Abstract

EXPLORATION OF FEMALE INFERTILITY: AN INSIGHT FROM UNANI MEDICINE

Dr. Aalia Parween*

Abstract

Infertility is a multifaceted issue that affects people of all societies as a whole, with the prevalence of 16%–37%, in the world, in which female infertility alone accounts for approximately one-third of all infertility cases. In classical Unani literature, infertility is termed as “Uqr” which occurs due to a defect in male mani (sperm) or female mani(ovum) or male and female reproductive organs. Female infertility may be caused by an underlying variety of disorders, such as ovulation disorders, damaged fallopian tubes, cervical disorders and hormonal imbalances. Although various conventional treatments are currently available but also have the limitation of unsatisfactory outcomes and high cost of ART procedures. Due to the negative effects of chemical drugs on reproductive health, high costs of drugs, and modern fertility treatment procedures, the tendency to use herbal medicines is increasing among people. Unani medicine is considered a suitable alternative to conventional medicines because of its phytoestrogenic, antioxidant, utero tonic, ovulationinducing, aphrodisiac & nutritional properties. Various formulations have been mentioned in classical Unani literature for the treatment of uqr, possessing properties like muqawwi rehm, moaiyane hamal, moallide mani. In this regard, the present review provides a comprehensive overview of infertility from the standpoint of Unani medicine, elucidating its etiology, diagnostic approach, and therapeutic interventions. Through an exploration of Unani principles and practices, this paper aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of infertility and inform holistic approaches to its management.

Keywords: Infertility, Herbal, Unani Medicine, Holistic healthcare, Uqr.