Astragalus sarcocolla Dymock (Anzarūt): Pharmacological activities and therapeutic uses in Unani Medicine

Abstract

Oleo-gum-resins have been used since antiquity in traditional systems of medicine for their wound healing, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. Astragalus sarcocolla Dymock, commonly known as Sarcocolla or Anzarūt , yields a yellowish-brown oleo-gum-resin that is extensively used in Unani medicine for both topical and systemic ailments. The present article aimed to review the botanical characteristics, ethnobotanical significance, Unani pharmacological concepts, chemical composition, and reported pharmacological activities of A. sarcocolla . Relevant classical Unani texts were reviewed to document traditional descriptions, temperament, actions, uses, dosage, and formulations of Anzarūt, along with the contemporary research database for the same. Phytochemical constituents and pharmacological studies for Anzarūt were surveyed. Phytochemical investigations reveal that A. sarcocolla gum resin contained carbohydrates, uronic acids, polysaccharides, flavonoids, phenolic acids, saponins, terpenoids, sterols, and amino acids. Experimental studies demonstrated significant antimicrobial and antioxidant, spasmolytic, and bronchodilator effects attributed to potassium channel activation, while anticoagulant and antiplatelet activities were confirmed through in vitro human blood assays. Traditional Unani uses, such as desiccative, cicatrizing, deobstruent, and anti-inflammatory properties, correlate well with modern pharmacological findings. Mild toxicity has been reported, though less potent than other gum-resins. The convergence of traditional Unani knowledge and contemporary scientific evidence supports the therapeutic potential of A. sarcocolla . Its broad pharmacological profile, particularly in wound healing, antimicrobial activity, smooth muscle relaxation, and hemostatics modulation, implies its efficacy as a natural medicinal agent. Further preclinical and clinical studies are warranted to validate its safety and efficacy for drug development.