Evaluation of Efficacy of a Unani Formulation in the Management of Zightul-Dam-QaviIbtadai (Primary Hypertension)

Hypertension the “silent Killer” is considered to be a major health problem throughout the globe. This is due to high prevalence and its association with increased risk of cardiovascular complications. The term hypertension or Zightul-Dam-Qavihas not been mentioned in any of the classical Unani literature. The term hypertension was first used by Harry Gold Ballet in 1934 and the term Zightul-Dam-Qaviwas used by Unani scholars contemporary to Indian period. But most of the Unani scholars were familiar to manifestation of hypertension, as they have described most of its symptoms such as headache, palpitation, vertigo and epistaxis, due to imtala (plethora).

To evaluate clinical efficacy of drugs in hypertension, Qurs-e-Dawaushifawas chosen which contains Asrol (Rauwolfia serpentine Linn) and Filfilsiyah (Piper nigrum Linn.). This drug for hypertension is chosen to work upon, keeping in mind the side effects that appear inevitably with the standard drugs particularly after prolonged use. Hence, the present study is an attempt to evaluate the efficacy of these drugs on modern parameters in patients with essential hypertension.