Introduction

Anzarut, known in Hindi as Lai Sarcocolla or sarcocolla gum, is a valuable medicinal substance widely used in traditional Unani medicine. It is obtained from the sap of a thorny plant and has long been recognized for its effectiveness in treating eye conditions, wounds, and various skin disorders.

Origin and Nature

Anzarut is the natural gum or sap extracted from a thorny shrub that typically grows up to one meter in height. The plant has leaves resembling those of yam plants, while its flowers are small and yellow in color.

The sap is collected from different parts of the plant and varies in quality depending on its exposure to sunlight:

• Anzarut Gosht: This sap is obtained from the shaded parts of the plant where sunlight exposure is minimal. It is considered superior in quality.
• Anzarut Gosht Khat: This type is exposed to sunlight and turns reddish in color. It is comparatively less preferred.

In general, the best quality Anzarut is slightly white with a taste that is both mildly sweet and bitter, although the gum is primarily known for its strong, bitter flavor.

Temperament (Mizaj)

According to Unani medicine, Anzarut has a hot and dry temperament in the second degree, making it effective for reducing excess moisture and phlegm in the body.

Medicinal Actions

Anzarut possesses several important therapeutic properties:

• Drying agent (Mujaff) – helps remove excess moisture
• Phlegm reducer (Muqal phlegm)
• Detergent and cleansing action
• Resolvent (Mughri Mahalal) – helps dissolve swellings
• Expels intestinal worms (Munqi Mukhtar Dedan Shakm)

Health Benefits and Uses

Ear Disorders

Anzarut is commonly used to relieve earaches. A traditional method involves mixing it with honey, soaking a cloth in the mixture, and placing it in the ear for soothing relief.

Eye Conditions

It is widely used in eye medicines for conditions such as the following:

• Conjunctivitis
• Eye infections
• Whitening or opacity of the eye

Skin Diseases

Anzarut is beneficial in treating various skin problems, including:

• Scabies
• Skin blemishes
• Chronic skin infections

It helps cleanse the skin and promotes healing.

Wound Healing

One of its most notable uses is in wound care. It effectively cleans wounds, dries excess moisture, and promotes faster healing. It also helps in removing harmful organisms or insects from affected areas.

Internal Uses

Anzarut is also used to expel intestinal worms and reduce internal impurities when used in proper formulations.

Special Benefits

• Dries excessive moisture from wounds
• Promotes faster healing of ulcers and injuries
• Enhances the effectiveness of other medicines when used in combination

Precautions

Anzarut should not be used alone due to its strong potency. It is best used in combination with other medicines. If taken alone, it is recommended to consume it with ten times the amount of almond oil to reduce its harsh effects.

Dosage

The recommended dosage ranges from one-third of a mash to one mash, depending on the condition and formulation.

Common Preparations

Anzarut is used in various traditional formulations, including:

• Honey-based ointments
• Zamani ointment (mentioned in classical treatments)
• Decoctions used in chronic diseases such as tuberculosis
• Sleep-inducing suppositories