Med Hypotheses. 2002 Oct; 59(4): 468-72.

Kushta(s): unique herbo-mineral preparations used in South Asian traditional medicine.

Aziz N, Gilani AH, Rindh MA.

Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, The Aga Khan University Medical College, Karachi, Pakistan.

Herbs and minerals are the integral parts of traditional systems of medicine in many countries. Kushta is a form of herbo-mineral preparations used in traditional systems of medicine (Unani and Ayurvedic) of Indo-Pak subcontinent. These preparations have long been used and claimed to be the most effective and potent dosage form. However, there are only few scientific studies carried out on these products because of several reasons mainly being the lack of communication among traditional healers, physicians and scientists. The objective of this paper is to fill this gap by translating the old concepts in modern understanding, providing possible explanation and hypotheses. Some recommendations have also been given to provide the path to initiate research in this area of potential therapeutic value and public concern.