1.What types of medicine are used in Unani system of Medicine?
The Unani system of medicine uses drugs which are of Herbo-animo-mineral in origin. So the drugs of Herbal (approx. 90%), Mineral (5-6%) and Animal (4-5%) origin are used either in single form or as compound formulations.
Drugs are formulated into
a.Solid preparations e.g. Hab (Tablet), Qurs (Capsule), Safoof (Powder), Kohl (Micropowder for eye diseases), Marham (ointment and liniment), etc
b.Liquid preparations e.g. Sharbat (Syrup), Joshanda (Decoction), Khisanda (Infusion), Arq (Distillate), Mazmaza (Mouth gargle) etc
c. Aromatic preparations e.g. Inkebaab, Shamoom, Lakhlakha.
2.In compound forms whether the Unani medicines retain the quality and maintain the efficacy of drug and their life?
In Unani medicines, sugar or honey is the base as a preservative. So if the preservative are standard then the drug retains the quality, efficacy .The methods of preparation of compound drugs, preservatives are described in detail in NFUM, Part-I.
3.Are Unani drugs safe?
All the drugs used in compound formulations are safe & non-toxic. These drugs are prepared according to the specific process & methods. Before preparation of Unani drugs toxicity of drugs are kept in mind and so the toxic ingredient are purified and de-toxified. Due to this process the toxicity is reduced to nil and the efficacy remains.
4.How the disease is diagnosed?
Diagnosis is involved investigation of the cause of disease through pulse reading, naked eye examination of urine & stool and through the other conventional methods i.e. auscultation, palpation, percussion with the help of some modern tools.
5.How are principle of management of disease determined?
After diagnosing the disease, Usoole Ilaj (principle of management) of disease is determined on the basis of etiology in the following pattern:
Izalae Sabab (elimination of cause)
Tadeele Akhlat (normalization of humors)
Tadeele Aza (normalization of tissues/organs)
6.Is there an expiry of Unani medicines?
Yes, Unani medicines do have expiry date and it is mandatory to mention the same on label. It is important to check the date of manufacturing and date of expiry on the label before buying medicines.
7.Are there any rigorous diet restrictions to be followed during treatment?
While taking Unani medicines, doctor may advise you to make certain dietary changes. You may be advised to refrain from certain foods and include some others in your diet in accordance with the disease and your body constitution.
Are there any special centres for Regimental Therapy in Delhi Government?
Regimental therapy is available at A & U Tibbia College & Hospital Karol Bagh.