Abhal (Juniperus communis L.): Beneficial Drug for Urogenital System - A Review

摘要

Abhal (Juniperus communis L.) belonging to the family Cupressaceae is an evergreen, aromatic shrub, native to Europe, South Asia, and North America and used as medicine since 70 AD when Dioscorides introduced It first. The blackish red berry like fruits are known as Abhal in Unani System of Medicine. It is mainly used as diuretic, lithotriptic, anti-inflammatory, emmenagogue, demulcent, mild astringent, and anthelmintic. Juniperus communis L. contains volatile oils, acids, flavonoids, tannins and many more compounds. The diuretic effect of juniper is thought to be due to sesquiterpene hydrocarbons present in it. Various pharmacological studies on Juniperus communis L. exhibit e.g. diuretic, carminative, stimulant and abortifacient properties as well as direct effect on smooth muscle contraction.