Unani System Of Medicine Research Articles

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 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,

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.

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

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

Effects of COVID-19 Pandemic on the Mental Health of Women and Treatment of Mental Disorders in the Unani System of Medicine: An Overview

Background: The world miserably collapsed when the COVID-19 (Coronavirus disease) pandemic was going out of control. The ongoing crisis has damaging effects on the mental health of individuals, predominantly women, in both developed and developing countries. Women in developing countries, both as frontline workers and at home, are at increased risk of mental health problems (specifically mental disorders). A few observational studies related to the COVID- 19 pandemic have reported a higher prevalence of mental health problems like stress, anxiety, depression, insomnia, fear, delirium, hysteria etc. among women compared to men. Thus, understanding the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on women's mental health are as important to discuss as their physical health effects. Objective: The Unani System of Medicine (USM) has a holistic approach to preventing, treating, and curing mental disorders. The present article aimed to provide an overview of the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on women's mental health and its containment measures described in classical Unani texts besides their relevance in the current outbreak. Materials and Methods: A manual literature survey of classical Unani literature such as Firdaus- al-hikmat, Al Qanoon-fit-tib, Zakheera Khwarzam Shahi, and Kamilus Sana was conducted to collect the information available on the strategic approaches of health promotion and disease prevention in Unani Medicine. To obtain the appropriate English equivalent words for Unani terms and the scientific name of the drugs, “Standard Unani Medical Terminology” and “Classification of Unani Drugs” were consulted, respectively. Many pharmacological books and papers were considered from PubMed, Google Scholar etc. Results: According to the literature review results, Unani doctors have pushed the adoption of personalised and predictive methods for preserving health and preventing diseases. The main focus is to treat the fragile population, i.e., women affected by mental illnesses. Conclusion: The present article emphasizes the mental health problems among women provoked by the COVID-19 pandemic, their possible etiopathogenesis, prevention, and psychological, regimental and pharmacological management of the USM.

CLASSIFICATION OF TANAFFUS (RESPIRATION) WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO UNANI MEDICINE: A REVIEW

Breathing or respiration has been essential in human life since ancient times. Philosophers and physicians of ancient times such as Hippocrates, Galen, and others had already written about breathing in literature. These antiquated viewpoints established the foundation for contemporary respiratory physiology and medicine. The Hippocratic literature established the importance of breath in maintaining the body's humour balance, whereas Galen elaborates on the anatomical and functional elements of respiration. Literature related to respiration is surveyed from various Unani classical books and their translations, commentaries, previous dissertations, journals, proceedings, etc. Hippocrates and Ibne Sina mentioned ten and seventeen types of respiration respectively. Ibne Sina also explained five special types of respirations. This research paper aims to explore and analyse the understanding and significance of respiration in the Unani system of medicine. And also provides a comprehensive overview of how ancient philosophers understood respiration.

Concept of Hypertension in Unani System of Medicine: A Comprehensive Review

Concept of Hypertension in Unani System of Medicine: A Comprehensive Review

Safūf-i Aslussūs: A time-tested polyherbal formulation for the management of Premature Ejaculation- A comprehensive review

Premature Ejaculation (PE) is the most prevalent male sexual complaint worldwide. The ability to control the timing of ejaculation is very important to get pleasure and to maintain the couple’s sexual health. PE is believed to have a multifactorial etiology which mainly includes psychogenic and biogenic factors. Currently available conventional drugs are based on mere assumptions and their use in PE is considered off-label as they have not been approved by the regulatory bodies. On the other hand, Unani System of Medicine has a holistic approach to the prevention and treatment of diseases and provides a line of treatment for PE which is mainly focused on the internal and external use of specific drugs for the restoration of lost powers, elimination of morbid humor and strengthening of organs, muscles, and nerves. In classical Unani literature, PE/Surʻat-i-Inzāl are described in detail under the heading of Amrāz-i-Bāh. In the series of drug therapy a polyherbal Unani formulation, Safūf-i Aslussūs mentioned in different Unani Pharmacopoeias for the management of PE, and Spermatorrhoea is widely prescribed and recommended for a long time by Unani physicians and it is a time-tested drug. This manuscript is an attempt to summarize scientific studies in support of the claim made by Unani physicians regarding Safūf-i Aslussūs. Keywords: Safoof-i Aslussoos, Surʻat-i-Inzāl, Premature ejaculation, Unani System of Medicine

