Case series demonstrates reduced pain and inflammatory markers in early rheumatoid arthritis, suggesting therapeutic potential for Unani polyherbal treatments.
Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder causing pain, stiffness, and disability. Conventional therapies are effective but limited by adverse effects. Unani medicine offers polyherbal formulations such as Majoon‑e‑Ushba (MU), traditionally prescribed for Waja ‘al Mafāṣil. Objectives: To assess the efficacy and safety of Majoon‑e‑Ushba (MU), with adjunct Unani powders in early RA, stratified by serological status. Methods: A prospective, open‑label case series at Ajmal Khan Tibbiya College & Hospital enrolled five patients (Stage 1–2 RA) based on ACR/EULAR 2020 criteria (three RF/ACPA positive, two seronegative). Majoon‑e‑Ushba (6 g twice daily) plus a powder blend (Colchicum luteum, Trigonella foenum graecum, Nigella sativa, Lepidium sativum) was administered for 8 weeks. Outcomes: It included VAS pain, stiffness, joint counts, and inflammatory markers. Results: Significant improvements were observed: VAS 7.4 ± 1.1 to 3.2 ± 0.8 (t=9.21, p<0.001); stiffness 45 ± 12 to 12 ± 5 min (t=8.74, p<0.001); joint counts 6.8 ± 2.3 to 2.0 ± 1.1 (t=7.95, p<0.001); ESR and CRP declined (p<0.01). One seronegative patient achieved remission. Conclusion: Majoon‑e‑Ushba with adjunct powders produced statistically significant clinical and laboratory improvements in both seropositive and seronegative RA, supporting traditional claims of immunomodulatory and bone‑protective effects. Larger controlled trials are warranted.
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Bano et al. (2026) studied this question.
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