Unani cosmeceutical formulations (Advia-E-Muzayyana): An overview

Abstract

Contrary to the common belief that cosmetic belong to the modern times. As a matter of historical fact, well before the invent of modern cosmetics, the Arab physicians had laid foundation of a new branch of medical science as Ilm-ul-zeenah, (science of beauty, i.e. cosmetology). Islam has given an impetus to this branch of knowledge through the teachings of Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) which recommend use of beautifying substances in general and perfumery in particular. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the concept of cosmetics and perfumery in Unani system of medicine and possibility of practical implications of Unani cosmeceutical formulations. An extensive description of different forms of cosmetics and perfumeries has been available in the vast Unani classical literature. The modern cosmetic and perfumery preparations are based on synthetic chemicals which have a lot of side effects. In Unani system of medicine, there are no such side effects found in a broad range of preparations derived from natural sources. Numerous formulations in different dosage forms are mentioned in the classical Unani literature not only for cosmetic purpose but for skincare too, thus, termed as cosmeceuticals.The famous formulations used are ghaza, ghamra, ghaliya, ghusool, ubtan, kajal, kohal, khizab, mascara, nura, itr, roghan, marham, tila, zimad etc. These formulations contain various Unani single drugs of plant, animal and mineral/metal origin, such as neem, turmeric pearl, aloevera, amla, clays, almonds, cucumber to name a few most sought after drugs. These drugs have been scientifically validated to prove the claims of Unani medicine.