What Is Unani Medicine and How Does It Work?

Unani medicine is a traditional healing system that began thousands of years ago. It is based on the teachings of ancient Greek doctors like Hippocrates and Galen, and later improved by famous Arab and Persian scholars such as Avicenna (Ibn Sina). Today, Unani medicine is officially recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) and is an important part of India’s healthcare system under the Ministry of AYUSH. This shows its trustworthiness, safety, and long history of use.

At its core, Unani medicine believes in holistic wellness. This means it does not only treat symptoms but focuses on the whole body, mind, and lifestyle. The goal is to support the body’s natural self-healing power and help a person stay healthy for a long time.

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How Unani Medicine Works

Unani medicine works on the idea that good health comes from balance. When the body is balanced, a person feels well. When this balance is disturbed, illness appears.

The Four Humors (Akhlat)

According to Unani theory, the human body contains four main fluids called humors:

• Blood (Dam)

• Phlegm (Balgham)

• Yellow Bile (Safra)

• Black Bile (Sauda)

Each humor has a role in keeping the body healthy. When all four are present in the right amount and quality, the body stays strong. Disease happens when these humors become imbalanced or impure.

Temperament (Mizaj)

Every person has a unique temperament, known as Mizaj. It is decided by which humor is strongest in the body. There are four main types:

• Sanguine (hot and moist)

• Phlegmatic (cold and moist)

• Choleric (hot and dry)

• Melancholic (cold and dry)

Unani doctors design treatments based on a person’s temperament, age, lifestyle, and environment. This personalized approach makes Unani medicine gentle and effective.

Self-Healing Power (Tabiyat)

Unani strongly believes in the body’s natural healing force called Quwwat-e-Mudabbira-e-Badan. This power helps the body fight disease and restore balance. Unani treatments aim to support and strengthen this inner power rather than suppress it.

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Diagnosis and Treatment in Unani Medicine

Unani diagnosis is careful and highly observational. Doctors study the patient closely before starting treatment.

Common diagnostic methods include:

• Pulse examination (Nabz): Checking speed, rhythm, and strength of the pulse

• Examination of body waste: Studying urine (Baul) and stool (Baraz) to detect internal problems

After diagnosis, treatment follows four main methods:

1. Regimental Therapy (Ilaj-bit-Tadbeer)

This includes natural physical methods such as massage (Dalak), cupping (Hajamat), exercise, and steam or Turkish baths. These help remove toxins and improve blood flow.

2. Dietotherapy (Ilaj-bil-Ghiza)

Food is considered medicine in Unani. Doctors recommend specific diets to correct humoral imbalance and improve digestion.

3. Pharmacotherapy (Ilaj-bil-Dawa)

Medicines are made from herbs, minerals, and natural substances. Each medicine has its own temperament, chosen carefully to balance the disease.

4. Surgery (Jarahat)

Surgery is used only when necessary, such as for cataracts or stones.

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Key Applications of Unani Medicine

Unani medicine is especially helpful for chronic and lifestyle-related diseases, including:

• Skin problems like eczema, psoriasis, and vitiligo

• Joint and muscle pain, including arthritis

• Digestive and breathing issues like asthma, sinusitis, and indigestion

• Liver disorders and reproductive health problems

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Conclusion

Unani medicine is a time-tested, science-backed traditional system that focuses on balance, prevention, and natural healing. With its WHO recognition and integration into India’s AYUSH system, it continues to offer safe and effective care for modern health problems while respecting the wisdom of ancient medicine.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Unani Medicine

1. Is Unani medicine safe to use?
Yes, Unani medicine is generally safe when taken under the guidance of a qualified Unani doctor. It uses natural ingredients and focuses on balancing the body rather than giving strong chemicals. Since it is regulated in India by the Ministry of AYUSH, its practice follows approved safety standards.

2. How is Unani medicine different from Ayurveda?
Unani medicine is based on the theory of four humors and temperament, while Ayurveda works on the balance of three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Both systems are holistic, but their principles, diagnosis methods, and treatment approaches are different.

3. Can Unani medicine treat chronic diseases?
Yes, Unani medicine is widely used to manage chronic conditions such as arthritis, skin disorders, asthma, digestive problems, and hormonal imbalances. It focuses on improving lifestyle, diet, and immunity for long-term health benefits.

4. How long does Unani treatment take to show results?
The treatment time depends on the nature of the disease, its severity, and the patient’s temperament. Acute conditions may improve quickly, while chronic illnesses may need longer and consistent treatment.

5. Is Unani medicine recognized in India and worldwide?
Yes, Unani medicine is recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) and is officially practiced in India under the Ministry of AYUSH. Many countries across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe also acknowledge its therapeutic value.