Unani Perspective on Covid-19: Historical Insights, Immunity Modulation and Symptomatic Management

Background: - COVID-19, an infectious disease caused by SARS-CoV-2, emerged in December 2019 and rapidly became a global pandemic. Although COVID-19 is not directly mentioned in classical Unani literature, its symptomatology resembles conditions such as Nazla e Wabai and Humma e Wabai. Unani medicine, based on holistic principles and temperamental balance, offers both preventive and therapeutic strategies that align with modern understanding of disease prevention and immunity enhancement and is well documented epidemic conditions in Unani medicine. Objective: - To explore the Unani perspective on epidemic diseases and highlight its preventive and therapeutic approaches relevant to COVID-19-like illnesses. Methods: - A review of classical Unani texts and current recommendations were explored. Symptoms of COVID-19 were compared with those described under Nazla e Wabai and Amraz e Muta'ddiya. Immunity enhancer drugs and compound formulations recommended in the Unani system were compiled. Preventive, dietary and symptomatic management strategies were included, with particular focus on elderly care and general hygiene practices. Results: - Unani medicine attributes epidemics to environmental imbalances affecting bodily humours. The concept of Tabiyat Mudabbira e Badan underlines the body's innate healing capacity. Several single herbs (e.g., Zanjabeel, Asgand) and compound preparations (e.g Khameera Marwareed, Tiryaq e Wabai) are recommended for immune support and symptom management. Dietary guidance, stress relief and hygiene practices are integral to Unani prophylaxis. Conclusion: - Unani medicine offers a holistic approach to epidemic management, focusing on prevention, immune modulation and symptomatic care. These interventions may serve as complementary strategies in pandemic situations like COVID-19.