UNANI PERSPECTIVE AND MANAGEMENT OF URTICARIA (SHARĀ): A LITERARY INSIGHT

Urticaria, commonly known as hives, is a prevalent allergic skin disorder characterized by sudden, itchy, raised wheals that vary in size and shape. It manifests due to transient increased capillary permeability, resulting in localized dermal swelling. Clinically, urticaria is classified into acute and chronic types, with further subclassifications such as inducible and spontaneous forms. From the Unani medicine perspective, Urticaria is identified as Sharā, described historically by Hippocrates and elaborated by eminent Unani scholars. Sharā arises from an imbalance and exaggeration of the four humours, specifically sanguine (Damawī), bilious (Ṣafrāwi), phlegmatic (Balghamī), and melancholic (Sawdāwi) vapours, which migrate to the skin surface causing characteristic wheals. Unani texts classify Sharā into types based on the dominating humour, each presenting distinct clinical features and etiologies. The management of urticaria in Unani medicine involves principles of evacuation (Istifrāgh), phlegm and black bile purification (Tanqiya Balgham and Sawdā), and correction of blood temperament (Ta’dil-i Dam). Treatment modalities include herbal pharmacotherapy, topical applications, regimental therapies such as bloodletting (Faṣd), and dietary modifications. This review provides a detailed literary insight into the Unani understanding of urticaria, correlating historical descriptions with modern clinical and pathophysiological knowledge, emphasizing integrative management strategies and preventive care.