Dieto-Therapy (Ilaj-bil-ghiza) in Unani System of Medicine: From Concept to Practice in the Management of Non-communicable Diseases

Tarannum .; Mohammad Idris; Paras Wani; Ataur Rehman

Abstract

Unani physicians paid a great attention towards ilaj-bil-ghiza (dieto-therapy). They used to treat a number of ailments by alteration in quantity and/or quality of Ghiza. Their knowledge about its nutritive as well as its pharmacological activity was vast as evident from the Unani classical literature. The classification of Unani drugs is based on medicinal and nutritive values. The former is known as dawa and later is ghiza. Further, a combination of both is classified ghiza-e-dawaee, popularly known today as nutraceutical, an exact translation of Unani pharmaceutical term. These are also prescribed as different ghiza compounded with their method of preparation and therapeutic uses mentioned in the Unani pharmacopoeias. Because ghiza (diet) per se not only provides nourishment and strengthens the body but also possesses pharmacological activity, it can also help in the management of disease (s) and promotion of health. The non-communicable diseases (NCDs), popularly known as life style diseases/disorders are also called as diseases of longevity and diseases of modern civilization. NCD can also be defined as the health problems associated with habit and life style. Epidemiologically, the most common NCDs prevalent in India include diabetes, hypertension, atherosclerosis, cancer, liver diseases, chronic renal failure etc. The modified diet can help in management of NCDs. The aim of this review is to explore the feasibility and significance of dieto-therapy in management and/or treatment of NCDs

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