Hammam an ancient principle of health

ABSTRACT

The baths or 'hammams' as they are named, are for many, aspects of health not just for external cleanliness. Hammam [bath] is being used as a method of Ilaj-bil-tadbeer [Regimental therapy] advocated in Unani system of medicine since ages. Hammam refers to bath. Hammam refreshes body by dispersing the superfluities and preparing body for assimilation of food. Moreover it guards against discomfort. Unani physicians have mentioned various types of Hammam for different ailments and plays important role in prevention and promotion of health like Wajaul Mafasil [Arthritis], skin diseases, menorrhagia, liver disease etc. This paper is a review of the history, benefits, therapeutic effects and different types of Hammam used and mentioned by old Unani physicians in classical Unani literature. Hammam will also be discussed in the light of modern medicine