Jowrish Bisbasa

Indications

Jowarish Bisbasa is a Unani jawarish, a sweet, semi solid herbal digestive paste. Its main ingredient is bisbasa, the dried lacy covering (aril) of the nutmeg seed, better known as mace, combined with other warming spices in a sugar or honey base. It is traditionally used for indigestion, a weak or sluggish stomach, loss of appetite, wind, bloating and mild stomach cramps. Scientific evidence for these uses is limited.

How It Works

Mace and the other spices contain aromatic oils that are thought to stimulate the flow of stomach juices, relax the muscles of the gut and help release trapped wind. In Unani theory the preparation warms and strengthens the stomach. How well it works in people has not been properly studied.

Dosage and Administration

Take as directed on the label or by a registered Unani practitioner, usually after meals. Do not take more than the recommended amount. Mace contains myristicin, which is harmful in large amounts, so keep to the label dose. If indigestion continues for more than two weeks, see a doctor.

Interactions

No important interactions are well documented at usual amounts. Large amounts of nutmeg or mace may add to the effects of sedatives and of medicines that act on the brain. Because it contains sugar, it may affect blood sugar control in people taking diabetes medicines. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines and herbal products you use.

Contraindications

• Allergy to mace, nutmeg or any ingredient listed on the pack
• Poorly controlled diabetes, unless a doctor advises it
• Pregnancy, unless a practitioner advises it

Side Effects

At the label dose side effects are uncommon. Some people may have heartburn, a feeling of heat, nausea or allergic reactions.

Get urgent medical help if you notice swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing, a fast heartbeat, confusion or hallucinations, vomiting blood, black stools, or severe stomach pain.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Large amounts of mace and nutmeg should be avoided in pregnancy. Do not use this product while pregnant unless a qualified practitioner advises it. Small food like amounts are generally considered acceptable while breastfeeding, but ask a doctor first.

Precautions and Warnings

Ongoing indigestion, difficulty swallowing, weight loss, vomiting or black stools need a doctor's check. People with diabetes should note the sugar content. Keep out of reach of children, as they may eat the sweet paste.

Overdose

Large amounts of mace can cause dizziness, a fast heartbeat, nausea, confusion and hallucinations. If someone has taken much more than the recommended amount, or a child has eaten the product, go to the nearest hospital and take the pack with you.

Therapeutic Class

Unani herbal preparation (digestive and stomach tonic).

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep the container tightly closed and use a clean dry spoon.