11 Unani Medicine Principles and Concepts Explained

6. Principle #6: Quwa (Faculties / Powers)

Quwa denotes the powers or faculties that perform body functions. Traditionally, these are divided into natural, vital, and psychic faculties—each supporting digestion, circulation and motion, and mental activities respectively. A hakim evaluates whether these faculties are strong or weak and prescribes therapies to support them. For example, digestive weakness (natural faculty) might be treated with light, warming foods and simple digestive aids, while a weak psychic faculty might lead to recommendations for calming routines or herbal tonics aimed at restoring mental balance. The quwa concept helps focus treatment on function rather than just symptoms; restoring a faculty’s strength is viewed as restoring resilience. In modern practice, this dovetails with functional medicine ideas—improving digestion, sleep, and stress resilience to reduce symptoms. Takeaway: Quwa emphasizes the body's active capacities and guides treatments that rebuild functional strength.