2025, Vol. 9 Issue 3, Part CPages: 204-208
Rabies in Unani medicine: Prevention and Management
Shaik Yaseen, Mohammed Maqbool Hussain, Juveria Iffath, Khaleda Begum and Mohd Shoeb
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Abstract:
Rabies, also referred to as Hydrophobia, is an acute and almost universally fatal viral infection of the central nervous system, primarily transmitted through the bite of a rabid animal via infected saliva. The causative agent belongs to the Rhabdoviridae family, specifically the Lyssavirus genus, which includes at least seven distinct viral types known to cause rabies. In the Unani system of medicine, this disease is recognized as Daul Kalb. Both domestic and wild animals such as dogs, jackals, foxes, wolves, tigers, bears, horses, mules, and panthers can act as vectors of the virus. Following a bite, the virus impacts the Markazi Nizaam-e-Asaab (central nervous system) by disturbing the balance of the Arkaan (basic bodily elements). Initial local signs include a deep wound that may bleed dark-colored blood and is often accompanied by numbness. As the disease progresses into the prodromal and encephalitic stages, classical symptoms such as Faza’ul Maa (hydrophobia) emerge, indicating systemic involvement. Unani medicine prescribes immediate first aid such as allowing the wound to bleed, cauterizing it with warm ghee, and applying traditional formulations like Tiryaq. Systemic treatment involves internal medications administered after purgation with the latex (milk) of Calotropis procera. Traditional and folk remedies are also widely used across India in managing rabies. Thus, with early intervention and appropriate use of Unani therapies such as the administration of Tiryaq-e-Farooq and purification methods (Musaffiyat) rabies (Daul Kalb) can be effectively managed and possibly prevented when treated promptly after exposure.
