Apicap

Indications

Qurs Pudina is a Unani tablet made mainly from mint (pudina) and its oil, often with other digestive herbs. It is traditionally used for indigestion, wind and bloating, nausea, mild stomach cramps and loss of appetite. Scientific evidence supports peppermint oil for some digestive symptoms, but evidence for this traditional tablet is limited.

How It Works

Mint contains menthol and other aromatic oils. Menthol relaxes the smooth muscle of the stomach and intestines, which can ease cramps and help trapped gas pass (a carminative effect). Mint also has a mild soothing effect on nausea and may stimulate the flow of bile, which helps digest fats.

Dosage and Administration

Take by mouth as directed on the label or by a registered Unani practitioner, usually after meals with water. Do not exceed the stated dose. See a doctor if symptoms last more than 2 weeks.

Interactions

• Antacids and acid reducing medicines (such as Omeprazole or Famotidine) may change how mint is released in the gut and increase heartburn.
• Peppermint oil may raise levels of Cyclosporine and some other medicines broken down by the liver; tell your doctor about regular medicines.

Contraindications

Do not use if allergic to mint or menthol. Avoid if you have severe acid reflux or a hiatus hernia, gallstones or blocked bile ducts, or serious liver disease, unless a doctor advises it. Do not give to infants or young children.

Side Effects

Usually well tolerated. Possible effects include heartburn, a burning feeling in the mouth or stomach, and nausea. Rarely, allergic reactions can occur.

Get urgent medical help if you have severe or persistent stomach pain, vomiting blood, black stools, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Mint in food amounts is considered safe. There is limited information about medicinal amounts in pregnancy and breastfeeding; ask a doctor before use. High doses of peppermint oil may reduce milk supply.

Precautions and Warnings

• See a doctor if indigestion is new after age 50, or comes with weight loss, difficulty swallowing, vomiting, black stools or anaemia.
• Stop if heartburn gets worse.
• Keep away from children, as menthol can cause breathing problems in infants.

Overdose

Too much may cause stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, drowsiness or dizziness. Get medical help if a large amount has been taken, especially by a child.

Therapeutic Class

Unani herbal preparation (carminative and digestive).

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.