What Is Unani Medicine? Complete Guide to Unani Medicines | MedLelo
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What Is Unani Medicine? Complete Guide to Unani Medicines, Formulations & Traditional Uses.
What Is Unani Medicine?
Unani medicine is a traditional system of medicine rooted in the Greco-Arabic medical tradition and developed extensively in the Islamic world and South Asia.
The Unani system is based on a traditional understanding of health, disease, temperament and balance. Classical Unani medicine includes concepts such as Mizaj (temperament) and Akhlat (humours) and uses a wide range of traditional formulations.
In India, Unani products are available in different forms, including Qurs, Habbe, Majun, Khamira, Itrifal, Sharbat, Roghan (oils), powders and other formulations.
Today, people can find Unani products from a variety of Indian manufacturers and brands through pharmacies, traditional medicine stores and online marketplaces.
MedLelo provides an online catalogue of Unani, Ayurvedic, herbal wellness and healthcare products from different brands and manufacturers in India.
What Does Unani Mean?
The word Unani is associated with the Greek medical tradition. The system developed through the transmission, interpretation and expansion of Greek medical knowledge by scholars in the Middle East and later developed extensively in South Asia.
Unani medicine therefore has a long historical tradition and should be understood within its own traditional medical framework.
How Does Unani Medicine Work?
Traditional Unani medicine views health through concepts such as Mizaj, Akhlat, organs, lifestyle and environmental factors.
A central concept in classical Unani theory is the balance of four humours, known as Akhlat:
- Dam — blood
- Balgham — phlegm
- Safra — yellow bile
- Sauda — black bile
Traditional Unani practitioners may consider these concepts, along with a person's temperament or Mizaj, when assessing health and selecting traditional treatments.
These are historical and traditional medical concepts. They should not automatically be treated as equivalent to modern biomedical explanations or as scientific proof that a particular product will treat a disease.
What Is Mizaj in Unani Medicine?
Mizaj is a traditional Unani concept referring to a person's temperament or constitution.
Classical Unani theory describes temperaments using qualities such as:
- Hot
- Cold
- Moist
- Dry
Traditional practitioners may consider Mizaj when evaluating an individual's health and selecting an appropriate traditional regimen.
What Are Akhlat in Unani Medicine?
Akhlat means humours in the traditional Unani medical system.
The four classical humours are:
- Dam — blood
- Balgham — phlegm
- Safra — yellow bile
- Sauda — black bile
Akhlat is part of the historical theoretical framework of Unani medicine.
What Are the Common Types of Unani Medicines?
Unani products are available in several traditional dosage forms. The formulation, ingredients and intended use vary from one product to another.
1. Qurs
Qurs generally refers to a tablet or compressed solid formulation used in Unani preparations.
Different Qurs products contain different ingredients and are manufactured for different traditional applications.
Always check the individual product label for ingredients, directions and precautions.
2. Habbe
Habbe generally refers to a pill or small solid formulation.
Unani Habbe preparations may contain combinations of herbs, minerals or other traditionally used ingredients, depending on the particular formulation.
The composition and intended use should always be checked on the product packaging.
3. Majun
Majun is a traditional semi-solid Unani formulation.
It is generally prepared by combining powdered ingredients with a suitable base. Different Majun formulations have different compositions and traditional applications.
Because formulations can vary substantially, consumers should check the specific product's ingredients and manufacturer's instructions.
4. Khamira
Khamira is a traditional semi-solid preparation commonly associated with Unani medicine.
Different Khamira formulations contain different ingredients and may have different traditional uses.
Consumers should rely on the individual manufacturer's label rather than assuming that all Khamira products have the same purpose.
5. Itrifal
Itrifal is a traditional Unani formulation commonly prepared using ingredients such as fruits, herbs and other traditionally used substances.
There are different types of Itrifal, and their ingredients and traditional applications vary.
6. Sharbat
Sharbat refers to a liquid preparation commonly found among Unani formulations.
Different Sharbat products can have different ingredients, compositions and traditional applications.
Always check the product label before use.
7. Roghan and Unani Oils
Some Unani preparations are available as Roghan (oils).
Depending on the formulation, these products may be intended for external application.
