As a parent, it can be a difficult task to see our children unwell, especially when they experience common childhood illnesses. These illnesses can range from simple colds and coughs to more severe conditions such as asthma, fever, diarrhoea, and vomiting. With the rise of antibiotic resistance and other potential side effects of modern medicine, many parents are looking for alternative options to help their child recover. That is where the Unani approach comes in.

The Unani system of medicine is an ancient Arabic medical tradition that has been practiced for over 1,000 years. It is a holistic approach that seeks to treat the root cause of an illness rather than just the symptoms. The Unani system also emphasizes the importance of a healthy lifestyle, diet, and exercise to prevent illness and maintain overall wellness.

Here are some common childhood illnesses and how the Unani approach can help:

1. Cold and cough: Unani medicine believes that cold and cough are caused by an imbalance of the body’s temperature, known as baltan. Treatment involves correcting the temperature imbalance through herbal remedies and dietary changes. Ginger, honey, and black pepper are commonly used to treat respiratory illnesses.

2. Fever: Fever is the body’s natural defence mechanism when it is fighting an infection. Unani medicine recommends drinking plenty of fluids and using natural remedies such as fenugreek seeds and raisins to reduce fever. A fever-reducing remedy involves boiling one teaspoon of fenugreek seeds and one teaspoon of raisins in two cups of water until it reduces to one cup. Drink a cup of this mixture twice a day until the fever subsides.

3. Diarrhoea: Unani medicine treats diarrhoea by balancing the body’s moisture levels through diet and natural remedies such as pomegranate and caraway seeds. The child is advised to drink plenty of fluids and avoid consuming heavy or spicy foods. Natural remedies such as pomegranate juice and caraway seed water can help soothe diarrhoea.

4. Vomiting: Vomiting is a common symptom of many childhood illnesses. Unani medicine recommends drinking plenty of fluids to replace lost fluids and electrolytes. Ginger, peppermint, and lemon juice are also effective in treating vomiting.

5. Asthma: Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that can be managed through the Unani approach. Treatment involves identifying potential triggers, reducing exposure to allergens, and using herbal remedies such as licorice root and black cumin seeds to reduce inflammation and improve lung function.

The Unani approach can be a safe and effective alternative to modern medicine for treating common childhood illnesses. However, it is crucial to seek guidance from a licensed Unani practitioner before starting any treatment. With the right care and attention, your child can recover quickly and maintain good health.