Traditional Unani and Contemporary Outlook of Filfil daraz (Piper longum</I L.) – A Comprehensive Review

The spectacular thrust and inquisitiveness of the present-day world have resulted in an incredible scientific approach regarding herbal medicine potential. The importance of herbal medicine has witnessed a tremendous expansion because of its significant effective and safe medications, especially in chronic and long-standing ailments. Filfil daraz (Piper longum L.) or long pepper, is a herb with enormous therapeutic benefits. Its beneficial actions are Hāḍim (digestive), Muqawwī-i-Miʻda (stomachic), and Kāsir-i- Riyāḥ (carminative). Since ages, Unani physicians used this herb for several disorders like Balghamī khansi (Phlegmatic cough), Fālij (Paralysis), Laqwa (Facial palsy), Mirgi (Epilepsy), Niqris (Gout), ‘Irq al-Nasā (Sciatica), and Qūlanj (Colitis) etc. Literature survey revealed countless important phytoconstituents namely alkaloids such as piperine, volatile oil, esters and resins. Moreover, many plant parts have shown distinct activities like analgesic, anti-microbial, anti-fungal, immunomodulatory activities in quite a lot of in-vivo and in-vitro studies. The present review delivers a comprehensive description of Piper longum L., its ethnobotanical uses, and recent scientific studies. New research avenues are open for future research endeavours for phytochemical studies and preclinical and clinical trials to explore its medicinal importance.