Clinical Study on the Management of Uterine Fibroid (Sal‘āt- al-Raḥim) with an Unani Polyherbal Formulation: A Case Report

Abstract

In the Unani system of medicine, uterine fibroids are referred to as Sal'āt-al-Raḥim. Also known as leiomyomas, these benign tumors are composed of smooth muscle and connective tissue within the myometrium. Uterine fibroids are a major health concern, with their prevalence varying across ethnic groups. Studies suggest that over 50% of women above the age of 45 are affected. This paper presents a case report demonstrating significant symptomatic improvement and normalization of myometrial thickness following Unani treatment. A female patient who presented with lower abdominal pain, lower back pain, dysmenorrhea, and blood clot passage was diagnosed with an intramural fibroid (1.2 × 1.1 cm) in the posterior myometrium. She was treated with an Unani polyherbal formulation in capsule form, consisting of 50% hydro-alcoholic extracts of Karonda (Carissa carandas Linn), Khar-e-Khasak (Tribulus terrestris Linn), Mako (Solanum nigrum Linn), Beekh-e-Kasni (Cichorium intybus Linn), Bhumi Amla (Phyllanthus niruri Linn), and Chirayata Shireen (Swertia chirata Linn). The prescribed dosage included two (500 mg) capsules twice daily after meals, along with Majoon Dabeedul Ward (7 gm BD) with plain water for 90 days. The patient was clinically assessed every fortnight and underwent a radiological evaluation after treatment. The post-treatment ultrasonography results were highly encouraging, revealing complete resolution of the uterine fibroid without the need for surgery. The treatment proved to be highly effective, providing significant symptom relief without any observed side effects. This case study highlights the potential of Unani medicine as a successful, non-invasive approach to managing uterine fibroids.