Geriatric care in unani system of medicine a prophylaxis

ABSTRACT

Aging is inevitable and getting old in a healthy way is everybody's dream. Loss of memory, osteoarthritis, cataract, benign prostate hypertrophy, psychological disorders and other degenerative changes are few examples of diseases coming as part and parcel with old age. Unani system of medicine offers certain principles known as Asbab-e-sitta zarooriya or six essential requisites of life. These when kept in balance, not only keep one healthy but delay the process of aging. Apart from this there are recommendations of certain Ilaj-bittadabeer [Regimental therapy], and Ilaj-bil-ghiza [Dietotherapy] to rejuvenate the body system. There are certain drugs in Unani system of medicine which are now proven to have antioxidant properties, used for protection of Hararat-e-ghariziya [Vital Power]. In this paper, all this will be presented in a systematic and practical way under the following headings Asbab-e-sitta zarooriya [Six essential requisites of life] llaj bit tadabeer [Regimental therapy]. Ilaj bil ghiza [Dietotherapy]. llaj bil dawa [Drug therapy]. These when followed will act as a prophylaxis for delaying the process of aging and preventing old age diseases