Efficacy of Qurse Ziabetas Khas and Habb-e-Asab in the Management of Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy: A Case Series

Abstract

Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy (DPN) is a prevalent complication of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), typically managed symptomatically owing to a lack of curative therapies. The Unani System of Medicine offers holistic management strategies aligned with Akhlat (~humoral) balance and detoxification. This case series assessed the efficacy of two classical Unani formulations, Qurse Ziabetus Khas (QZK) and Habb-e-Asab (HA), in DPN patients. Three male patients, aged 52–59 years, diagnosed with T2DM and DPN symptoms, were included. Each patient had experienced tingling, numbness, and burning pain in the lower extremities. The intervention involved oral administration of QZK (2 g) and HA (500 mg) twice daily for 56 days alongside conventional medicines. Clinical evaluation included the Toronto Clinical Neuropathy Score; Vibration Perception Threshold (VPT); Visual Analogue Scale for pain, burning sensation, and numbness with HbA1c levels; and WHOQOL-BREF for quality of life. Post-treatment, two patients showed marked reductions in VPT values, and all three patients reported decreased pain intensity (VAS scores decreased from 8–9/10 to 3–6/10). The WHOQOL-BREF scores improved in all the patients (40–47 to 55–71). HbA1c levels decreased, indicating improved glycemic control. No adverse events were reported. QZK and HA have demonstrated promising results in alleviating neuropathic symptoms, improving glycemic control, and enhancing the quality of life in patients. These findings support Unani pharmacotherapy as a complementary approach for the management of DPN. Larger controlled trials are needed to confirm these observations and to establish standardized treatment protocols.