Traditional Roghan-e-Kharateen Recipe: Preparation and Uses
Introduction
Nowadays, many people experience muscle weakness, joint discomfort, calf muscle pain, stiffness, and body aches due to sedentary lifestyles, physical exertion, ageing, sports injuries, or long working hours. These conditions can affect mobility, reduce physical performance, and make everyday activities uncomfortable.
In traditional Unani medicine, such complaints are described in relation to imbalances in the body’s humors (Akhlat), weakness of muscles and nerves, and disturbances affecting the body’s natural strength and function. Unani physicians have developed various traditional Nuske (remedies) and medicated oils to support physical strength, joint flexibility, and overall well-being through natural approaches.
Among these classical Nuske, Roghan-e-Kharateen (Earthworm Oil) is a traditional Unani medicated oil valued for its external application and massage practices. It has been traditionally used to support muscles, joints, and soft tissues as part of Unani therapeutic methods.
Table of Contents
In Unani medicine, such complaints are traditionally associated with disturbances in the body’s humoral balance and weakness of the muscles, nerves, or joints. Classical Unani Ultimate physicians developed a variety of herbal and medicated oils to support the body’s natural functions through external application and massage.
Roghan-e-kharateen
- Collect five earthworms (Kharateen) from clean, uncontaminated soil.
- Take 200 ml of olive oil or Roghan-e-Kunjad (sesame oil) in a clean pan.
- Heat the oil over a low flame.
- Add the earthworms to the warm oil and continue heating gently.
- Allow the earthworms to gradually break down and dissolve into the oil during the traditional preparation process.
- Avoid overheating or burning the oil.
- Once the process is complete, remove the pan from the heat and allow the oil to cool.
- Strain the oil through a fine cloth or filter to remove any remaining solid particles.
- Transfer the filtered oil into a clean, dry, airtight glass bottle and store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
How to Apply Roghan-e-Kharateen
In traditional Unani medicine, Roghan-e-Kharateen is primarily used as a massage oil. Gentle massage is believed to help the oil spread evenly over the skin, allowing the affected muscles and joints to benefit from the traditional properties of the formulation. Regular massage has long been an important part of Unani therapy, not only for supporting muscle and joint health but also for promoting relaxation and improving overall physical comfort.
For the best traditional results, the oil is typically applied to clean, dry skin and massaged gently until it is absorbed. Consistent application, as traditionally recommended by a qualified Unani practitioner Hakims , is considered an important part of the therapy.
- Take a small amount of Roghan-e-Kharateen and gently massage it onto the affected area for 5–10 minutes until absorbed.
- Apply once or twice daily, preferably after a warm bath or before bedtime, for traditional use.
- For external use only. Avoid applying to broken or irritated skin, and discontinue use if irritation occurs.
precautions
Roghan-e-Kharateen is for external use only and should not be ingested. Avoid applying it to the eyes, mouth, broken, infected, or irritated skin. Before first use, perform a small patch test to check for any skin sensitivity. If redness, itching, or irritation develops, discontinue use and seek medical advice. Store the oil in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and keep it out of the reach of children. Pregnant or breastfeeding women, as well as individuals with underlying medical conditions, should consult a qualified healthcare professional before using this traditional formulation.
Important Note
This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only and is based on traditional Unani medicine. Roghan-e-Kharateen is a classical Unani formulation, and the information presented here should not be considered medical advice or a substitute for professional healthcare. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional or licensed Unani practitioner before using any traditional remedy, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have a medical condition, or are taking prescription medications.
