Portulaca oleracea (Khurfa): A comprehensive review of its therapeutic potential in Unani Medicine

Md. Nazamuddin; Abdul Wadood; Najeeb Jahan; Md. Tanwir Alam; Md. Nafis Iqbal

doi:10.69980/redvet.v24i2.2123

Md. Nazamuddin
Abdul Wadood
Najeeb Jahan
Md. Tanwir Alam
Md. Nafis Iqbal

DOI: https://doi.org/10.69980/redvet.v24i2.2123

Keywords: Portulaca oleracea; Khurfa; Unani medicine; Mizaj; Traditional medicine; Scientific validation; Herbal pharmacology.

Abstract

Portulaca oleracea, commonly known as Khurfa in Unani medicine, is a widely used medicinal plant recognized for its diverse therapeutic applications. This review aims to bridge traditional Unani understanding with contemporary scientific validation. Drawing from classical Unani texts, the paper explores the Unani description like temperament (mizaj), pharmacological actions, indications, contraindications, correctives and dosage forms of Khurfa. The review further presents an in-depth analysis of modern pharmacological studies, highlighting the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, neuroprotective, hepatoprotective, hypotensive antidiabetic, hypocholesteraemic and antifertility properties of Portulaca oleracea. A comparative evaluation reveals a strong alignment between traditional claims and modern findings, establishing the plant’s continued relevance in integrative medicine.

Author Biographies

Md. Nazamuddin

Associate Professor, Dept. of Ilmul Advia (Pharmacology), Govt. Tibbi College and Hospital (GTCH), Patna

Abdul Wadood

Professor, Dept. of Ilmul Advia, National Institute of Unani Medicine, Bangalore, Karnataka

Najeeb Jahan

Professor, Dept. of Ilmul Advia, National Institute of Unani Medicine, Bangalore, Karnataka

Md. Tanwir Alam

Associate Professor, Dept. of Tahaffuzi wa Samaji Tib (PSM)

Md. Nafis Iqbal

Assistant Professor, Dept. of Munafeul Aza (Physiology), GTCH, Patna.

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