Unani

Unani is one of the ancient system of medicine in the world. It is the alternative medicine that derives its name from Greek word 'Ionia'. Unani system of medicine originated in Greece, is based on the principles propounded by Galen, Hippocrates and Avicenna. It is still practiced in Indian sub continent and other parts of the world. The practices and theories of the Unani system of medicine are quite similar to that of Ayurveda. It has now become the integral part of the Indian system of medicine. In India, there are about hundred of Unani Medical Colleges and Institutes where Unani is taught.

Unani gave birth to the new theory of science according to which disease in a body was a natural process and that symptoms were the reactions of the body to the disease. The study of Unani is based on the four humours namely :- Phlegm (Balgham), Blood (Dam), Yellow bile (Safra), and Black Bile (Sauda).

The identification of diseases in Unani system of medicine is through examination of pulse, urine and stool. Unani detect the influence of environment and ecological conditions such as air, food, drinks, body movement, psychic movement, excretion and retention on the state of health.Each individual's unique mixture of these substances ascertain his temperament : predominance of blood gives a sanguine temperament, a predominance of phlegm makes one phlegmatic, black bile – melancholic and yellow bile bilious. Any sort of imbalance in these substances can cause disease in the human body otherwise he remains healthy.

Unani Treatment :

Regimental Therapy : the regimental therapy includes procedures like venesection, cupping, diaphoresis, cauterisation, diuresis, turkish bath, puging, emesis, exercise and leeching. All these theories are based on the specific body reflexes, through various massages. But in the several musculoskeletal problems like back pain and arthritis, application of cold, heat or suction cups is also done. In rare cases, some of the serious diseases are treated by puncturing certain reflex points, in this whole process few drops of blood are released.

Dietotherapy : Dietotherapy deals with certain diseases by modulating and administering the quantity and quality of food.

Pharmacotherapy : Pharmacotherapy deals with the administration of naturally occurring drugs mostly herbal drugs derived from the plant and mineral sources.

Aparana Chauhan