Neuropharmacological profile of Ḥabb-e-Ṣar‘: A Unani pharmacopeial formulation for epilepsy

Abstract

Background

Epilepsy, known in Unani medicine as Ṣar‘, is a neurological disorder caused by abnormal neuronal activity that manifests as recurrent, unprovoked seizures, often with frothing from the mouth. The conventional anti-epileptic drugs carry several adverse effects, and it is also documented that nearly 30 % of the patients fail to respond to therapy. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the use of plant-based anti-epileptic drugs due to their efficacy in controlling seizures, and other beneficial effects like neuroprotection, multi-dimensional actions, and long-term safety, which are not seen with conventional drugs. In this context, Ḥabb-e-Ṣar‘ is a Unani pharmacopeial formulation which contains Aloe vera (L.) Burm.f. leaf pulp, Boswellia serrata Roxb. oleo-gum resin, and Castoreum; and is prepared as small pills. It is widely used by Unani physicians in India for the management of epilepsy in both children and adults.

Purpose

This study is aimed to explore the neuropharmacological activity of the ingredients of Ḥabb-e-Ṣar‘, a Unani anti-epileptic medicine, to understand its action-mechanism and efficacy in epilepsy management.

Methodology

The neuro-pharmacological activity of three ingredients of Ḥabb-e-Ṣar‘ was explored in research articles published between 1996 and 2024 on leading scientific websites, in which any of the three ingredients or their extracts were studied in single form.

Results

Several bioactive constituents present in Ḥabb-e-Ṣar‘have a dose-dependent anti-seizure activity, among other important actions which are imperative for epilepsy management. For instance, Aloin, Aloesone (from A. vera), incensole acetate, and β-boswellic acid (from B. serrata) demonstrate a dose-dependent anti-seizure activity. Acetyl 11-keto-β-boswellic acid is attributed with a neuro-protective effect, improves cognition, relieves anxiety, and has also been demonstrated to cause neuronal repair after injury. Phenolic acids and anthraquinones present in A. vera are known to protect against neuronal death. Salicin present in castoreum is the precursor of salicylic acid, which lowers calcium ion reflux and blocks seizures. Hence, the combined effects of these ingredients in Ḥabb-e-Ṣar‘ can effectively help in managing the symptoms and long-term complications of epilepsy.

Conclusion

This review provides a detailed insight into the actions and neuropharmacological activity of the ingredients of Ḥabb-e-Ṣar‘. It is evident that the ingredients of Ḥabb-e-Ṣar‘ not only have anti-seizure activity, but also improve memory, cognition, and neurological health, hence leading to a holistic healing effect. However, rigorous scientific studies are required to standardize the formulation and study its interaction with conventional anti-epileptic drugs. With targeted researches, Ḥabb-e-Ṣar‘ may be used in integration with conventional anti-epileptic regime.