Phyto-pharmacological potential of Jaiphal (Myristica fragrans Houtt): A spice of medicinal importance and its utilization in Unani Medicine

Abstract

Jaiphal is a common fruit of Myristica fragrans Houtt. plant used as spices as well as for medicinal purpose in Unani System of Medicine since antiquity. The Saydalaneh (pharmacist) in Arab introduce a large number of new drugs to clinical use including nutmeg. As a Unani concept of temperament, it is hot and dry. It is very common and popular drug used as digestive, carminative, appetizer, exhilarant and mood elevator, antitussive, antiemetic, demulcent, aphrodisiac, stomachic, liver, nervine, cardio, and uterine tonic in Unani System of Medicine. Extensive information is provided in Unani text by Greek physicians about this drug so it is used in many compound formulations and useful recipes. These importance and benefits lead to further review to explore its medicinal importance. Review reveals digestive, appetizer, exhilarant and mood elevator, antitussive, antiemetic, nervine tonic, aphrodisiac, antidiarrheal, liver tonic, cardiotonic, and uterine tonic. Recent researchers indicate antimicrobial, hypolipidemic, antioxidant, anticancer, sedative, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory activity. Further, scope of research can also be explored with the help of traditional knowledge exist in Unani and other traditional medicine.