A Review of Darchini (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) in Unani Medicine with Therapeutic Benefits and other Pharmacological potential

Darchini (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) is a bark of a cinnamon plant that belongs to the Lauraceae family. Cinnamon is a rich tasting and aromatic spice used by different cultures worldwide. Recently, many phytochemicals were discovered and obtained from Darchini. Numerous experimental research using these phytochemical components have established several therapeutic actions. In addition, it possesses useful medicinal properties and is considered a remedy for indigestion, flatulency, depletion of innate heat, respiratory diseases, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and neurological disorders. A manual literature search of classical Unani manuscripts was carried out to acquire information on temperament (Mizaj), pharmacological activities and medicinal applications of Darchini. In addition, all accessible material on phytochemical, physiochemical and pharmacological studies have been collected using an extensive review of internet sources such PubMed, Google Scholar and Science Direct. The aim of this review article is to further highlight the discovered pharmacological effect and medicinal values of Cinnamomum zeylanicum as per the Unani literature as well as scientific research. Based on scientific studies regarding its phytochemical components, it is beneficial for various ailments. Darchini also has a beneficial effect on some gynaecological disorders such as amenorrhoea, dysmenorrhoea, leucorrhoea, menorrhagia, prolapse, and vaginosis. However, there is need to conduct experimental and clinical study to validate their effectiveness and safety in humans. Keywords: Cinnamomum zeylanicum, Darchini, Gynaecological disorders Phytochemicals, Unani system of medicine

A Review of Current Research on Traditional Medicines for the Treatment of Gastrointestinal and Biliary Disorders

Abstract: Gastrointestinal (GI) and biliary disorders are the most commonly known health issues for people in the present time as a consequence of modern lifestyle, eating habits, stress, and many other conditions. The usage of traditional substances has been phased out over time, resulting in an increase in the occurrence of numerous diseases and a decrease in immunity. Therefore, in the current scenario, traditional medicine is increasingly being used to treat and manage diseases worldwide. Traditional medical systems of India, China, and Africa are the most frequently used today. Indian medicinal system includes the Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani systems of medicine. Ayurveda is the most antique system of medicine, which relies on the usage of plant-based formulations. Herbal medicines are used nowadays by up to half of the world's population. Phytomedicines isolated from plants contain a wide variety of bioactive components that can have both negative and positive effects. Many herbal plants, such as Acacia, Aloe, Carum, Rose, Funnel, etc., are proven to be effective as phytomedicines that are effective for the cure of gastrointestinal and biliary problems. The available pharmacological therapeutic drugs often have efficacy but are associated with many adverse effects. To minimize the adverse effects, the use of phytomedicines can be the best possible alternative. In this study, a review of some of the most frequently used traditional herbal medicine isolates with their proven pharmacological activity and novel drug delivery systems for the proper delivery of isolates is presented. Moreover, currently available herbal-marketed formulations are also highlighted.

A Comprehensive Review of Insomnia and Its Regimenal Management in The Unani System of Medicine

