11 Unani Medicine Principles and Concepts Explained

9. Principle #9: Treatment Principles (Diet, Regimen, Pharmacotherapy)

Unani treatments rest on three broad approaches: ilaj bil ghiza (dietotherapy), ilaj bil tadbir (regimenary therapy), and ilaj bil dawa (drug therapy). Diet and routine often come first. For example, a hakim might prescribe gentle food changes, specific meal timings, and daily practices like moderate exercise or sleep adjustments to correct a mizaj imbalance. Regimens include topical measures, massage, controlled purging or bloodletting in classical texts, and lifestyle prescriptions that mirror modern preventive health advice. Drug therapy uses herbal formulations and minerals prepared in classical ways; these are chosen for their temperamental effects rather than single-target pharmacology. Contemporary practitioners emphasize safety: they favor formulations with known safety profiles, avoid high-risk procedures without strong indications, and advise coordination with conventional doctors when necessary (AYUSH/Delhi). The modern trend is to use Unani approaches for preventive care, minor chronic complaints, and supportive roles alongside mainstream medicine. Takeaway: Unani treatment prioritizes diet and lifestyle, supported by traditional medicines chosen to restore balance.