| مستخلص: |
Background: Saqmunia, a resin obtained from the root of Convolvulus scammonia L. is widely used in Unani system of medicine for the treatment of several body ailments. This important medicinal plant belongs to Convolvulaceae family, and is commonly grown in Mediterranean regions. Purpose of the review: The core objective of this appraisal is to emphasize the different characteristics of Saqmunia (Convolvulus scammonia L.) viz. botanical description, pharmacological and therapeutic properties, folklore uses, temperament, dose, scientific studies, etc, as mentioned in Unani and botanical literature which will enable in the rationale use of this botanical drug. Materials and methods: This review was undertaken with exhaustive literature survey of Unani and botanical texts, and published articles related to Saqmunia (Convolvulus scammonia L.). The botanical names of drugs mentioned in this review have been validated through 'World Flora' (http://www.worldfloraonline.orgTest). Results: The Unani physicians prescribe Saqmunia for the treatment of skin diseases, chronic headache, bilious fever, conjunctivitis, jaundice, etc. This drug is also added in many compound Unani formulations such as Habb-i-Kotwali, Safoof-i-Suranjan, Habb-i-Banafsha, Ayarij-i-Kabir, Tiryaq-i-Zahab, Habb-i-Saqmunia, Majun-i-Anjeer, etc which are used for various therapeutic purposes. The phytochemical analysis of the root of Convolvulus scammonia L. reported that it contains 8% resin along with beta-methyl-esculetin, dihydroxy cinnamic acid, ipuranol, sucrose, reducing sugar, starch, etc. The resin yields glycosides mainly scammonin which is pharmacologically active. Some scientific reports showed that this important medicinal plant possesses certain potential pharmacological activities. The significant anticancer property of aqueous and alkaline extracts of Convolvulus scammonia L. has been identified in mice. Conclusion: Although, the resin of Convolvulus scammonia L. is extensively used in Unani medicine. But, sufficient studies regarding its pharmacognosy, phytochemistry, pharmacology and toxicology are still lacking. Hence, it is suggested that extensive studies by using modern scientific parameters may be carried out to explore multi-dimensional utility of this important botanical drug. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
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