Nanotechnology in the Unani system of medicine: A comprehensive review and hypothesis

Background

Nanotechnology is an emerging technology which is a game changer for various fields of discipline like medicine, biotechnology, material sciences, and environmental sciences. This is about controlling materials on a nanoscale, where at least one dimension is less than 100 nm (a nanometer). Such technology may lead to smart materials that can be used in construction and other fields.

Objective

To investigate the relationship between nanotechnology and Unani medicine, examining knowledge of nanoscale materials in classical Unani literature and their modern applications in nanomedicine.

Methods

This was done by a narrative review of classical Unani medical writings, and a comprehensive search of scientific databases such as Google Scholar, PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Web of Science up to October 2023. The contributions of scholars including Jābir ibn Ḥayyān (Geber), Zakariyyā Rāzī (Rhazes), Shamsuddīn Undulusī and Ḥakīm Ajmal Khān are reviewed here, particularly their observations on the maximum particle size of a drug intended for medicinal purposes. For example, nanoparticle synthesis techniques such as photolysis, co-precipitation, sol-gel, electrochemical precipitation, and green chemistry were examined due to their implications regarding present nanotechnology.

Results

This study demonstrates that ancient Unani scholars had knowledge of therapeutic potential of metal-based nanoparticles specifically through the use of Kushta (calx) and Sayyāl (dissolved metals) in their medicinal formulations. Such practices are aligned with contemporary nanotechnological principles. The review further elaborates on current approaches of nanoparticles synthesis that mirror traditional Unani methods, especially in the regard of eco-friendly approaches including chemistry green.

Conclusion

This study provides an insight into nanotech being a part of Unani medicine far earlier than modern-day practices, with Kushtasāzī (calcination) and Sayyāl being potential forerunners to modern nanotechnology. However, the adoption of modern nanotechnological techniques into the well-established Unani system leads to tremendous innovation and establishes a link between ancient wisdom and recently developed advanced therapeutic approaches.

Funding statement

This work received no specific funding from any external funding agencies. The study was performed in the Regional Research Institute of Unani Medicine, Patna, using institutional resources and facilities.