Evaluating the Effectiveness of Saussurea Lappa Oil (Rogane Qust) in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: An Open-label Clinical Trial

Background: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) results from compression of the median nerve at the wrist, causing pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and arm. It is often linked to repetitive wrist movements, trauma, or conditions like diabetes. Conventional treatments, including corticosteroids, splints, and surgery, may not fully relieve symptoms and can have side effects. The Unani medical system offers alternative remedies, such as Saussurea costus (Falc.) Lipsch. oil, known for its analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. This study assesses its safety and effectiveness in managing CTS. Materials and Methods: An open-label interventional clinical trial included 15 CTS patients who applied Saussurea costus (Falc.) Lipsch. oil (5 ml) topically over the carpal tunnel area once daily for 15 days. Pain was measured using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), while symptom severity and functionality were assessed with the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ). Baseline and posttreatment scores were compared, with statistical significance set at P < 0.05. Results: Significant improvements were observed in both VAS and BCTQ scores following treatment. The mean ± standard deviation changes in VAS and BCTQ scores were 2.9 ± 1.0 and 10.1 ± 5.5, respectively, with a P = 0.001. No adverse effects were reported during or after the study. Conclusion: Saussurea costus (Falc.) Lipsch. oil ( Roghan-i-Qusṭ ) demonstrated significant efficacy and safety in reducing CTS symptoms, including pain and numbness, within 15 days of treatment. These findings highlight its potential as an effective and safe therapeutic option for CTS management (CTRI/2020/03/024071, March 19, 2020).