Background Chronic insomnia is a prevalent sleep disorder associated with impaired daytime functioning and reduced quality of life. Although conventional hypnotic medications may provide symptomatic relief, their long-term use is often limited by adverse effects, tolerance, dependence, and recurrence of symptoms after discontinuation. Pāshoya (herbal footbath), a traditional Unāni regimenal therapy, has historically been used for insomnia; however, published clinical evidence remains limited. Case Presentation A 36-year-old male presented with a one-year history of chronic insomnia characterized by difficulty initiating and maintaining sleep despite previous treatment with multiple hypnotic medications that provided only temporary benefit. Following a one-week washout period, the patient underwent a standardized Pāshoya consisting of Withania somnifera, Valeriana wallichii, Melissa officinalis, Matricaria chamomilla, and Lavandula stoechas. Both feet were immersed in a lukewarm herbal decoction for 20 minutes at bedtime once daily for 45 consecutive days. Intervention and Outcomes Clinical improvement was assessed using the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI). The ISI score decreased from 18 (moderate clinical insomnia) at baseline to 12 on Day 15, 8 on Day 30, and 6 on Day 45, indicating resolution of clinically significant insomnia. The patient also reported improved sleep onset, fewer nocturnal awakenings, better daytime functioning, and enhanced sleep quality. No treatment-related adverse events were observed, and the clinical improvement was sustained during a three-month follow-up without additional pharmacological therapy. Conclusion This case suggests that standardized Pāshoya may represent a safe and potentially beneficial complementary intervention for selected patients with chronic insomnia. Further well-designed controlled studies are required to establish its efficacy, safety, and underlying mechanisms.
BACKGROUND:Chronic migraine ('Shaqīqa-i-Muzmin) is a common and disabling neurological condition affecting 1-3% of the global population. Esteemed Unāni physicians documented the use of an herbal poultice (Ḍimād) for treating chronic migraine. This case report describes the clinical outcomes of a patient with chronic migraine treated with a herbal poultice (Ḍimād). CASE PRESENTATION:A 45-year-old female presented to the Outpatient Department of Ilāj bi'l Tadbīr at Kashmir Tibbia College Hospital and Research Centre in Kashmir, India, with a 12-year history of chronic migraine. She experienced recurrent unilateral, throbbing headaches accompanied by nausea, photophobia, and phonophobia, occurring on approximately 18 days per month. Prior conventional treatments provided only temporary symptomatic relief. At baseline, her Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score was 8/10, and her Migraine Disability Assessment Scale (MIDAS) score was 42, indicating severe disability. INTERVENTION AND OUTCOMES:The patient received treatment with an Ḍimād composed of Euphorbia resinifera Berg. (Farfiyūn), Ferula foetida Regel (Hiltīt), and Ferula galbaniflua Boiss. (Jāwshīr), prepared in sugarcane vinegar. The formulation was applied once daily to the forehead and right frontotemporal region for 28 consecutive days. After treatment, headache frequency dropped from 18 to 4 days per month, the VAS score improved from 8 to 2, and the MIDAS score decreased from 42 to 10. Associated symptoms were significantly reduced. No adverse events occurred, treatment adherence was excellent, and clinical improvement persisted throughout the six-month follow-up period. CONCLUSION:This case suggests that Ḍimād may be a safe and potentially beneficial complementary therapeutic option for chronic migraine. Additional controlled studies are needed to validate its efficacy and safety.
