OA.

The Emergence of N. sativa L. as a Green Antifungal Agent.

Nigella sativa L. has been widely used in the Unani, Ayurveda, Chinese, and Arabic medicine systems and has a long history of medicinal and folk uses. Several phytoconstituents of the plant are reported to have excellent therapeutic properties. In-vitro and in-vivo studies have revealed that seed oil and thymoquinone have excellent inhibitory efficacy on a wide range of both pathogenic and non-pathogenic fungi. The present review aims to undertake a comprehensive and systematic evaluation of the antifungal effects of different phytochemical constituents of black cumin. An exhaustive database retrieval was conducted on PubMed, Scopus, ISI Web of Science, SciFinder, Google Scholar, and CABI to collect scientific information about the antifungal activity of N. sativa L. with 1990 to 2023 as a reference range using 'Nigella sativa,' 'Nigella oil,' 'antifungal uses,' 'dermatophytic fungi,' 'candidiasis,' 'anti-aflatoxin,' 'anti-biofilm' and 'biological activity' as the keywords. Black cumin seeds, as well as the extract of aerial parts, were found to exhibit strong antifungal activity against a wide range of fungi. Among the active compounds, thymoquinone exhibited the most potent antifungal effect. Several recent studies proved that black cumin inhibits biofilm formation and growth. The review provides an in-depth analysis of the antifungal activity of black cumin. This work emphasizes the need to expand studies on this plant to exploit its antifungal properties for biomedical applications.