Indications
Sufoof Joshanda is a Unani herbal powder used to make a hot herbal drink (joshanda means a decoction or brew). It is traditionally used to relieve the symptoms of common cold, flu like illness, cough, sore throat, runny or blocked nose, catarrh and mild fever. It usually contains plants such as jujube fruit, licorice root, violet flowers, borage, sebesten fruit and marshmallow. Scientific evidence for these uses is limited; it eases symptoms and does not cure infections.
How It Works
Several of the herbs contain mucilage, a gel like substance that coats and soothes an irritated throat. Licorice root has a soothing effect and helps loosen phlegm. Other ingredients are traditionally believed to reduce fever and congestion. Drinking a warm liquid also helps keep you hydrated and can ease a blocked nose.
Dosage and Administration
Use as directed on the label or by a registered Unani practitioner. Usually the powder is mixed with or brewed in hot water and drunk warm, sometimes with a little sugar or honey. Do not take more than the recommended amount and do not use it for more than about a week without advice. Honey must not be given to babies under one year of age.
Interactions
The licorice in this product, if taken in large amounts or for a long time, can lower potassium and raise blood pressure. This may interact with water tablets (diuretics) such as Furosemide or Hydrochlorothiazide, with Digoxin, with steroid medicines such as Prednisolone, and with blood pressure medicines. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines and herbal products you use.
Contraindications
- Allergy to any of the ingredients listed on the pack
- High blood pressure, heart failure or serious heart disease, unless a doctor advises it
- Kidney disease or low potassium levels
- Pregnancy
Side Effects
Short term use at the label dose is usually well tolerated. Some people may have stomach upset, loose stools or allergic reactions. Long or heavy use may cause swelling of the ankles, headache, raised blood pressure and muscle weakness because of the licorice.
Get urgent medical help if you have difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips or throat, a widespread rash, chest pain, very weak muscles, a high fever that does not settle, coughing up blood, or a cough with breathlessness.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Licorice is best avoided during pregnancy, as heavy use has been linked with harm to the baby and early birth. Ask a doctor before using this product while breastfeeding.
Precautions and Warnings
See a doctor if symptoms last more than a week, if fever is high, or if a child is unwell. People with diabetes should check whether sugar is added and avoid sweetening the drink. Do not use it in place of prescribed treatment for asthma or other lung disease. For children, use only on a practitioner’s advice.
Overdose
Taking a large amount at once is unlikely to be dangerous, but repeated high doses can lower potassium and raise blood pressure. If you notice weakness, palpitations or swelling, stop the product and see a doctor. If a child has swallowed a large amount, contact a doctor.
Therapeutic Class
Unani herbal preparation (remedy for cough and cold).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep the sachet or container tightly closed to protect from moisture.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.