“Asthma” is a Greek (Unani) word meaning “to breath hard”. It is called Zaeeq-un-Nafs in Arabic; and Damah in Urdu. It is an inflammatory disease of lungs, caused by swollen bronchial tubes (airways). It is characterized by variable symptoms of wheezing and breathlessness that may become worse at night or with exercise. In severe cases of Asthma, emergency medical care may be required.
Asthma is considered a phlegm (balghami) disorder that is why sard (cold) and tar (wet) items such as cold water, swimming, ice cream, juices, salads, dairy products, citrus and etc., need to be avoided by Asthma sufferers. Since Unani system of medicine generally treats every disorder based on Ilaj-bil-Zid (treatment by opposite), that is why medicines with a hot and dry khilt (temperament) are strongly suggested in the treatment of Asthma.
Symptoms can be prevented by avoiding triggers, such as allergens and irritants.