Nervent

Indications

This is a Unani compound preparation whose main ingredient is Jadwar, the root of Delphinium denudatum, combined with Saffron (Crocus sativus) and Henbane (Hyoscyamus niger), usually with other herbs. In Unani medicine such preparations are traditionally used as nerve and heart tonics, for nervous weakness, palpitations and anxiety, and for male sexual weakness. Scientific evidence for these uses is limited. Both Jadwar and especially Henbane are potent plants that can be poisonous, so this product must be used with great caution and only as directed.

How It Works

Henbane contains hyoscyamine and hyoscine (scopolamine), which block acetylcholine, a nerve messenger; this causes calming, drying and antispasmodic effects but also many side effects. Jadwar root contains alkaloids that act on the nervous system and is traditionally regarded as calming. Saffron contains crocin and safranal, which may have mild mood lifting effects.

Dosage and Administration

Use only as directed on the label or by a registered Unani practitioner. Never exceed the stated dose and do not use for long periods without supervision.

Interactions

• Other anticholinergic medicines, such as Amitriptyline, Chlorpheniramine, Promethazine, Oxybutynin, Hyoscine butylbromide or Trihexyphenidyl, may add to its side effects (dry mouth, constipation, urine retention, confusion, fast heartbeat).
• It may add to the effect of sedatives, sleeping pills and alcohol.
• It may change the effect of heart medicines and medicines for dementia such as Donepezil.
• Saffron in medicinal amounts may add to the effect of blood thinners such as Warfarin and blood pressure medicines.
• Tell your doctor about all medicines you take.

Contraindications

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding.
• Children.
• Glaucoma (raised eye pressure), enlarged prostate or difficulty passing urine, bowel obstruction or severe constipation.
• Fast or irregular heartbeat, serious heart disease, myasthenia gravis.
• Allergy to any ingredient.

Side Effects

Possible effects include dry mouth, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, constipation, difficulty passing urine, flushing, fast heartbeat, dizziness and drowsiness.

Get urgent medical help if you have confusion, hallucinations, severe agitation, very fast or irregular heartbeat, inability to pass urine, eye pain with blurred vision, high temperature with hot dry skin, fits, or signs of a serious allergic reaction.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Do not use during pregnancy: Saffron in medicinal amounts can stimulate the womb, and Henbane and Jadwar alkaloids may harm the baby. Do not use while breastfeeding, as Henbane alkaloids can pass into milk and reduce milk supply.

Precautions and Warnings

• Do not drive or use machines if you have blurred vision, dizziness or drowsiness.
• Older people are more sensitive to confusion and urine retention.
• Avoid overheating in hot weather, as sweating may be reduced.
• Palpitations and male sexual problems may have medical causes; see a doctor.

Overdose

Overdose is dangerous. Signs include very dry mouth, dilated pupils, hot flushed dry skin, fast heartbeat, high temperature, confusion, hallucinations, fits and coma. Seek emergency medical help straight away and take the pack with you.

Therapeutic Class

Unani herbal preparation (potent nerve and heart tonic).

Storage

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