Introduction
Insomnia, known as Be-Khābi in Unani medicine, is a common sleep disorder characterized by difficulty in falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early. In today’s fast-paced lifestyle, stress, irregular routines, excessive screen time, and poor diet have significantly increased sleep problems across all age groups.
Unlike modern medicine, which often relies on sedatives for temporary relief, Unani medicine treats insomnia from its root cause by correcting temperament (Mizaj), strengthening the nervous system, and restoring natural sleep rhythm.
Understanding Insomnia (Be-Khābi) in Unani Medicine
According to Unani principles, sleep (Naum) and wakefulness (Yaqzah) are governed by the balance of Harārat (heat) and Rutūbat (moisture) in the brain.
Causes of Insomnia in Unani
Unani physicians describe insomnia as a result of:
- Dryness of brain (Yubūsat-e-Dimāgh)
- Excess heat in the brain
- Disturbed temperament (Su-e-Mizaj)
- Mental stress, anxiety, and excessive thinking
- Weak digestion and accumulation of toxins
- Overuse of stimulants (tea, coffee, tobacco)
Types of Insomnia in Unani
- Be-Khābi due to Dry Temperament (Mizaj Yābis)
- Be-Khābi due to Heat (Har Mizaj)
- Be-Khābi due to Nervous Weakness (Zu‘f-e-A‘ṣāb)
- Be-Khābi caused by mental disturbances like grief and fear
Unani Treatment of Insomnia
Unani treatment focuses on Ilāj bil-Ghizā (dietotherapy), Ilāj bil-Dawā (medication), and Ilāj bil-Tadbīr (regimenal therapy).
1. Unani Medicines for Insomnia
Commonly prescribed Unani formulations include:
- Khamira Gaozaban Ambari
- Sharbat Unnab
- Sharbat Banafsha
- Roghan Banafsha (for head massage)
- Jawarish Jalinus
- Habbe Sukoon
Medicines should always be taken under guidance of a qualified Unani physician.
Dietotherapy (Ilāj bil-Ghizā)
Recommended foods that promote sleep:
- Warm milk with a few drops of Roghan Badam
- Barley water
- Pumpkin, bottle gourd
- Sweet fruits like apple and grapes
Foods to avoid:
- Spicy and fried foods
- Tea, coffee, energy drinks
- Late-night heavy meals
3. Regimenal Therapy (Ilāj bil-Tadbīr)
- Head massage with Roghan Banafsha or Roghan Gul
- Foot massage before sleep
- Warm bath at night
- Maintaining fixed sleep timings
Lifestyle & Behavioral Advice
- Avoid mobile and screen exposure before sleep
- Practice light walking after dinner
- Avoid daytime sleeping
- Keep the sleeping environment calm and dark
- Reduce mental stress through prayer, meditation, or deep breathing
Why Unani Medicine is Effective for Insomnia
- Treats the root cause, not just symptoms
- Non-habit forming
- Improves nervous system strength
- Enhances overall health and immunity
- Safe for long-term use when prescribed correctly
Conclusion
Insomnia is not just a sleep disorder but a sign of imbalance within the body and mind. Unani medicine offers a holistic, safe, and effective approach to treating insomnia by restoring natural balance, calming the nerves, and improving sleep quality without dependency.
If you are suffering from chronic sleeplessness, consulting an experienced Unani physician can help you regain healthy and peaceful sleep naturally.
FAQs
Q. Is Unani treatment safe for long-term insomnia?
Yes, when taken under expert guidance, Unani medicines are safe and effective for long-term use.
Q. How long does Unani medicine take to work for insomnia?
Results may be seen within 2–4 weeks depending on severity and lifestyle compliance.