CAL-G

Indications

Qushta Baiza (Kushta Baiza Murgh) is a Unani preparation made by calcining (burning at high heat into a fine ash) hen's eggshells. The result is mainly calcium in a powdered form. It is traditionally used as a calcium supplement for weak bones and teeth, for calcium needs in growing children, pregnancy and old age, and for general weakness. It is also traditionally used for excess white vaginal discharge (leucorrhoea) and acidity. Scientific evidence for these uses is limited.

How It Works

Eggshell is made almost entirely of calcium carbonate. After calcination it becomes a calcium-rich ash. Calcium is needed for strong bones and teeth, for muscle and nerve function and for blood clotting. Like other calcium salts, it can also neutralise stomach acid. How much calcium each dose provides depends on the product, so check the label.

Dosage and Administration

Take as directed on the label or by a registered Unani practitioner, usually after meals with water or milk. Do not take more than recommended. Children, pregnant women and older people should use it only on a practitioner's or doctor's advice.

Interactions

• Calcium can reduce the absorption of Tetracycline, Doxycycline, Ciprofloxacin, Levothyroxine, iron supplements and Alendronate. Keep at least 2 hours between them (4 hours for some antibiotics and Levothyroxine).
• With thiazide water tablets such as Hydrochlorothiazide, calcium levels may rise too high.
• High calcium levels can increase the risk of heart rhythm problems with Digoxin.
• Do not combine with other calcium supplements unless advised.

Contraindications

• High blood calcium (hypercalcaemia) or high urine calcium.
• Calcium-containing kidney stones.
• Severe kidney disease.
• Allergy to egg or any ingredient.

Side Effects

Possible side effects include constipation, wind, bloating and stomach upset.

Get urgent medical help if you have signs of very high calcium, such as severe thirst, passing a lot of urine, confusion, nausea and vomiting, severe weakness or an irregular heartbeat, or signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Calcium needs rise in pregnancy and breastfeeding, but the safety of this traditional preparation has not been tested. Prefer standard calcium supplements, and use this product only on a doctor's advice.

Precautions and Warnings

• Some traditional calcined (kushta) preparations have been found to contain heavy metals. Buy only from trusted, licensed makers.
• Bone thinning (osteoporosis) and rickets also need vitamin D and medical assessment.
• Unusual vaginal discharge with itching, smell or pain may be an infection and should be checked by a doctor.
• Use with care if you have kidney problems.

Overdose

Taking too much may raise blood calcium, causing nausea, vomiting, constipation, thirst, confusion and, in severe cases, kidney or heart problems. Seek medical help if a large amount is taken.

Therapeutic Class

Unani mineral preparation (calcium supplement).

Storage

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