Kabedi

Indications

Sufuf Kabedi is a Unani herbal powder; "kabid" is the Unani word for the liver. It is traditionally used as a liver tonic for a weak or sluggish liver, loss of appetite, indigestion, a feeling of heaviness after meals, and as supportive care during recovery from jaundice. It contains a mixture of plant ingredients that Unani practitioners regard as liver strengthening. Scientific evidence for these uses is limited, and it must not replace medical diagnosis and treatment of liver disease.

How It Works

Several herbs used in Unani liver powders contain bitter substances and antioxidants. Bitter substances are thought to stimulate appetite and the flow of bile (a digestive fluid made by the liver), and antioxidants may help protect liver cells in laboratory studies. How the combination works in people has not been properly studied.

Dosage and Administration

Take as directed on the label or by a registered Unani practitioner, usually with water. Do not take more than the recommended amount and do not use it for long periods without advice.

Interactions

No specific interactions are well documented. People taking medicines that are processed by the liver or that can affect it, such as anti tuberculosis medicines, Paracetamol in high doses, Methotrexate or epilepsy medicines, should ask a doctor before adding herbal liver products. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines and herbal products you use.

Contraindications

• Allergy to any of the ingredients listed on the pack
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding, unless a practitioner advises it
• Children, unless a practitioner advises it

Side Effects

Side effects are not well recorded. Some people may have stomach upset, loose stools, nausea or allergic skin reactions.

Get urgent medical help if you notice yellowing of the skin or eyes that gets worse, dark urine, pale stools, swelling of the abdomen, confusion or unusual sleepiness, vomiting blood, black stools, or swelling of the face, lips or throat.

Pregnancy and Lactation

The safety of this preparation in pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established. Do not use it during these times unless a qualified practitioner advises it.

Precautions and Warnings

Jaundice (yellow skin or eyes) can be caused by hepatitis, gallstones and other serious conditions and always needs a doctor's assessment and blood tests. Do not stop prescribed liver treatment in favour of herbal products. Some herbal products may themselves harm the liver; stop using it and see a doctor if you feel worse. Use only registered products from a reliable source.

Overdose

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

Therapeutic Class

Unani herbal preparation (liver 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 to protect from moisture.