Mother and Child Wellbeing in Unani System of Medicine
Abstract
Mother’s health and her child’s overall development are deeply interconnected. In developing countries, maternal and child health care is a major concern. Unani medicine offers cost-effective, high-quality healthcare with minimal side effects, emphasizing lifestyle changes and preventive care to ensure a healthy future generation.
Introduction
Maternal and child health (MCH) is a vital indicator of a nation\'s health. Despite economic progress, India still struggles to lower maternal mortality rates. Pregnant women and children are most vulnerable and need dedicated care. Unani medicine emphasizes health promotion through Asbab-e-Sitta Zaroriya (Six Essentials of Life) for preventing diseases and maintaining health.
Health Promotion in Non-Pregnant/Pregnant Women
Unani medicine focuses on:
1 Purified Air (Hawa-e-Muheet): Strengthens immunity and prevents diseases.
2 Diet and Nutrition (Makool wa Mashroob): Advocates balanced, seasonal diets.
.During pregnancy, foods like dates, pomegranate, and iron-rich meals are recommended.
3 Physical Activity and Rest (Harkat wa Sukoon-e-Badani): Helps in hormonal balance and energy maintenance.
4 Mental Activity (Harkat wa Sukoon-e-Nafsani): Emotional stability is crucial for both mother and fetus.
5 Sleep-Wake Pattern (Naum wa Yaqz): Promotes healthy metabolism.
6 Retention and Elimination (Ehtibas wa Istifragh): Ensures proper excretion of wastes.
Dietary Recommendations in Pregnancy
.Nutrient-dense foods (Talbina, Jawarish Tamarhind) for anemia and digestion.
.Late-pregnancy use of ghee and butter to support fetal development.
.Herbal remedies for common issues like constipation, cough, and nausea.
Health Promotion in Infancy and Childhood
Unani guidelines for infants and children include:
.Umbilical Cord Care: Cleaning with olive oil and turmeric-based powders
.Bathing and Hygiene: Use lukewarm water and gentle oils.
.Breastfeeding: Mother’s milk is prioritized for immunity.
.Common Ailments: Herbal remedies for diarrhea, cough, teething, and sleep issues.
Role of Breastfeeding in Unani Medicine
Breastfeeding is seen as both a nourishment and a preventive healthcare tool.
.Promotes immunity and enhances the child\'s physical and mental strength.
. Unani scholars recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months.
.Remedies like Sharbat-e-Bazoori are suggested for increasing milk production.
Emotional and Behavioral Care in Childhood
.Monitoring emotional well-being prevents mood disorders.
.Encourage exercise, laughter, and socialization.
.Massage therapy using almond or olive oil aids relaxation and development.
Key Unani Interventions for Common Maternal and Child Issues
1Anemia in Mothers: Iron-rich herbs like Asgandh Nagori and diet modifications.
2Postpartum Recovery: Herbal decoctions and massages to support uterine health.
3Infant Disorders: Herbal syrups for digestion, teething pain, and immunity enhancement.
Community Role in Maternal and Child Health
Unani emphasizes family and community support:
.Training programs for midwives (Dais) in Unani practices.
.Community awareness campaigns for safe motherhood.
Conclusion
Unani medicine provides detailed regimens for maternal and child health. It aligns with cultural and economic realities, making it a sustainable option for promoting wellness. Integrating Unani practices into national healthcare policies can significantly improve outcomes.
References
(1)https://www.encyclopedia.com/education/encyclopedias-almanacs-transcripts-andmaps/maternal-and-child-health. (cited on 20th July 2019)
2. World Health Organization. Trends in maternal mortality: 1990 to 2010. WHO, UNICEF, UNFPA, and the World Bank Estimates. Geneva: WHO; 2012.
3. Nafees I. Kulliyat-e-Nafeesi, (translation and elaboration) sharah by Hkm Kabiruddin, Vol-1, Idara -e -Kitab us Shifa, New Delhi. 188, 189, 214, 234.
4. Glynn J, Vallee NB et al. Dietotherapy: Let food be your medicine. 2013.
5. Sina I. Al Qanoon fit Tib (English Translation of the critical Arabic text). Book 1. Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi.1993.
6. Sina I. Al Qanoon fil Tibb, Urdu translation by Hkm Ghulam Hasnain Qantoori, Idara e Kitab us Shifa, New Delhi, 2010; 97,109,174, 203-204.
7. Ahmad SI. Introduction to Al Umoor Al Tabiyah, 1st edition, Saini printers, New Delhi. 1980
8 Gruner, OC. A Treatise on the Canon of Medicine of Avicenna, AMS press, New York. 1973; 173: 177.
9. Nafees. Kulliyat e Nafeesi, (translation and elaboration) sharah by Hkm Kabiruddin, Vol-1, Idara e Kitab us Shifa, New Delhi. 188, 189,214,234
10. Zaid H, Said O, Hadieh B et al. Diabetes prevention and treatment with Greco-Arab and Islamic-based natural products., 2011; 15.
11.https://www.c3health.org/blog/review-benefits-physical-activity/ (cited on 10-01-2020)
12. Ghani N. Khazainul Advia. Idarae Kitabus Shifa, New Delhi, USA. 2001.
13 Tabri R. Firdaus-ul-Hikmat. Idara Kitab-u-Shifa, New Delhi, 2010
14. Jurjani AH. Zakhira Khawarazm Shahi. Idara Kitab us Shifa, New Delhi, 2010.
15. Baghdadi IH. Kitab Al Mukhtarat fil Tib. CCRUM, New Delhi, Vol 1. 2010: 182-190.
16.Majoosi AA. Kamil ul Sanah (Urdu translation). Idara Kitabus Shifa, New Delhi, 2010
