Evaluation of Efficacy and Safety of Inkibab i Shabat (Steaming of Anethum graveolens) and Habbe Gule Aak in the Management of Fibromyalgia An Open Randomized Controlled Trial

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a syndrome characterized by chronic widespread musculoskeletal pain at multiple tender points. It is characterized by joints stiffness, systemic symptoms like mood disorders, fatigue, anxiety, cognitive dysfunction (Fibro Fogg) and insomnia. The prevalence of FM is about 1-2%.It is highly female dominant disease accounting for 80–96%.FM generally appears in between 30-35 years. A subjective feeling of swelling without objective oedema, paresthesia, cognitive disorders, dizziness and weakness are also frequent symptom of the disease. The exact cause and pathophysiology of FM is still unknown, several factors like, dysfunction of central and autonomic nervous system, neurotransmitters, genetic predisposition, environmental exposure, hormonal factor and psychiatric aspect have been implicated in triggering FM.

In Unani classical literature, no disease is mentioned as Fibromyalgia, however its common symptoms such as Body ache, Restlessness, Mood disorder, Sleep disturbance and gut disturbance etc. and their treatments have been elaborated. So, FM is considered as Marz e Ghair Mudawwan (disease not mentioned in Unani literature). In such diseases which are not mentioned in the original text treatment is chosen on the basis of sign and symptoms. Unani system of medicine consists of three types of treatment methods; Ilaj bil Tadbir wal Taghziya (Regimenal and Dieto-therapy), Ilaj bil Dawa (Pharmacotherapy) and Ilaj bil Yad’(Surgery). Ilaj bil Tadbir includes several nonpharmacological or least pharmacological modalities, one of which is Inkebab. Anethum graveolens used as Inkebab is useful in the treatment of musculoskeletal problems. It is a therapeutic herb, grown all over the world, Its extract has analgesic,anti-inflammatory and smooth muscle relaxant action. Habbe Gule Aak (Unani polyherbal pill) is useful in treating musculoskeletal diseases and chronic pain because of its anti-inflammatory and analgesic action. and Control group is subjected to Myofascial Release (MFR).