Unani System of Medicine and Its Distinctive Features
The Unani system of medicine is a holistic and comprehensive approach to healthcare, rooted in human observation and experience. It is built on a foundation of well-defined principles and practices, embracing all methods of treatment deemed beneficial and supportive.
In certain cases, dietary adjustments alone are considered sufficient. For example, Lala Lajpat Rai, a prominent leader, suffered from insomnia. Despite seeking treatment in Europe, he found no relief. On Mahatma Gandhi’s advice, he consulted Hakim Ajmal Khan, who simply modified his diet. This adjustment successfully restored his sleep.
Unani medicine also emphasizes psychological treatments for specific patients. In some cases, it employs radiative therapies, steam baths, or hydrotherapy, alongside recommending targeted exercises. Treatments like massage (Dalak) and leech therapy are prescribed for specific conditions, while color therapy is also used in certain scenarios.
One noteworthy instance is shared by Sheikh Bu Ali Sina, who treated a patient with poor eyesight when medicines failed. He recommended the patient walk through lush green gardens and gaze at verdant fields. Following this regimen consistently, the patient’s vision improved significantly. While some advocate for exclusive reliance on nature-based treatments, Unani medicine recognizes the importance of natural therapies.
Key Features of Unani Medicine
1 Focus on Root Cause Treatment
Unani medicine prioritizes addressing the root causes of diseases rather than suppressing symptoms with toxic or harsh medications.
2 Personalized and Safe Treatments
Treatments are prescribed based on an individual’s temperament (Mizaj) and constitution, minimizing side effects or adverse reactions.
3 Comprehensive Diagnosis
Diagnostic methods, such as pulse examination, urine analysis, and stool observation, require effort but save the patient both time and money
4 Accessible to All Classes
Unani medicine has served both royal palaces and underprivileged communities, offering remedies suitable for both affluent and poor individuals alike.
5 Affordable and Simple
Even in today’s age of high medical expenses, most Unani medicines remain affordable and accessible
6 Multi-Condition Treatment
A single Unani prescription often addresses multiple ailments simultaneously, eliminating the need for visits to various specialists.
Enduring Popularity and Challenges
The unique features of Unani medicine have made it widely popular across centuries. However, it is deeply concerning that this beneficial and harmless system is now facing prejudice and neglect.
The state of Unani medical colleges and institutions is particularly alarming. These centers are neither prioritizing the development of Unani medicine nor focusing on producing competent practitioners.
The responsibility for the preservation and advancement of this art lies primarily with those connected to these institutions. A collective effort is needed to overcome this indifference and restore Unani medicine to its rightful stature, ensuring its legacy continues to benefit future generations.
Note: The Unani system’s emphasis on simplicity, affordability, and holistic healing has the potential to address modern healthcare challenges effectively. It is essential to invest in its growth and development.
