Abstract

TAWAZUN-I-HARARAT (THERMOREGULATION) OF HUMAN BODY IN UNANI MEDICINE-A REVIEW

Jamali Muhammad Akhter Hussain*, Siddiqui Uzma, Amir Mohammad, Khan Shakeeb Ahmad, Alam Md. Manzar and Mustehasan

Abstract

Thermoregulation is the maintenance of a relatively constant core body temperature. Tabi‘at is bestowed to everybody which is Mudabbir (supreme planner) of physiological functions. The tool of Tabi’at is Hararat-i-Ghariziyya through which all actions and reactions are accomplished. Being endothermic in nature it plans to remain in a narrow range of temperature despite wide variance with the external environment. The regulation of this action is achieved by involvement of multiple organs and organ systems. Hypothalamus in Dimagh-i- Muqaddam (forebrain) plays key role in this action. It involves receptors like skin, spinal cord, and blood temperature. Hararat (heat) and Burudat (cold) are perceived via these receptors. Based on the information received by these centre, Ahkam (instructions) are relayed to thermostatic centre of brain where decision is taken either for Di‘ani- Hararat (heat loss) or Tawlid-i-Hararat (heat genaration) as per set point through various activities. Heat is gained by Hararat-i-Ghariziyya (Innate heat), Quwa Tabi’ iyya and Riyazat (Exercise), vasoconstriction, contraction of pili motor muscle, huddle position, shivering and lost by radiation, convection, conduction and evaporation. Unani philosophers have dealt with this phenomenon and have described the role played by A ‘da-i-Raisa (vital organs) and its subordinates. This review paper deals with approach of Unani philosophers in context of Thermoregulation.

Keywords: Body Temperature; Tabi‘at (Medicatrix Naturae); Hararat-i-Ghariziyya (Innate heat); Thermoregulation; Unani Medicine.