Indications
Sharbat Deenar is a traditional Unani herbal syrup (sharbat means syrup) usually made with rhubarb root (rewand chini), chicory (kasni) and other herbs in a sugar base. It is traditionally used as a liver tonic: to improve appetite and digestion, ease mild constipation and bloating, and as supportive care during recovery from liver complaints such as mild jaundice. Scientific evidence for these uses is limited. It does not treat hepatitis, fatty liver disease, cirrhosis or gallstones, and jaundice always needs a doctor.
How It Works
Rhubarb root contains substances that have a mild laxative effect and may increase bile flow. Chicory is traditionally believed to support the liver and digestion and has mild diuretic (water-passing) effects. Together these herbs are meant to aid digestion and help clear waste through the bowel; how this affects the liver has not been well studied in people.
Dosage and Administration
Take as directed on the label or by a registered Unani practitioner, usually after meals. Measure each dose with the cup provided. Doses for children are as directed by a practitioner or doctor.
Interactions
Because of its laxative effect, it may reduce the absorption of other medicines; take it at least 2 hours apart from your other medicines. Loose stools can increase the risk of low potassium in people taking water tablets or Digoxin. The sugar base can affect blood sugar in people with diabetes. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines and herbal products you use.
Contraindications
- Pregnancy.
- Diarrhoea, dehydration or bowel blockage.
- Kidney stones or kidney disease, as rhubarb contains oxalate.
- Poorly controlled diabetes, unless a doctor advises it.
- Known allergy to any ingredient, including plants of the daisy family.
Side Effects
Possible side effects include loose stools, stomach cramps, gas and nausea. Urine may turn darker yellow or reddish, which can be due to rhubarb and is usually harmless.
Get urgent medical help if you notice worsening yellowing of the skin or eyes, very dark urine with pale stools, severe stomach pain, vomiting blood or black stools, confusion or unusual sleepiness, or swelling of the face, lips or throat with difficulty breathing.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Do not use during pregnancy, as rhubarb and other laxative herbs may stimulate the womb. There is not enough safety information for breastfeeding, so use it only after advice from a doctor.
Precautions and Warnings
Yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine or pain under the right ribs may be signs of hepatitis or other liver disease and need a doctor and blood tests. Do not use this syrup instead of medical care. People with diabetes should count its sugar content. Avoid alcohol if you have any liver problem.
Overdose
Taking too much may cause diarrhoea, stomach cramps and dehydration. Drink fluids and seek medical help if symptoms are severe or a large amount has been swallowed by a child.
Therapeutic Class
Unani herbal preparation (traditional liver tonic and digestive).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep the bottle tightly closed.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.