Zeeq un Nafas (Asthma) and their Understanding in the Past: Unani Concept
The Unani System of Medicine pioneered in Greece and was developed by Arabs into an elaborate medical science based on the frame work of the teaching of Buqrat (Hippocrates) and Jalinoos (Galen). Since that time Unani Medicine has been known as Greco-Arab Medicine. This system is based on Hippocratic theory of four humours viz. blood, phlegm, yellow bile and black bile, and the four qualities of states of living human body like hot, cold, moist and dry. They are represented as earth, water, fire and air, the Greek ideas were put by Arabian physician as seven principles (Umoor-e-Tabbiya) and included, element (Arkan), temperament (Mizaj), humours (Akhlat), organs (Aaza), sprit (Arwah), faculties (Qowa) and functions (Afaal). In this system is it believed that, these principles are responsible for the body constitution and its health, as well as, diseased conditions (Ishtiyaq, 1983) The term ‘ZeequnNafas’ is composed of two words ‘Zeeq’ and ‘Nafas’ meaning ‘narrowing’ and ‘breathing’, respectively. In other words, it means difficulty in breathing. ZeequnNafas is mentioned by the ancient physicians and philosophers like Buqrat (Hippocrates – 460 – 377 BC) and Jalinus (Galen – 129–210 AD). Buqrat described this disease as breathlessness. (khan, 2003) In unani classics, Ta’deel- Mizaj (correction of temperament) is required and TanqiaMawad (cleansing of viscous humour), Mulattif, MunaffisBalgham and MukhrijBalgham drugs are recommended. Sometimes Muqi (emetics) are recommended for evacuation of Balgham.Mohallil-e-Auram and Daf- Tashannuj are also recommended. (sena, 1411) In this article authors describe about the concept, risk factors,causes, pathophysiology and classification of Asthma.
