Majoon-e-Baladur in the therapeutic management of Falij (paralysis): A review integrating Unani medicine and modern pharmacology

Afeefa Masha H.A.*, Joonus A.F.M. and Farzana M.U.Z.N.

Abstract

Falij (paralysis) is a debilitating neurological disorder characterized by loss of motor and sensory functions and represents a major global health burden. In Unani medicine, Falij is primarily attributed to Balghami Ghair-Taba‘i Madda, leading to obstruction (Sudda) in neural pathways and impairment of Rooh-e-Muharrik and Rooh-eHassas. Majoon-e-Baladur, a classical polyherbal formulation, is traditionally used to restore nerve function, purify the brain, reduce inflammation, and enhance neuromuscular activity. This review aims to evaluate the therapeutic management of Falij using the classical Unani formulation Majoon-e-Baladur by integrating traditional concepts with modern pharmacological evidence.

This narrative review analyzed classical Unani texts and contemporary scientific literature retrieved from PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar between 2000 and 2025 combining terms such as "Majoon-e-Baladur," "Falij," "paralysis," and individual herb names. Key ingredients, including Semecarpus anacardium, Withania somnifera, Anacyclus pyrethrum, Sesamum indicum, Zingiber officinale, Prunus amygdalus, and Crocus sativus, demonstrated multi-target pharmacological actions. The findings indicate that Majoon-eBaladur possesses neuroprotective, antioxidant, antiinflammatory, nervine tonic, circulatory enhancing, and immunomodulatory properties. These actions collectively address the underlying pathophysiology of Falij as described in Unani medicine. The review concludes that Majoon-e-Baladur represents a rational, multi-targeted therapeutic option for paralysis, warranting further experimental and clinical validation.