Objective: The objective of this review is to explore the Regimenal Therapy for the Management of Insomnia in contrast to Unani Classical Literature. Therefore, further clinical studies will be done for its scientific validation. Data Source: The review data were gathered from peer-reviewed research articles taken from several online resources, including PubMed, Google, and Google Scholar. Keywords including Insomnia, and prevalence of insomnia were part of the online search strategy. Library of Hakim Syed Ziaul Hasan, Bhopal was also accessed for the Unani Classical literature. Summary: Insomnia is characterized as a persistent difficulty with sleep initiation, duration, consolidation, or quality that occurs despite adequate opportunity and circumstances for sleep, and results in some form of daytime impairment. It is currently a prevalent disease with the incidence varying globally between 10% and 60%. Insomnia is described as Sahar or Bekhaabi in the Unani System of Medicine. Thirty Unani Classical Literature reviewed; 19 were relevant to Insomnia, and 9 were related to Regimenal Therapy. Thirteen therapies explored: Naṭūl, Sa‘ūṭ, Tadhīn, Ḥammām, Dalk, Riyāḍat, Ṭilā’, Ḍimād, Lakhlakha, Shamūm, Qaṭūr, Nashūq, Pāshoya. These therapies are beneficial for managing Insomnia. Conclusion: The implication of Regimenal Therapy appears promising and describes its possible uses for Insomnia. Use of regimenal therapies with fewer drugs, which seems to be effective for Insomnia. Further clinical studies are required to scientifically validate the existing Regimenal Therapy about its efficacy and safety. Keywords: Insomnia, Ilaj bil Tadbeer, Regimenal therapy, Sahar, Unani System of Medicine

Ms. Savita Satakopan—A doyen of research in the field of Pharmacognosy

Abstract Savita Satakopan, born in 1927, was a renowned figure in drug standardization and quality control in Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani systems of medicine. She spent 25 years researching and analyzing Ayurvedic drugs and raw materials, focusing on identifying genuine classical crude drugs, adulteration, and developing quality standards for sample analysis. Miss. Satakopan traveled to various countries in the 1970’s to develop analytical methods for Ayurvedic drugs and published numerous papers that contributed to the quality control measures of Ayurvedic drugs. As a member of the Ayurvedic Pharmacopeia Committee, she provided guidelines and established basic principles for pharmacopeial test methods. She also advised botanical studies and contributed to the Ayurvedic pharmacopeia of India. At 94, she passed away, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in botany. Her passion for research and dedication inspired aspiring young scientists, ensuring her impact would be felt for generations to come.

Unani Fundamentals portraying Public Health and Healthy Nation

The establishment and upkeep of national health depends heavily on public health. The endeavor entails employing diverse tactics and measures to safeguard, enhance, and elevate the well-being of societies. Unani medicine, an ancient system of healing that originated in Greece and was later developed and enriched by Persian and Arabic physicians, has its own set of principles that can contribute to public health and the creation of a healthy nation.Unani fundamentals approaches health holistically, taking into account physical, mental, social and spiritual factors.In addition to providing customized care based on a patient's constitution (temperament or Mizaj), Unani system of medicine has several other benefits for the general public's health for example prevention and maintenance of one’s health through ‘Asbab Sitta Daruriyya waGhair Daruriyya’ that includes dietary recommendations, lifestyle modifications, sleep patterns and performing practices like cleanliness and moderation, doing exercise etc. Additionally, integrating Unani medicine into community health programs like health camps, awareness sessions and distribution of herbal formulations for common ailments can provide a holistic approach to healthcare. In summary, Unani medicine's emphasis on holistic health, preventive care, individualized treatment, natural remedies, lifestyle modifications, community health, and integration with modern medicine aligns with the goals of public health. The objective of this study is to shed light on the foundations of Unani medicine, which is crucial for preserving health at all levels and enhancing it when combined with contemporary medical procedures to improve health both nationally and among individuals.

Management of Amenorrhoea (Ihtibas-al-Tamth) in Unani System of Medicine: A Review

