The Concept of niqris (gout) and its management in unani system of medicine: A review

Niqris (gout) is a type of Waja' al-Mafasil (arthritis) characterised by recurrent attacks of acute pain and swelling primarily affecting one joint, usually the metatarsal joint of the big toe and small joints of the hand and feet. Gout is one of the oldest known diseases and is referred to as niqris in the Unani system of medicine. According to Galen (Jalinoos) and Rhaze (Zakariya Rhazi, 860-923 A.D.) Arthritis (Wajaul Mafasil), Sciatica (Irq-un-Nisa), and Gout (Niqris) fit in the same group and their different names denote the different areas of affliction. According to Unani theory, pathological changes in the joints are caused primarily by humoral temperament derangement and the accumulation of Morbid material (Mawad-e-Fasida) in the joint spaces. According to renowned Unani Physician Ibn-Hubal, Niqris primarily affect those people who have an excess of Humors (Akhlat) and their bodies are unable to excrete them, causing these humours to accumulate inside the body and around the joints and other tissues. These humours cause an inflammatory response, resulting in an acute flare with pain, swelling, warmth, and redness in affected joints. The goal of this study was to determine the Unani concept described in Unani classical literatures regarding various causes, symptoms, and management of this common arthritic disorder by Renowned Unani Physicians with the goal of spreading knowledge for preventive measures, disease relief, and management of gout by Regimenal therapy and Unani compound formulations, which are not only easily available but also have no side effects on the human body.