Role of Unani Medicine in the Management of Tinnitus (Taneen)

Abstract

The word tinnitus is derived from a latin word ‘tinnire’ which means a “jingle” or “to ring, defined as ringing of sound or noise in the ear by the patient without any external stimulation. This sound may be described by the patient as roaring, hissing, swishing, rustling or clicking type of noise. Unani physicians have defined the tinnitus in the name of Taneen wa Dawi and explained it is a ringing sound in the ear, or a condition in which patient hears non-existing voices. According to Allama Nafees ‘Taneen’ means ‘tasht ki khakhnahat’ and taneen is called where patient hears non-existing voices. This sound may appear continuously or time to time. According to unani physicians diversion of ghaleez akhlat wa riyah (waste material) from the brain towards ear is a causative factors for tinnitus. Malnutrition, dryness, starvation and general weakness also predispose the tinnitus. Unani scholars have described the symptoms like heaviness in ear and head with tinnitus (Taneen), sound in the ear is increased in empty stomach or starvation, the symptoms of general weakness may appear. Unani system of medicine possesses quality approach in the management of tinnitus with use of Ilaj-bil-Dawa (pharmacotherapy), Ilaj-bil-Ghiza (dietotherapy), Ilaj-bil-Tadabeer (regimental therapy) and Ilaj-bil-Yad (manual therapy/surgery). Tinnitus is one of the most complicated conditions to treat through conventional method, so, the material regarding the concept and management of tinnitus from unani system of medicine may be beneficial or helpful through this review paper.