Menstrual patterns can be an indicator of overall health and self-perception of well-being. Amenorrhoea is the absence of menses in women of reproductive agewhich may be primary or secondary. Primary amenorrhoea refers to the absence of menarche at the age of 16 and secondary amenorrhoea is the cessation of menses for at least 6 months in already cycling women. Secondary amenorrhoea is more common than primary amenorrhea. Ihtibas al-Tamth (amenorrhoea) is defined in the Unani system of medicine as the absence of monthly bleeding for more than 2 months or a decrease in the quantity of menstrual blood. The etiologies of amenorrhoea may be considered categorically as outflow tract abnormalities, primary ovarian insufficiency, hypothalamic or pituitary disorders, other endocrine gland disorders, sequelae of chronic disease, physiologic, or induced. The causes of Ihtibas al-Tamth are related to Quwwat Dafia al-Badan, Madda and Johar Khun-i-Hayd, or Ala Makhraj -i-Hayd. Su’-i-Mizaj Barid, Yabis, Harr or Harr wa Yabis, Su’-i-Mizaj Maddi or Sada can lead to Du’f al-Quwwat-i-Dafia. Abnormality in quality and quantity of Madda in Su’-i-Mizaj Maddi can also lead to ihtibas al-tamth. Amenorrhoea is not a diagnosis but a symptom indicating anatomical, genetic and neuroendocrine abnormalities. It can be determined by two different groups of causes: (a) anatomical defects of the genital organs; (b) endocrine dysfunctions. Both congenital and acquired anomalies in the structure of the uterus and vagina could produce amenorrhoea; nevertheless, in most patients, amenorrhoea is related to an ovarian malfunction. Symptoms usually associated with amenorrhoea are headache, nausea, back ache and lower abdominal pain, tiredness, and some respiratory problems. Main principle of treatment includes Tawleed-i-Dam, Tanqiya-i-Akhlat Ghaleeza, Talteef-i-Khilt, Tafteeh-i-Uruq Raham and Tahzeel if obesity is the cause. Surgical intervention if hymen is imperforated. Some regimenal therapies are also beneficial in amenorrhoea, such as Fasd-i-Safin, Hammam-i-Murattib and Hijama-i-Nariya on calf area. Some Unani drugs, which are beneficial in amenorrhoea, are Habb-i-Mudir, Safoof-i-Baboona, Kushta Faulad, and Safoof Muhazzil. In the present scenario, it is utmost important to educate the patients to live a healthy and hygienic life and to avoid those factors which cause amenorrhoea.

Devising of Lazūq (A Conventional Unani Dosage Form) with reference to Transdermal Patch; Then and Now: A Critical Review

Objective: The endeavor is made to criticize the classical indications, preparations and application of Lazūq even after passing many centuries since its inception. Background: According to classical Unani literature, Lazūq is primarily formulated for headache, migraine, toothache, cervical pain, dropping of uvula and different types of pain like sciatica, backache, myalgia and some orthopedic conditions. Its approach is still conventional that encompasses thick sticky stuff of drug/s which is pasted over a cloth or thick paper, consequently, maximum ratio of medicinal properties remains insignificant owed to stratum corneum (layer of skin that functions as a barrier). Devising and method of drug delivery in classical form of Lazūq makes it inconvenient to the patient, thus, it drops patient’s compliance and anticipated efficacy. In this day and age, Unani practitioners do not prescribe it very often because of its devising and limited indications documented in classical literature. Hence, it’s now becoming out of practice. Whereas, modern medicine is practicing its novel approach epitomized as Transdermal patch for several bodily conditions like Acute post-operative pain, Alzheimer disease, Angina pectoris, Anti-emetic patch, Atrial fibrillation, Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, Dementia, Depression, Dysmenorrhea, Hypertension, Local dermal analgesia, Menopausal symptoms, Motion sickness, Osteoporosis, Overactive bladder, Parkinson’s disease, Post herpetic neuralgia pain, Smoking cessation, Tic disorder, Tourette syndrome and to prevent pregnancy. In transdermal patch, drug is used in micro/nano form with chemically produced permeation enhancers (CPEs) and other smart physio-chemical techniques that makes it very easy to apply, imparts maximum active pharmaceutical ingredients with controlled release of drug. Methodology: Ancient classical Unani formulations of Lazūq was appraised and then its course with respect to today’s newer formulations as transdermal patch was reviewed to look for its progress and application in novel dosage form with the advantage of innovations in pharmaceutical and allied sciences. Conclusion: Classical Unani formulations of Lazūq must be reviewed, transformed, evaluated, coped and applied as per the standard operating procedures (SOPs) of transdermal drug delivery system. Future Prospects: New formulations of Lazūq should be designed and appraised from the medicinal treasure of Unani system of medicine for different therapeutic conditions.