Introduction Sciatica, a form of radiculopathy, impacts 13–40% of individuals globally over their lifetime. In Unani medicine, fire cupping therapy is recognized for effectively alleviating sciatica symptoms. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of fire cupping therapy in the management of pain and disability associated with sciatica. Methods In this open-label, randomized controlled trial, 45 patients with sciatica were randomly assigned to two groups: the test group received fire cupping therapy (Ḥijāma bi’l Nār), and the control group received transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), both administered for 20 min on alternate days over 15 days. Outcomes were evaluated using the visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) at baseline, day 7, and day 15. Results Of the 45 participants randomized, 40 completed the study (20 in each group). Both the fire cupping and TENS groups showed significant improvements in pain intensity and functional disability from baseline to day 15 (both p < 0.001). At day 15, the fire cupping group demonstrated significantly greater improvement than the TENS group, with lower VAS scores (mean difference [Fire cupping − TENS] = −1.05, 95% CI: −1.8609 to −0.2391; p = 0.012) and lower ODI scores (mean difference [Fire cupping − TENS] = −3.50, 95% CI: −6.5706 to −0.4294; p = 0.004). One participant in the fire cupping group experienced mild ecchymosis, which resolved spontaneously without intervention. Conclusion Fire cupping therapy produced statistically greater short-term improvements in pain intensity and functional disability than TENS over the 15-day treatment period in patients with sciatica. Although the between-group differences were statistically significant, their clinical importance should be interpreted with caution. Larger multicenter randomized controlled trials with longer follow-up are required to confirm the clinical relevance and long-term sustainability of these findings.
OBJECTIVES:Chronic migraine is a prevalent and disabling neurological disorder affecting 1-3 % of the global population. Ancient Unani physicians have described herbal liniment ('Ṭilā) as a treatment modality for chronic migraine. This study aimed to evaluate its efficacy in managing the condition. METHODS:A randomized controlled trial was conducted on 36 patients with chronic migraine. Participants were divided into two groups: the test group (n=24), which received herbal liniment applied locally once daily for 15 days, and the control group (n=12), which underwent transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) for 30 min daily, 5 days a week, over 2 weeks. Outcomes were measured using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), headache frequency, and the Migraine Disability Assessment Scale (MIDAS) on days 15, 30, 60, and 90. RESULTS:Both groups showed significant improvement within the groups in headache frequency (p<0.0001). The test group demonstrated greater effectiveness, with larger reductions in headache frequency (mean difference 39.63; p<0.0001), VAS (mean difference 3.96; p<0.001), and MIDAS (mean difference 2.25; p=0.003). CONCLUSIONS:Herbal liniment effectively reduced migraine frequency, intensity, and disability. Larger studies are needed to validate these findings and assess long-term outcomes.
Background: Frozen shoulder (Waja-i-Mafṣal-i-Katif) is a painful condition that leads to stiffness and restricted movement of the shoulder joint. While conventional treatments often rely on medications, Unani regimenal therapy provides a non-invasive alternative for management. Objective: This study aims to assess the effectiveness of Hijāma Dalkiyya (Gliding Cupping) combined with targeted shoulder exercises in improving pain, mobility, and functional ability in individuals with frozen shoulder. Methods: A 67-year-old male diagnosed with right shoulder adhesive capsulitis underwent 21 gliding cupping sessions and structured exercises. Pain levels and shoulder mobility were evaluated using the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) and clinical diagnostic tests before and after treatment. Results: The intervention resulted in a notable improvement in range of motion (ROM), a reduction in SPADI scores, and the negation of previously positive diagnostic tests. The combined effects of cupping therapy and exercise enhanced blood circulation, reduced inflammation, and restored flexibility, improving shoulder function. Conclusion: Unani regimenal therapy, particularly gliding cupping with targeted exercises, shows promise as an effective, non-pharmacological approach for treating frozen shoulder. Further clinical studies are recommended to validate these findings and integrate this method into modern rehabilitation practices. Keywords: Frozen shoulder, Unani therapy, Hijāma Dalkiyya, Gliding cupping, Shoulder rehabilitation
