Non-Pharmacological Management of Heamorrhoids (Bawāsīr) in Unani System of Medicine: A Systemic Review
Abstract
Background: Haemorrhoids, commonly known as (Bawāsīr), constitute a prevalent anorectal disorder characterized by painless rectal bleeding during defecation, often accompanied by prolapsing anal tissue. While several treatment modalities exist, this study focuses on the preventive aspect through Ilāj bi’l Ghidhā’ (dietotherapy), as suggested by Unani medicine. The aim is to review available data and insights from traditional sources. Haemorrhoids, recognized as a lifestyle disorder, are frequently associated with dietary habits prevalent in communities adhering to a Western-style diet, characterized by refined oils and low-fiber content. Despite the pervasive nature of haemorrhoids, their exact ethology remains elusive, surrounded by various myths and misconceptions.
Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted using specific keywords related to haemorrhoids, lifestyle disorders, and dietotherapy. PubMed, Medline, and the Cochrane Library were utilized to extract information from Unani medicine sources and ancient texts.
Discussion: Unani physicians attribute haemorrhoids primarily to sawdāwī mādda (matter), often stemming from the consumption of hot drugs and spicy foods. Key figures like Zakariyyā Rāzī and Ibn Sīnā underscore the role of excessive sawdāwī and sweet substances in haemorrhoid development. Ibn Sīnā recommends easily digestible foods, emphasizing moong ki daal, moong ki khichri, khurfa, kaddu, and mutton soup with minimal spices for haemorrhoid patients. Surgical resection is suggested as a last resort by various Unani physicians, including Abū Bakr Muḥammad ibn Zakariyyā Rāzī, ‘Alī ibn ‘Abbās Majūsī, and Hakim Ajmal Khan.
Conclusion: Unani system of medicine provides a comprehensive approach to ‘Ilāj bi’l Ghidhā’ (dietotherapy) for preventing and managing haemorrhoids. Dietary modifications, including the consumption of easily digestible and cooling foods, emerge as valuable components of this approach. This study contributes to our understanding of traditional Unani practices in preventing and managing haemorrhoids, offering insights for contemporary healthcare strategies. Further research and clinical trials are warranted to validate the efficacy of these dietary recommendations in preventing haemorrhoids and improving overall anorectal health.
Keywords: Haemorrhoids, Bawāsīr, ‘Ilāj-bi’l-ghidhā’, Dietotherapy, Non-pharmacological, ‘Ilāj-bit-Tadbīr, Regimenal therapy
Keywords:
Haemorrhoids, Bawāsīr, Ilāj-bi’l-ghidhā’, Dietotherapy, Non-pharmacological, ‘Ilāj-bit-Tadbīr, Regimenal therapyDOI
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