The Concept of Anemia in Unani System of Medicine: A Preventive Healthcare Approach

Abstract Anemia is a significant global public health concern, particularly affecting young children, menstruating adolescent girls and women, as well as pregnant and postpartum women. According to the World Health Organization, 40% of children aged 6–59 months, 37% of pregnant women, and 30% of women aged 15–49 years worldwide are anemic. In classical Unani literature, anemia is referred to as Sū’-al-Qinya , derived from the Arabic words “ Su ” meaning “defect” and “ Qinya ” meaning “treasure” or “assets.” Together, they suggest a defect in the body assets. Sū’-al-Qinya implies a decrease in the amount of blood in the body, a change in its composition, and a reduction of the number of Kurriyāt-e-Ḥamra (red blood cells). This paper is intended to elucidate the concept of anemia and its preventive measures in the Unani System of Medicine. A comprehensive review of classical Unani texts was conducted to gain insight into the concept of anemia in the Unani system of medicine and the various Unani remedies for managing this condition. In addition, various research databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and Science Direct were utilized to gather all available information on Sū’-al-Qinya . Iron deficiency anemia is a prevalent nutritional deficiency that predominantly affects women. Unani physicians have long been cognizant of this issue and have employed various iron preparations to address iron deficiency anemia. According to ancient Unani literature, the cause of Sū’-al-Qinya is attributed to the abnormal cold temperature of the liver. Unani physicians have used medications that stimulate the innate heat of the liver to prevent this condition.