Ushaq (Dorema ammoniacum D. Don): A comprehensive review on traditional uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacological activities with special reference to Unani Medicine and recent scientific research

Abstract

Ushaq ( Dorema ammoniacum D. Don) is a plant-based oleo-gum-resin widely used in Unani Medicine and other traditional systems of medicine, especially in Iranian Traditional Medicine. With the growing global reliance on herbal therapeutics, this review aims to comprehensively evaluate Ushaq in light of classical Unani literature and contemporary scientific evidence. A manual survey of authoritative Unani texts was undertaken to document temperament, actions, therapeutic indications, dosage, adverse effects, and compound formulations of Ushaq ( Dorema ammoniacum D. Don). In addition, electronic databases including PubMed, Google Scholar, and Science Direct were searched (1826–2022) to compile data on their phytochemistry and pharmacological activities. Unani sources describe Ushaq as hot and dry in temperament, possessing anti-inflammatory, laxative, diuretic, vasodilatory, and wound-healing properties. It is traditionally indicated in arthritis, sciatica, splenomegaly, respiratory disorders, epilepsy, chronic wounds, and inflammatory swellings. Phytochemical studies reveal the presence of monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, and other bioactive constituents. Experimental studies demonstrate significant anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antifungal, antioxidant, anticonvulsant, analgesic, nootropic, cytotoxic, wound-healing, and antibenign prostatic hyperplasia activities. Some studies also report embryonic vascular toxicity and dose-dependent adverse effects. Overall, classical claims regarding Ushaq are substantially supported by modern pharmacological findings. However, further well-designed clinical trials are required to validate its safety, efficacy, and therapeutic potential in evidence-based practice.