Always check the manufacturer's instructions to determine how a particular oil should be used.
What Ingredients Are Used in Unani Medicines?
Unani formulations can contain many different types of traditionally used ingredients.
Depending on the product, these may include:
- Herbs
- Seeds
- Fruits
- Roots
- Flowers
- Leaves
- Plant extracts
- Natural oils
- Minerals
- Other traditionally used substances
There is no single ingredient list for Unani medicine.
The composition depends on the individual formulation and manufacturer. Consumers should therefore check the product packaging or official product information for the complete ingredient list.
What Are Unani Medicines Traditionally Used For?
Different Unani formulations have traditionally been associated with different areas of health and wellness.
Depending on the particular formulation, traditional applications may include:
- Digestive wellness
- General wellness
- Respiratory wellness
- Skin care
- Hair care
- Men's wellness
- Women's wellness
- General vitality
However, a traditional use should not automatically be interpreted as evidence that a product can diagnose, treat, cure or prevent a medical condition.
For specific health concerns, consumers should consult an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.
What Is the Difference Between Unani and Ayurveda?
Unani and Ayurveda are both traditional systems of medicine, but they have different historical origins and theoretical frameworks.
| Unani Medicine | Ayurveda |
|---|---|
| Rooted in the Greco-Arabic medical tradition | Rooted in the Indian traditional medical tradition |
| Developed extensively in the Islamic world and South Asia | Developed extensively in the Indian subcontinent |
| Uses concepts such as Mizaj and Akhlat | Uses concepts such as Doshas |
| Includes formulations such as Qurs, Habbe and Majun | Includes formulations such as Churna, Taila and Kwath |
| Widely practiced in India | Widely practiced in India |
Although both systems may use herbs and other naturally derived ingredients, Unani and Ayurveda are not the same medical system.
Is Unani Medicine the Same as Herbal Medicine?
No.
Many Unani formulations contain herbs and plant-derived ingredients, but Unani medicine is a broader traditional medical system with its own history, terminology, theories and formulations.
The word herbal describes products containing plant-derived ingredients, whereas Unani identifies a particular traditional medical system and its formulations.
Therefore, the terms "Unani" and "herbal" should not automatically be treated as interchangeable.
Are Unani Medicines Herbal?
Some Unani medicines are primarily composed of herbal or plant-derived ingredients, while other formulations may contain minerals or other traditionally used substances.
The ingredients differ according to the formulation.
For this reason, customers should always check the composition and ingredient information of the individual product.
How Can I Choose a Unani Product Online?
When purchasing Unani products online, consider the following:
1. Check the manufacturer
Look for the manufacturer's name and relevant product information.
2. Read the ingredients
Review the composition before purchasing or using the product.
3. Check the expiry date
Do not use a product after its stated expiry date.
4. Check the packaging
Make sure the packaging appears intact and product information is clearly provided.
5. Review directions and warnings
Read the manufacturer's directions, dosage information and precautions.
6. Choose a reliable seller
Purchase from an established seller that provides clear product and business information.
Can I Buy Unani Products Online in India?
Yes. Unani products are available through various online sellers, pharmacies and marketplaces in India.
When purchasing online, customers should look for:
- Product name
- Brand
- Manufacturer
- Ingredients
- Quantity
- Batch information
- Expiry information
- Directions for use
- Applicable warnings and precautions
MedLelo provides an online catalogue of Unani, Ayurvedic, herbal wellness and healthcare products from various brands and manufacturers.
Can I Buy Unani Products From MedLelo?
Yes.
MedLelo is an online healthcare and wellness store in India offering Unani, Ayurvedic, herbal wellness and other healthcare products.
Customers can browse available products by category, brand or product name.
Product availability, pricing and stock may change over time.
For individual products, customers should refer to the product page and manufacturer's packaging for current product information.
Are MedLelo's Unani Products Genuine?
MedLelo aims to supply genuine products obtained through legitimate supply channels.
When an order is received, customers should check:
- Product name
- Brand
- Manufacturer
- Batch number
- Expiry date
- Packaging
- Quantity
- Product information
If an order appears damaged, tampered with or incorrect, customers should contact MedLelo customer support with the relevant order details.
