Medicinal importance of lavandula stoechas in unani system of medicine: a review

ABSTRACT

Lavandula stoechas also called Arabian or French Lavender, Ustukhuddus, or Jaroob-e-dimagh, belongs to the Family Lamiaceae/Labiatae. It is a fragrant herb 0.6 to 0.9 m high, native of Mediterranean region, reported to be imported in Bombay and grown in gardens of India. Nowadays it is also cultivated in other tropical areas of the world. In Unani system of medicine, whole herb or its flowers alone are used medicinally as described in ancient Unani literature. The plant is claimed to remove obstructions, strengthen brain activity, expel brain crudities and improve the intellect. It is regarded as a good stimulant, aromatic, general carminative, diaphoretic, expectorant, antispasmodic and emmenagogue. The oil from the flower is considered useful in colic and chest affections and to relieve biliousness and nervous headache. It is also used as moth repellant. Its flowers are used in medicated pillows or cushions, herb sachets, and medicated powders. This medicinal plant is used in various Unani preparations