Analytical review of Tiryāq-i-Wabāī – A Unani panacea for the control of COVID-19.

COVID-19 has affected the whole world drastically and led to a substantial loss of human life. Relentless research is underway to identify effective treatment to control the disease. Traditional systems are also being explored to search for a potent drug. Unani formulation ' Tiryāq-i-Wabāī' has long been used in cholera, plague and other epidemic diseases. This review is aimed at analysing the possible role of Tiryāq-i-Wabāī in the prevention and control of COVID-19. Unani classical texts and Pharmacopoeias available in the library of Regional Research Institute of Unani Medicine, Chennai were reviewed to collect information related to epidemics, commonly prescribed drugs during epidemics, and therapeutic uses of Tiryāq-i-Wabāī ingredients. ScienceDirect, Springer, PubMed and Google Scholar were searched to collect information regarding current pandemic and pharmacological activities of ingredients and phytoconstituents present in the formulation. The collected data was analyzed and interpreted. Tiryāq-i-Wabāī was found to be the most recommended prophylactic and curative drug during epidemics. The formulation ingredients, Sibr (Aloe vera (L.) Burm.f.), Murr Makki (Commiphora myrrha (T.Nees) Engl.) and Zāfrān (Crocus sativus L.) are categorized under Tiryāqi Advia (literally – antidote drugs) and are considered to be very effective in SARS related conditions. These ingredients have been reported to exhibit immunomodulatory, antioxidant, antiviral, antibacterial, antitussive, smooth muscle relaxant, antipyretic and anti-inflammatory activities corroborating the traditional use of Tiryāq-i-Wabāī. Scientific data imply great potential and utility of the formulation which could be a possible alternative approach for the prevention and control of current and future pandemics. • COVID-19 has become a global health menace with catastrophic social and economic consequences. • Intensive researches are underway to develop decisive treatment to control the diseases. • Unani medicine may play a major role in protecting, reducing disease burden and improving overall well-being of humanity. • Tiryāq-i-Wabāī has been widely used as prophylactic and curative drug during cholera, plague and other epidemic diseases. • Tiryāq-i-Wabāī may prove beneficial in augmenting immune resilience and protecting individuals from infection during pandemics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]