Concept of Waram-i-Lawzatayn (Tonsillitis) in Unani system of medicine and modern perspective: A review

Waram-i-Lawzatayn (Tonsillitis) refers to Waram-i-Harr which involves “Halqum” (Throat) and Lawzatayn (Tonsils). Tonsillitis referred to as Waram-i-Lawzatayn in the Unani system of medicine. Some Unani scholars considered Waram-i-Lawzatayn a subtype of Waram-i-Halaq. Unani scholars describe Waram-i-Lawzatayn as a result of humoral imbalances and alteration in the temperament leading to inflammation. Treatment typically involves restoring the balance of humours (Akhlat) through Unani formulations including in the form of Decoction, Lauq, and Sharbat such as Lauq Khayarshanbar, Sharbat Toot Siyah. Some commonly used single drugs include Gul-i-Banafsha (Viola odorata), Unnab (Zizyphus jujuba), and Khatmi (Althae officinalis) known for their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. In Modern medicine tonsillitis is inflammation of pharyngeal tonsils. Many cases of bacterial tonsillitis are caused by Grp A Beta Haemolytic Streptococcus Pyogenes (GABH S). This condition is characterised by symptoms such as sore throat, fever, swollen lymph nodes and difficulty in swallowing. In modern medicine, treatment modalities ranging from analgesics, antipyretics and antibiotics to surgical interventions depending on the root cause of tonsillitis. This review explores the Unani conceptualization of Waram-i-Lawzatayn, its aetiology, clinical features and treatment modalities. Despite the differences in conceptual frameworks and diagnostic and treatment approaches, both Unani and Modern medicine share the common goal of alleviating tonsillitis and addressing its underlying causes. Integrating traditional knowledge with modern medical insights, the paper highlights the relevance of Unani principles in managing tonsillitis effectively.