Jowrish Kamuni

Indications

Jowarish Kamuni is a Unani jawarish, a sweet, semi solid herbal digestive paste. Its main ingredient is kamun, which is cumin seed, combined with other spices such as black pepper, ginger and rue in a sugar or honey base. It is traditionally used for indigestion, wind and bloating, colicky stomach pain, loss of appetite, a weak or cold stomach and mild loose stools. Scientific evidence for these uses is limited.

How It Works

Cumin and the other spices contain aromatic oils that are thought to stimulate the flow of digestive juices, relax the muscles of the gut and help release trapped wind. Cumin may also have a mild effect against some gut microbes in laboratory studies. 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. If indigestion or loose stools continue for more than two weeks, see a doctor.

Interactions

No important interactions are well documented at usual amounts. Large amounts of cumin may lower blood sugar and slightly slow blood clotting, so take advice if you use diabetes medicines or blood thinners such as Warfarin. The sugar base may affect blood sugar control. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines and herbal products you use.

Contraindications

• Allergy to cumin or any ingredient listed on the pack
• Poorly controlled diabetes, unless a doctor advises it
• Pregnancy, unless a practitioner advises it, especially if the product contains rue

Side Effects

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

Get urgent medical help if you notice swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing, a widespread rash, vomiting blood, black stools, severe stomach pain, or diarrhoea with blood or signs of dehydration such as very little urine and dizziness.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Cumin in food amounts is safe in pregnancy, but some jawarish formulas contain rue, which can stimulate the womb. Do not use this product while pregnant unless a qualified practitioner advises it. Ask a doctor before use while breastfeeding.

Precautions and Warnings

Ongoing indigestion, difficulty swallowing, weight loss, vomiting or black stools need a doctor's check. For diarrhoea, drink plenty of fluids and use oral rehydration salts; see a doctor if it is severe or lasts more than two days. People with diabetes should note the sugar content.

Overdose

Taking too much may cause stomach upset or heartburn. If someone has taken much more than the recommended amount, or a child has eaten a large amount, contact a doctor or go to the nearest hospital and take the pack with you.

Therapeutic Class

Unani herbal preparation (digestive and carminative).

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.