11 Unani Medicine Principles and Concepts Explained

4. Principle #4: Aza (Organs)

Aza covers the physical organs and their relationships. Unani texts describe how organs function, how humours move through them, and where disease tends to appear. In practice, a hakim considers which organ systems are affected when symptoms present—digestive complaints point to the stomach and liver in Unani assessment, while breathing issues direct attention to the lungs and chest. Treatments may be local (for example, poultices or topical pastes) or systemic (dietary changes and decoctions) to restore proper organ function. The organ focus connects theory to observable signs: pain, functional loss, swelling, or mucosal changes guide the diagnosis. While modern anatomy and pathophysiology provide different explanations for organ disease, Unani’s organ-based approach aligns with the clinical habit of locating and treating the site of illness, which still has practical value in a contemporary clinic. Takeaway: Aza grounds Unani reasoning in organs and observable symptoms to guide targeted care.