Pectoral

Indications

Sharbat Arzani is a Unani syrup (sharbat means syrup) made from a blend of traditional herbs in a sugar base. It is traditionally used to ease cough, chest congestion, hoarseness and throat irritation, and to help loosen and bring up phlegm during colds and mild chest complaints. The exact herbs vary between manufacturers, so check the label. Scientific evidence for these uses is limited, and it is not a treatment for pneumonia, asthma or other serious lung disease.

How It Works

Herbs used in Unani cough syrups usually have soothing (demulcent) effects that coat and calm an irritated throat, and expectorant effects that thin mucus so it is easier to cough up. The thick sugar syrup itself also soothes the throat and can reduce the urge to cough.

Dosage and Administration

Take by mouth as directed on the label or by a registered Unani practitioner, using the measuring cup or spoon supplied. Shake well before use if the label says so. For children, use only if the label gives a dose for their age, and do not give it more often than stated.

Interactions

Interactions are not well studied and depend on the herbs in the product. Avoid taking it together with other cough syrups unless advised. People taking diabetes medicines should remember that the syrup contains sugar. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines and herbal products you use.

Contraindications

• Allergy to any ingredient of the syrup.
• Poorly controlled diabetes, unless a doctor agrees, because of the sugar content.

Side Effects

It is usually well tolerated. Some people may have nausea, stomach upset, loose stools or an allergic reaction.

Get urgent medical help if there is swelling of the face, lips or throat, or difficulty breathing. Also see a doctor promptly if there is high fever, fast or difficult breathing, chest pain, coughing up blood, wheezing, or a cough lasting more than 2 weeks.

Pregnancy and Lactation

There is little safety information for herbal syrups during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Ask a doctor before use.

Precautions and Warnings

People with diabetes should count the sugar in each dose and check their blood sugar. A long-lasting cough can be a sign of tuberculosis, asthma or other illness and needs medical assessment. Brush teeth after night-time doses, as sugary syrups can harm teeth.

Overdose

Taking too much may cause stomach upset and, in people with diabetes, high blood sugar. Seek medical advice and take the bottle with you.

Therapeutic Class

Unani herbal syrup (cough and chest remedy)

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep the bottle tightly closed and follow the label for how long it can be used after opening.