Extraction and Analytical Study of Semecarpus Anacardium L. Seed Oil

Bhallataka, also known as the marking nut or dhobi nut, is a potent ingredient in Ayurvedic medicine. Despite its irritant nature, it's been used for centuries to treat a myriad of diseases. Its oil, extracted using the Patala Yantra, is a key formulation in Ayurvedic pharmaceutics. Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, is gaining global recognition for its holistic and natural approach to health. A significant part of Ayurvedic treatments are plant-based, ranging from raw plant materials to refined extracts. One such plant is Semecarpus anacardium Linn, the botanical source of Bhallataka. The plant is being traditionally used by the ancient healers in clinical practice. Apart from the clinical uses the plant was also used for marking clothes, as hair dyes and in many non-therapeutic uses as well. Bhallataka is a plant which holds much significance in Siddha and Unani system of medicine. Various studies have been conducted to understand its physical and chemical nature of the plant, in order to understand its use in therapeutic purposes. Chemical and phytochemical analysis of Bhallataka nut reveals a treasure trove of bioactive compounds- biflavonoids, phenolic compounds, bhilawanols, minerals, vitamins, and amino acids. These compounds make Bhallataka effective against various diseases like arthritis, tumors, and infections. The oil of Bhallataka, extracted using the Patala Yantra method, is particularly noteworthy. This oil is an integral part of Ayurvedic pharmaceutics, and its application is referenced in various ancient texts.

A Review on Antioxidant Activity of Rosa Damascena

Rosa damascena is one of the most important Rosa species for the flavour and fragrance activities. Roses are well known as ornamental plants grown for their flowers in garden and indoors. This plant is cultivated all over the world including Iran, Europe, Bulgaria, Turkey and India. Various parts of Rosa damascena like petals, hips, stems, leaves and roots having medicinal properties and contains various secondary metabolites including vitamins and minerals. The flower petals of Rosa damascena are high in phytonutrients with antioxidant and antibacterial properties. This plant has been used in Ayurveda and Unani systems of medicine since ancient era and have many pharmacological properties including anti-HIV, antibacterial, antioxidant, antitussive, hypnotic, antidiabetic, antifungal, antiaging, anti-inflammatory and others. Various products can be obtained from Rosa damascena are rose water, rose oil and medicinal products. Keywords: Rosa damascena, Damask rose, Antioxidant activity, Rose oil, Rose water

Unani perspective of Saffron (Crocus sativus Linn.) beyond a spice

Background: Saffron is a significant medicinal herb that has a lot of potential for use in the development of new drugs. Since ancient times, saffron (Crocus sativus L.) has been associated with various health benefits in various parts of the world. Some of these applications have been overlooked over time. However, interest in naturally occurring active compounds has rekindled interest in saffron's past applications and the best applications for saffron today can be aided by knowing its various historical uses. It was prized as a culinary spice as well as a perfume, color, and medicinal herb. It was used medicinally in many different cultures to treat a wide range of ailments, from genitourinary to eye problems. In many countries, it was also used as an antidepressant and tonic substance.
 Objective: The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the traditional and modern uses of Crocus sativus, with particular attention to its chemical makeup, pharmacological characteristics, and ethnobotanical description.
 Methodology: Scientific databases and publications about the chemical profile, biological activity, and historical use of saffron were included in the literature search.
 Results: Saffron is bitter, acrid, fragrant, stimulant, tonic, stomachic, aphrodisiac, anodyne, antispasmodic, emmenagogue, diuretic, laxative, galactagogue, and helpful in treating bronchitis, vomiting, fever, melancholia, hepatomegaly, etc. it is widely used in alternative medicine, such as the Unani System of Medicine, Ayurveda, and Traditional Chinese Medicine. Saffron has been the subject of numerous phytochemical and biochemical studies due to its extensive use in traditional medical systems. These studies have revealed that saffron contains a number of constituents, including crocetin, safranal, and crocins, the latter of which is primarily responsible for pharmacological actions.
 Keywords; saffron, medicinal herb, unani medicine, crocetin, safranal, emmenagogue.