InsomniaArbaq — classical name in Unani

Overview

Sahar, commonly known as insomnia, is characterized by a difficulty in achieving sound sleep. It is defined as an excess of wakefulness and an inability to fall asleep for a duration considered normal for an individual. This condition can manifest in various ways, impacting an individual's ability to rest adequately.

From a Unani perspective, insomnia is understood to arise from an imbalance in the body's humors and temperaments. It can be caused by factors such as mental stress (Fikr-o-Taraddud), impairment of bile (Sue-e-Mizaj-e-Safra), inadequate diet (Qillat-e-Ghiza), indigestion (Fasad-e-Hazm), or an impairment of the hot temperament (Soo-e-Mizaj-Haar). Excessive study (Kasrat-e-Mutala) is also cited as a potential cause.

The Unani approach to insomnia also considers its physical manifestations, which can include disorientation, a feeling of weightlessness in the head, and dryness of the eyes, tongue, and nostrils. In some cases, it may be linked to deep-seated alkaline secretions in the brain, pain, or stress. The Unani principles of treatment focus on restoring moistness (Tartīb, Tadhīn), alleviating pain (Taskīn-i Dard), and promoting both physical and mental rest (Sukūn-i Jismānī o Nafsānī).

Causes According to Unani

• 🧠 Fikr-o-Taraddud (Mental Stress)
• 🔥 Sue-e-Mizaj-e-Safra (Impairment of bile)
• 🍽️ Qillat-e-Ghiza (Inadequate diet)
• 🍽️ Fasad-e-Hazm (Indigestion)
• 🔥 Soo-e-Mizaj-Haar (Impairment of hot temperament)
• 💨 Soo-e-Mizaj Khusk Sada
• 🧠 Kasrat-e-Mutala (Excessive study)
• 🔥 Harārat Sāda (Simple heat)
• 💨 Yubūsat (Dryness)
• 🔥 Safrā’ (yellow bile)
• ⚫ Sawdā’ (Black bile)
• 💧 Balgham Shor or deep seated Rutūbat Būraqiyya (Alkaline secretion) in the brain

Signs & Symptoms Recognised in Unani

• 😴 Excess of wakefulness and inability to fall asleep as long as desired.
• 🧠 Disorientation.
• 🧠 Feeling of weightlessness in the head.
• 👁️ Dryness of eyes.
• 👅 Dryness of tongue.
• 👃 Dryness of nostrils (may be moist when caused by Rutūbat Būraqiyya).
• 💧 Excessive thirst.
• 🔥 Burning sensation in the eyes.

Herbs & Natural Substances

Therapeutic Approaches in Unani

The Unani system of medicine offers a multi-faceted approach to managing Sahar (insomnia), focusing on restoring the body's natural balance. Internally, pharmacotherapy involves the oral administration of specific herbal powders, such as Khashkhāsh and Tukhm-i Kāhū, or in acute cases, preparations of Afyūn with shīrajāt. Inhalation of certain herbal combinations, like moistened seeds of Rayhān Mablūl and Ambergris, is also recommended.

External applications and procedural practices play a significant role in alleviating insomnia. These include the regular use of a Hammam-e-Murattib (humectant bath) and the local application of soothing oils like Almond oil, Roghan-e-Kadoo, Roghan-e-Kahoo, and Lb e-Saba at bedtime. Practices such as Dalak (massage) and Riyazat (exercise) are also encouraged to promote physical and mental well-being.

The core principles of Unani treatment for Sahar aim to address the underlying causes, which often involve dryness and heat in the brain. Tartīb (producing moistness) and Tadhīn (producing moistness through oils) are key therapeutic strategies. Additionally, Sukūn-i Jismānī o Nafsānī (physical and mental rest) is emphasized, alongside Taskīn-i Dard (analgesia) if pain is a contributing factor.

Lifestyle & Daily Routine

• ✅ Maintain normalcy in temperament (E’tidal-e-Mizaj).
• ❌ Avoid anything causing dryness of the brain (Yaboosat-e-Dimagh).
• ❌ Avoid stress.
• ❌ Avoid a sedentary lifestyle.
• ✅ Maintain regular bowel movements.
• ✅ Follow the guidelines of Asbaab-e-Sittah Zarooriya (six essential prerequisites).
• ✅ Try to lay down for sleep at a fixed time daily.
• ❌ Avoid tea and coffee, especially at night.
• ✅ Take dinner at least 4-5 hours before bedtime.
• ✅ Engage in massage (Dalak) and exercise (Riyazat).

Traditional Preparations

Frequently Asked Questions

Community Experiences

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