Background:Venous ulcers represent the most common type of leg ulcer and a debilitating consequence of chronic venous insufficiency. If not appropriately managed, these ulcers can progress to serious complications such as gangrene and limb amputation, causing a significant decline in the patient's quality of life. In the Unani system of medicine, such ulcers are managed using various non-pharmacological interventions categorized under Ilāj bi'l Tadbīr (regimenal therapies). Among these, Ta'līq al-'Alaq (leech therapy) is frequently used for its efficacy in managing ulcers. This case study presents the treatment of a venous ulcer using leech therapy. Case presentation:A 42-year-old male presented with complaints of an ulcer on the right lower leg near the medial malleolus, accompanied by pain, discharge, and darkening of the skin in the right lower limb. Five sessions of leech therapy were conducted at 10-day intervals over 50 days, specifically on the 0th, 10th, 20th, 30th, and 40th days. In each session, three medicinal leeches (Hirudo medicinalis) were applied to the ulcer site, and the site was assessed based on the wound area size, the appearance of healthy granulation tissue, epithelialization, pain, discharge, and smell. Results:Before treatment, the wound area was 8 cm × 5 cm × 4 mm, with 0% epithelization, purulent discharge, pain, dark skin, and foul smell. On the 50th day, the ulcer size had decreased to 2 cm × 1 cm × 0.5 mm, epithelization increased from 0 to 80 %, and granulation increased from 20 to 80 %. Discharge and smell were reduced from severe to absent, and pain decreased from 8 to 1 out of 10 on a visual analog scale. Conclusion:Our case study demonstrated the efficacy of leech therapy as a safe, non-invasive therapeutic approach, creating opportunities for its use in treating venous ulcers. Further research is warranted to determine the efficacy and effectiveness of leech therapy. keywords:Venous ulcer, Leech Therapy, Ta'līq al- 'Alaq, Unani Medicine, Case report.
Background:Unāni Medicine, a complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), has been part of the healthcare system since antiquity and adopts a gentle and holistic approach to treating diseases. In Unāni Medicine, 'Irq al-Nasā (sciatica) falls under Waja'al-Mafāsil (arthritis), where the pain originates in the hip joint and radiates to the back of the thigh and occasionally to the knee, ankle, and toes. Objective:This study aims to explore the interpretation of sciatica in Unāni classical literature, with a focus on its management. Methodology:This study employed a comprehensive review approach, analysing Unāni classical texts to gather data on sciatica. Additionally, electronic databases, namely PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar, were explored for data collection. Results:The findings of the literature search revealed that four different treatment modalities are detailed in the traditional textbook of Unāni medicine, namely, 'Ilāj bi'l Tadbīr (Regimenal therapy), 'Ilāj bi'l Taghdhiya (Dietotherapy), 'Ilāj bi'l Dawā' (Pharmacotherapy), and 'Ilāj bi'l Yad (Surgery). Sciatica is commonly caused by derangement in the quality and quantity of Akhlāt (humours). Unāni physicians recommend specific diets, regimenal therapies, and medications based on the patient's temperament, humour causing the ailment, the faculty of the implicated organ, and the severity of the condition to promote health, prevent illness, and treat existing conditions. Conclusion:The review of literature indicates that ancient Unāni physicians had a thorough understanding of sciatica, including its history, risk factors, etiopathogenesis, and management. Further research is required to enhance the therapeutic approaches for sciatica across traditional medical domains. Keywords:Unāni Medicine; 'Irq al-Nasā; Sciatica; 'Ilāj bi'l Tadbīr; Waja 'al-Mafāsil.
