Usrub (lead) and its compounds used in Unani Medicine: Overview

Abstract

Metals and minerals are integral parts of Indian Systems of Medicine including Unani Medicine. Usrub (lead) is one of the seven metals of antiquity used in prehistoric times. The medicinal use of lead preparation is reported in pre-Dynastic Egypt and by the ancient Indian civilisations from 3200 to 2800 BC. Lead in various forms i.e. Usrub (lead) and Aabar (burnt lead/ashes of lead), Isfidaj (white lead), Suranj (red oxide of lead), Murdar sang (litharge/lead monoxide) and Ithmid (lead sulfide) are used in Unani Medicine. Usrub (Lead) naturally occurs as galena (lead sulfide) from which it is obtained by roasting. The compounds of lead for medicinal uses are generally prepared by a particular method. Most of the lead compounds are used as external applications for the healing of wounds. For oral use, calx form is recommended. The lead is absorbed into the human body from the gastrointestinal and respiratory tract. It is least absorbed through intact skin. Approximately 80 to 90 percent of absorbed lead is excreted through urine, feces and sweat. When blood level in adults crosses the limit of 10 µg/dl and in children 3.5 µg/dl the signs of poisoning may appear. The present review will be helpful for students, researcher for a better understanding of lead’s medicinal use and for further studies.