Evidence Based Assessment of Intermediate State of the Body by Using Scientific Approach of Modern and Conventional Knowledge

ABSTRACT

There are two states of the human body either health or disease which may co-exist, however, there is an intermediate state between extremes of absolute health and total disease with variation in severity of illness. This core concept of Unani medicine regarding states of the body [Ahwal-e-Badan] was initiated by Jalinoos [Galen] who introduced intermediate state and explained its causes further more notion of intermediate state expanded by Ibn Sina who delineated the states of the body ranging from health to disease. According to him the stages of health and disease are radiant health, not absolute health, neither healthy nor diseased, potential illness, slight ill health and absolute disease. The idea of these states of the body now recognized globally. According to World Health Organization [WHO] only 5% of world population is healthy, 20% have various diseases and 75% are living in [Sub Healthy State [ or ] Gray State of Health]. The objectives of this study was to re-defining intermediate state, reconsidering the signs and symptoms, set the laboratory investigations, relating it to the ancient theory of temperament and to established preventive measures. Healthy subjects male [n=13] and females [n=13] between 19-26 years of age were interviewed and examined by random sampling method, using a validated questionnaire which included complete history, general physical and systemic examination, body mass index [BMI] calculation and temperamental assessment. Biochemical analyses of complete blood count and erythrocytes sedimentation rate, lipid profile, liver function test and fasting blood glucose were performed. Temperature [°F], pulse [beats/min] blood pressure [mm Hg], are respiratory rate were measured following standard procedures. The percentages of normal and low BMI were 33.3% whereas high and obese were 16.7%. In both genders, there was a positive correlation between [BMI] and laboratory investigation's remarks and advises. This study revealed the concept of Unani Medicine that, besides the states of health and disease there is also various intermediate state in which one is neither totally sick nor healthy. The role of six essential factors such as Hawa-e-Muheet [Atmospheric air], Makool wa Mashroob [Food and drinks], Harkat wa Sukoon-e-Badani [Physical activity and response], Harkat wa Sukoon-e-Nafsani [Mental activity and response], Naum wa Yaqza [Sleep and wakefulness], Ehtibas wa Istifragh [Retention and elimination] is much more than just the mere avoidance of disease?