Background:In the Unani system of medicine, migraine is described as Shaqīqa, a term derived from the Arabic word "shiq" meaning "a side" or "a section", referring to the characteristic unilateral nature of the headache. Migraine is a chronic neurological disorder affecting approximately 14% of the global population. Objective:This review aims to provide a comprehensive account of Shaqīqa (migraine) within the framework of Unani medicine, focusing on its pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic principles, and therapeutic strategies. Methods:A thorough review of classical Unani texts was undertaken to extract relevant insights on migraine. Additionally, contemporary literature was retrieved through systematic searches in electronic databases such as PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar to contextualize Unani perspectives with current biomedical understanding. Findings:In Unani medicine, migraine is classified under Sudā' Māddī (headache due to morbid humoral matter). It is typically unilateral, recurrent, and chronic, and is not attributed to Sū'-i-Mizāj Sāda (simple morbid temperament). Primary causes include Rīh (internal wind), Bukhārāt (vapors), and Akhlāt-i-Ghalīzah (viscous humors). Pathogenesis involves the ascent of Bukhārāt-i-Raddiya (morbid vapors) from the gastrointestinal tract or other organs to the brain, leading to headache. Treatment approaches in Unani medicine are highly individualized, based on the patient's temperament (Mizāj), the dominant humor, organ involvement, and severity. A range of single and compound herbal formulations is employed to restore humoral balance and alleviate symptoms. Conclusion:The Unani medicine offers a detailed and holistic understanding of migraine, encompassing its etiology, clinical features, and treatment modalities. This review underscores the need for further interdisciplinary research to validate and potentially integrate Unani therapeutic approaches into contemporary migraine management. Keywords:Migraine, Shaqīqa, Unāni medicine, Headache, 'Tilā.
Objective: To investigate date fruit's potential benefits on maternal and fetal outcomes in pregnancy, focusing on labor progression, maternal nutritional needs, and reduced medical interventions. Case Report: A 35-year-old primigravida patient consumed six date fruits daily for four weeks prior to her estimated delivery date. She presented with spontaneous labor at 39 weeks, experiencing normal latent phase duration of 12 hours, and delivered a healthy male baby weighing 2.9 kg. Her pregnancy course was uncomplicated, with no significant abnormalities in antenatal scans or laboratory results. Conclusion: This case report suggests date fruit consumption supports maternal and fetal well-being, facilitating a smooth labor process and potentially reducing labor induction and medical interventions. Aligning with existing research, dates' nutritional and therapeutic benefits may enhance cervical ripening and shorten labor duration. Larger-scale trials are necessary to confirm these effects and establish standardized guidelines. Keywords: primigravida, date fruit's, smooth labor process, 3rd trimester
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:Cervical spondylosis is a chronic degenerative process of the cervical spine characterized by pain in neck, degenerative changes in intervertebral disc and osteophyte formation. Cervical spondylosis is translated as Waja' ur Raqaba, a type of joint pain. The present study was aimed to evaluate the effect of wet cupping in the pain management of cervical spondylosis. METHODS:This Open, randomized, controlled, clinical study was conducted on 44 patients. Subjects in the test group (n = 22) received a series of three-staged wet cupping treatment, performed on 0, 7th and 14th day. Subjects in the control group (n = 22) received 12 sittings of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS): 6 sittings per week for two weeks. The objective findings of treatment were assessed with the help of VAS, Neck Disability Index (NDI) and Cervical range of motion. RESULTS:Intra group comparison in test group from baseline to 21st day were found highly significant (p < 0.001) in terms of VAS, NDI, Flexion, Extension and Left rotation score. While in Right rotation, Left rotation and Left lateral flexion score were found moderately significant (p < 0.01). Statistically significant difference was observed between two groups at 21st day in VAS scale, NDI, and Cervical range of motion score (p < 0.001). INTERPRETATION AND CONCLUSION:Ḥijāma Bish Sharṭ was found better in the management of pain due to cervical spondylosis than TENS. It can be concluded that Ḥijāma Bish Sharṭ may a better option for the pain management of cervical spondylosis. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION:The trial was registered on clinical trial registry website (www.ctri.nic.in) bearing a CTRI Number, CTRI/2020/03/024,249.
