Bastar Ointment: A Promising Herbal Medicine in Dermatology.

Introduction and Aim: Bastar ointment is a widely used medicinal product in the Tirana Highlands and beyond. It is composed of a blend of several herbs known for their medicinal properties, along with meat by-products. This precise combination results in an ointment that effectively treats various types of wounds, including burns, infected wounds, deep lacerations, and scratches. The aim of this study is to investigate how this popular medicine influences the treatment of various wounds, referencing the research conducted by the respective authors for each plant. Materials and Methods: A total of 513 cases were included in the study. Participants who responded to the questionnaire varied in age and had different types of wounds. Additionally, they were not exclusively from the Tirana highlands. The responses included information on the care provided, the duration of treatment, any combinations with other herbs, as well as any side effects or allergies experienced. Results: The average time for wound healing is approximately 12 days, with burns accounting for 32% of the cases. Fortunately, no allergic reactions were observed, and the medication was administered twice daily in 63% of cases. Conclusions: Bastar Ointment has demonstrated positive effects on wound healing, thereby confirming the pharmacological properties of this traditional folk medicine. The findings indicate its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antinociceptive, antioxidant, and anticarcinogenic effects, as well as its content of essential vitamins and beneficial fats. Given its diverse range of biological activities, Bastar Ointment can be regarded as a medicine with valuable and intriguing properties.