How Should Unani Medicines Be Stored?
Storage requirements vary between products.
Always follow the storage instructions printed on the manufacturer's packaging.
Depending on the product, appropriate storage may require protection from:
- Excessive heat
- Moisture
- Direct sunlight
- Unsuitable environmental conditions
Keep medicines and healthcare products out of the reach of children.
Can Everyone Take Unani Medicines?
Not necessarily.
The suitability of a product can depend on the individual, the ingredients and the intended use.
Before using a Unani product, consider:
- Age
- Existing health conditions
- Current medicines
- Allergies
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Product ingredients
- Manufacturer warnings
If you are unsure whether a product is appropriate for you, consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Can Unani Products Be Taken With Modern Medicines?
Some traditional products may interact with prescription or over-the-counter medicines.
If you take medication or have an existing health condition, speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting a new Unani product.
Do not stop or change prescribed medication without consulting your healthcare professional.
How Do I Choose the Right Unani Medicine?
There is no single Unani product that is appropriate for everyone.
When considering a product, look at:
- Ingredients and composition
- Traditional or intended use
- Manufacturer information
- Directions for use
- Warnings and precautions
- Your individual circumstances
For symptoms that require diagnosis or treatment, consult a qualified healthcare professional rather than selecting a product solely based on an online health claim.
Frequently Asked Questions About Unani Medicine
What is Unani medicine?
Unani medicine is a traditional system of medicine rooted in the Greco-Arabic medical tradition and developed extensively in the Islamic world and South Asia.
What are the common forms of Unani medicine?
Common Unani formulations include Qurs, Habbe, Majun, Khamira, Itrifal, Sharbat and Roghan (oils).
What is Qurs in Unani medicine?
Qurs generally refers to a tablet or compressed solid formulation used in Unani preparations.
What is Habbe in Unani medicine?
Habbe generally refers to a pill or small solid formulation used in traditional Unani preparations.
What is Majun in Unani medicine?
Majun is a traditional semi-solid Unani formulation prepared using powdered ingredients and a suitable base.
What is Khamira in Unani medicine?
Khamira is a traditional semi-solid Unani preparation. Different Khamira formulations have different ingredients and traditional applications.
What is Itrifal?
Itrifal is a traditional Unani formulation commonly prepared using ingredients such as fruits, herbs and other traditionally used substances.
Is Unani medicine herbal?
Not necessarily. Many Unani formulations contain herbs, but Unani medicine is a broader traditional medical system.
Can I buy Unani products online in India?
Yes. Unani products are available through various online sellers and pharmacies in India, including MedLelo, subject to product availability and applicable regulations.
Are Unani medicines safe?
Safety depends on the individual product, ingredients, quality, directions for use and the person using it. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and seek professional advice when necessary.
Can children use Unani medicines?
Children should only use a product when its labeling indicates suitability or when an appropriately qualified healthcare professional recommends it.
Can Unani products be taken with prescription medicines?
Some products may interact with medicines. Consult your doctor or pharmacist before combining them with prescription medicines.
Explore Unani Products at MedLelo
MedLelo provides an online catalogue where customers can discover Unani, Ayurvedic, herbal wellness and healthcare products from different brands and manufacturers.
You can explore products by:
- Unani category
- Brand
- Product type
- Product name
For complete product information, always refer to the individual product page and manufacturer's packaging.
Important Disclaimer
The information in this article is provided for general educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice and should not be used for diagnosing or treating a medical condition.
Descriptions of Unani medicine in this article refer to traditional and historical concepts. They should not be interpreted as scientific proof that a particular product is effective for diagnosing, treating, curing or preventing a disease.
Always read the product label and manufacturer's instructions before using a healthcare product.
If you have a medical condition, take prescription medicines, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are uncertain about whether a product is appropriate for you, consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Learn More About Unani Medicine
If you are new to Unani medicine, start by learning about its traditional principles, formulations and terminology before choosing a product.
MedLelo's goal is to make it easier for customers to discover Unani, Ayurvedic and herbal wellness products online while providing useful product information to help customers make informed purchasing decisions.