Menstrual patterns can be an indicator of overall health and self-perception of well-being. Amenorrhoea is the absence of menses in women of reproductive agewhich may be primary or secondary. Primary amenorrhoea refers to the absence of menarche at the age of 16 and secondary amenorrhoea is the cessation of menses for at least 6 months in already cycling women. Secondary amenorrhoea is more common than primary amenorrhea. Ihtibas al-Tamth (amenorrhoea) is defined in the Unani system of medicine as the absence of monthly bleeding for more than 2 months or a decrease in the quantity of menstrual blood. The etiologies of amenorrhoea may be considered categorically as outflow tract abnormalities, primary ovarian insufficiency, hypothalamic or pituitary disorders, other endocrine gland disorders, sequelae of chronic disease, physiologic, or induced. The causes of Ihtibas al-Tamth are related to Quwwat Dafia al-Badan, Madda and Johar Khun-i-Hayd, or Ala Makhraj -i-Hayd. Su’-i-Mizaj Barid, Yabis, Harr or Harr wa Yabis, Su’-i-Mizaj Maddi or Sada can lead to Du’f al-Quwwat-i-Dafia. Abnormality in quality and quantity of Madda in Su’-i-Mizaj Maddi can also lead to ihtibas al-tamth. Amenorrhoea is not a diagnosis but a symptom indicating anatomical, genetic and neuroendocrine abnormalities. It can be determined by two different groups of causes: (a) anatomical defects of the genital organs; (b) endocrine dysfunctions. Both congenital and acquired anomalies in the structure of the uterus and vagina could produce amenorrhoea; nevertheless, in most patients, amenorrhoea is related to an ovarian malfunction. Symptoms usually associated with amenorrhoea are headache, nausea, back ache and lower abdominal pain, tiredness, and some respiratory problems. Main principle of treatment includes Tawleed-i-Dam, Tanqiya-i-Akhlat Ghaleeza, Talteef-i-Khilt, Tafteeh-i-Uruq Raham and Tahzeel if obesity is the cause. Surgical intervention if hymen is imperforated. Some regimenal therapies are also beneficial in amenorrhoea, such as Fasd-i-Safin, Hammam-i-Murattib and Hijama-i-Nariya on calf area. Some Unani drugs, which are beneficial in amenorrhoea, are Habb-i-Mudir, Safoof-i-Baboona, Kushta Faulad, and Safoof Muhazzil. In the present scenario, it is utmost important to educate the patients to live a healthy and hygienic life and to avoid those factors which cause amenorrhoea.
Malkangni, also known as Celastrus paniculatus Willd., is a herb widely used in the Unani system of medicine for its neuropharmacological properties. The seeds and oil of Malkangni have therapeutic benefits, including enhancing memory and cognitive functions. Malkangni exhibits a range of pharmacological activities, including neuroprotective, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects. It has shown potential to improve learning and memory, sedation, and anti-convulsive properties and treat conditions such as leprosy, rheumatism, diarrhea, and arthritis. The diverse pharmacological activities of Malkangni suggest its potential in treating various health conditions. This review aims to describe the medicinal properties and therapeutic applications of Malkangni through the perspective of Unani medicine and its phytochemical and pharmacological studies. Keywords: Malkangni, Celastrus paniculatus, Unani medicine, traditional medicine, natural medicine
Ilaj bit Tadbeer, a vital therapeutic approach in the Unani system of medicine, focuses on modifying six essential elements to restore health. This approach encompasses various regimenal therapies such as cupping (Hijāma), leeching (Ta'līq or irsal-e- 'Alaq), venesection (Fasd), massage (Dalk), irrigation (Natūl), emesis (Qay'), diuresis (Idrār-i-Bawl), diaphoresis (Tariq), concoction and purgation (Mundij and Mu'shil therapy), medicated steam (Bukhoor), cauterization (Kaiyy), and enema (Huqna). Fasd is a crucial regimen in Ilaj Bit Tadbeer, serving as a method to eliminate morbid material from the body to treat diseases or maintain good health. With a history of almost 3000 years, Fasd has been effectively utilized in treating various ailments across different eras. Although venesection, or Fasd, has a historical significance, its modern application has declined due to the lack of scientific validation. This review aims to explore the historical context, therapeutic applications, contraindications, and contemporary scientific evidence of Fasd, emphasizing its potential in modern medicine. Keywords: Ilaj bit Tadbeer, Unani medicine, Fasd, venesection, therapeutic applications, scientific evidence.