Managing warts (Tha’ālīl) in Unani medicine: A comprehensive review

The prevalent culprit behind warts is the Human papillomavirus (HPV), affecting a significant portion ‎of the population at some juncture in their lives. In Unani medicine, warts are analogous to Tha’ālīl. Diagnosis primarily hinges on clinical examination, typically through visual inspection. Effectively treating warts necessitates both persistence and a discerning approach, tailored to the specific type and location of the ailment; failure to do so may lead to cosmetic complications or recurrence. Indications for intervention encompass factors such as pain, functional interference, aesthetic concerns, and potential malignancy risk. Contemporary medicine provides an array of treatment modalities for this condition. Similarly, Unani medicine outlines diverse therapeutic principles, including internal drug administration, external application of remedies, and parasurgical interventions (e.g., Fasạd (Phlebotomy), Al-Kayy bi’l Adwiya al-Muḥarriqa (cauterization with caustics) and Al-Kayy bi’l Nār (cauterization with heated metals). These indigenous approaches represent minimally invasive procedures and encompass a holistic framework. This review provides valuable insights for practitioners and researchers delving into Unani approaches for Tha'ālīl, offering a concise resource for effective treatment strategies.