Md Sohel

Hamdard University
Bangladesh

Abstract Title: Unani Medicine: A Greco-Islamic Holistic System in Modern Healthcare

Biography: Md Sohel has completed Bachelor of Unani Medicine and Surgery (BUMS) from Hamdard University, Bangladesh. He is working in this field as a Unani medicine Practitioner. Presently he is Proprietor M/S Rahima of Medical Hall, Cumilla, Bangladesh.

Research Interest: Unani Medicine (Unani Tibb), a traditional healing system with roots in Hippocratic and Galenic principles and refined by Islamic scholars like Ibn Sina (Avicenna), emphasizes balance among the four humors (blood, phlegm, yellow bile, black bile) and four elements (earth, water, fire, air) to maintain health. Central to its philosophy is tabiyat—the body’s innate self-healing capacity—supported by lifestyle interventions addressing air, diet, exercise, rest, sleep, and emotional well-being (asbab-e-sittah-zarooriah) . Recognized by the World Health Organization and integrated into national healthcare systems like India’s AYUSH ministry, Unani employs holistic diagnostics (pulse, tongue, and humor analysis) and multimodal treatments: regimental therapies (cupping, massage), pharmacotherapy (primarily plant-based), diet therapy, and surgery. Clinical applications focus on chronic and lifestyle-related conditions, with high utilization for musculoskeletal (35%) and gastrointestinal disorders (19%). Patients favor Unani for its minimal side effects (47%), though perceived slow efficacy remains a barrier (48%) . Modern research highlights its potential against respiratory infections, including COVID-19, where formulations like Tiryāq-i-Wabā’ī demonstrated immunomodulatory effects, enhancing lymphocyte counts and accelerating recovery in mild-to-moderate cases. Formulations often use saccharide-based vehicles (honey, sugar), which enhance phytoconstituent bioavailability through fermentation—a feature challenged by non-caloric alternatives but pharmacologically significant. Despite promising applications, robust clinical validation remains limited. Studies report efficacy in managing anxiety, metabolic disorders, and epidemic diseases, yet standardization and quality control gaps persist. Contemporary practice integrates spiritual care, particularly in regions like South Africa, where 80% of practitioners emphasize its role in holistic healing. Innovations in digital health platforms aim to improve accessibility, though socioeconomic and infrastructural barriers limit reach. Future directions necessitate rigorous trials, phytochemical standardization, and synergistic integration with biomedicine to leverage Unani’s comprehensive approach to global health challenges.