Aab-e Hayat

Herbal
Indications

Aab-e Hayat is a traditional Unani polyherbal preparation used for:

  • Headache
  • Toothache
  • Catarrh (nasal and chest congestion)
  • Indigestion, flatulence, bloating, and gastritis
  • Vomiting and diarrhea related to digestive upset
  • Anorexia (loss of appetite)

These uses are based on the properties of its herbal ingredients, which act as carminatives, mild analgesics, expectorants, and digestive tonics.

Dosage & Administration
  • Adults: 2–4 drops, 3–4 times daily, preferably after meals.
  • Children: 1–2 drops, 2–3 times daily under supervision.
  • Route: Oral.
  • Duration: Short-term use as needed, or as advised by a qualified herbal practitioner.
  • Special Groups:
    • Elderly: Use with caution; start with the lowest dose.
    • Pregnancy/Lactation: Avoid unless specifically prescribed.
    • Renal/Hepatic Impairment: Use cautiously due to essential oil metabolism.

Instructions: Shake well before use. Do not exceed recommended dosage.

Composition

Composition (per 5 mL Aqua Extract)

1.      Cinnamomum camphora: 1.615 g

2.      Trachyspermum ammi: 0.807 g

3.      Mentha piperita: 0.404 g

4.      Oil-Eucalyptus: 0.519 mL

5.      Pinus longifolia: 0.259 mL

6.      Carum carvi: 0.259 mL

7.      Pimpinella anisum: 0.192 mL

8.      Zingiber officinale: 0.192 mL

Mechanism of Action (MOA)

Aab-e Hayat works through a blend of natural phytochemicals:

  • Cinnamomum camphora and eucalyptus oil provide mild local analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and decongestant effects by stimulating mucosal secretions and easing nasal congestion.
  • Mentha piperita soothes digestive spasms and adds mild cooling analgesia for headaches or toothaches.
  • Trachyspermum ammi, Carum carvi, Pimpinella anisum, and Zingiber officinale act as carminatives, reducing gas formation, improving motility, and calming digestive discomfort.
  • Pinus longifolia supports mild antiseptic and expectorant activity.
    Together, these actions help relieve mild pain, clear nasal passages, settle the stomach, and improve appetite.
Pharmacokinetics
  • Absorption: Active essential oils are well absorbed after oral intake.
  • Distribution: Rapidly distributed throughout mucosal tissues.
  • Metabolism: Mainly hepatic, involving cytochrome P450 enzymes; key oils like camphor and eucalyptol are metabolized in the liver.
  • Excretion: Primarily via the kidneys; some volatile components may be exhaled.
  • Onset & Half-life: Symptomatic relief typically within 30–60 minutes; most volatile oil components have short plasma half-lives (1–4 hours).
Pregnancy Category & Lactation
  • Pregnancy: Not assigned a specific category; oral use of camphor and eucalyptus is not recommended due to potential neurotoxic and uterotonic risks if overdosed.
  • Lactation: Safety not established; some essential oils may pass into breast milk. Use only under professional advice.
Therapeutic Class
  • Primary Class: Polyherbal Digestive & Respiratory Tonic
  • Subclass: Carminative and Mild Analgesic/Expectorant
Contraindications
  • Known allergy or hypersensitivity to any ingredients.
  • Infants and very young children (risk of camphor toxicity).
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding without medical supervision.
  • Severe liver disease.
Warnings & Precautions
  • High-risk patients: Infants, pregnant women, lactating mothers, elderly with multiple comorbidities.
  • Serious risks: Camphor or eucalyptus oil overdose may cause CNS toxicity, including seizures or respiratory depression.
  • Monitoring: Watch for signs of allergy, jaundice, or unusual drowsiness.
  • Immediate care: Seek medical attention for rash, breathing difficulty, severe nausea, or confusion.
Side Effects
  • Mild stomach upset or heartburn.
  • Allergic reactions (rash, itching, nasal irritation).
  • Rare CNS effects (dizziness, drowsiness) if overdosed.
  • Possible mild liver enzyme elevation with prolonged or excessive use.
Drug Interactions
  • May interact with other sedatives or CNS depressants.
  • Possible modification of CYP450 enzyme activity, affecting other medications metabolized by the liver.
  • Ginger component may mildly enhance the effect of anticoagulants.
  • Avoid combining with other strong essential oils to prevent cumulative toxicity.
Storage Conditions
  • Store below 25 °C in a dry place, protected from light and moisture.
  • Keep bottle tightly closed.
  • Do not freeze.
  • Shake well before each use.
  • Keep out of reach of children.