what is unani medicine - #43412
I am really curious about Unani medicine and how it could help me because I've been dealing with some chronic digestive issues for a while now. Like, a few months ago I started noticing this constant bloating and stomach discomfort, especially after meals, ugh! I’ve tried changing my diet, cutting out gluten and dairy, but nothing seems to work. I went to a couple of doctors, and they just keep prescribing me different medications, but I feel like I'm just masking the problem more than solving it ya know? One of my friends mentioned that Unani medicine focuses on natural balance and uses herbs rather than synthetic drugs, which kinda got me thinking—what is Unani medicine exactly? I did a little reading and it seems really interesting. Like, I read about it being based on the teachings of Hippocrates and Galen? That sounds cool! But does it really help with issues like gut health? Can someone share what their experience with Unani medicine has been, especially for digestive issues? I’m also wondering if I should find a practitioner specializing in this or if I can start with some home remedies. Help!
Doctor-recommended remedies for this condition

Doctors' responses
Unani medicine, indeed rooted in the teachings of Hippocrates and developed further by Islamic physicians like Avicenna, is a holistic system of healing that focuses on maintaining a balance of the body’s four humors, similar to Ayurveda’s doshas. It’s grounded in the concept of chishti or harmony, where physical and mental health involves the equilibrium of these bodily fluids: Dam (blood), Balgham (phlegm), Safra (yellow bile), and Sauda (black bile).
Now, regarding your chronic digestive issues like bloating and discomfort, Unani could offer some insights. It’s particularly known for using herbal treatments, dietary changes, and lifestyle modifications to address imbalances. The gut issues might be viewed through the lens of a disturbance in your body’s humoral balance, possibly indicating an excess of one humor or the other.
In Unani medicine, digestive problems might be linked to a weak ‘quwwat-e-hazima’ (digestive power). Treatment could involve adjusting your diet to foods that enhance this digestive capacity. For instance, including herbs like fennel, ginger, or mint in your diet could naturally soothe bloating. These methods aren’t just about what you eat, but also about how it’s prepared and consumed; foods should be fresh, properly cooked, and well-suited to your specific temperament.
Regarding home remedies, while they can be supportive, consulting with a qualified Unani practitioner is often the best way to get personalized care. They can offer a tailored approach based on your unique constitution and help create a treatment plan that considers your specific humoral imbalance. Unani practitioners also incorporate hijama (wet cupping), which can sometimes help in eliminating excess humors causing digestive distress.
Remember, though, gut health can be complex, so it’s important to not delay seeking immediate medical advice if symptoms are severe or worsen. Integrating Unani practices with your current healthcare regime can potentially offer more comprehensive support. Don’t shy away from discussing these options with your regular doctor to ensure a safe and coordinated approach to your health.
Unani Medicine, also known as Unani Tibb, is indeed rooted in the teachings of Hippocrates and Galen, but it has evolved into a comprehensive medical system that combines ancient wisdom with the principles of Greek medicine. It emphasizes balancing the four humors: blood, phlegm, yellow bile, and black bile, to maintain health, somewhat akin to the dosha balances in Ayurveda. Unani uses herbal formulations and lifestyle adjustments to treat ailments.
For your chronic digestive issues like bloating and discomfort, Unani practitioners often focus on strengthening digestion and balancing body humors. Remedies may include herbal infusions or decoctions designed to improve digestive fire, which could be similar to stimulating the “agni” in Ayurveda. They’re likely to recommend herbs like fennel, caraway, or ginger that can assist in easing bloating and gas.
Consider visiting a Unani practitioner if you’re interested, as they can provide tailored recommendations based on your unique symptoms and constitution. A practitioner might conduct a full assessment incorporating pulse and physical exam, evaluating the balance of the humors in your body.
For home remedies while you look for a professional, you might try drinking a glass of warm water with a pinch of fennel seed after meals to promote better digestion and reduce bloating. Also, eating at regular times and engaging in mild activity after meals to aid digestion can be beneficial.
However, keep in mind that chronic symptoms warrant professional supervision. Self-treatment may temporarily relieve discomfort but not address underlying conditions. Always cross-check if these remedies interact with any medications you previously have been prescribed. Make sure any severe or persistent symptoms are evaluated by a healthcare provider who understands your medical history for a comprehensive approach.

100% Anonymous
600+ certified Ayurvedic experts. No sign-up.
About our doctors
Only qualified ayurvedic doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.
