‘Mizaj-e-advia’ (Stages of Temperament of Drugs)

The concept of ‘Mizaj-e-advia‘ or ‘stages of temperament of drugs’ in Unani medicine is quite unique. ‘Mizaj‘ means temperament and ‘advia‘ means drugs. So, Mizaj-e-advia means temperament of drugs. It is a way of describing the pharmacological properties of crude drug substances which are derived from plant, animal & mineral sources.

Mizaj (temperament), in Unani, is usually of two categories. One is the mizaj of humans or human conditions; the other is mizaj of advia or drugs.

From the history of Unani treatments, it has been found that even disease has different levels of ‘soo-e-mizaj‘ (dystemperament). When a drug with strong mizaj is used in a disease of strong soo-e-mizaj the results are positive and the treatment becomes successful. If this balance between the mizaj of drugs and disease is disturbed then the results are negative and treatment becomes unsuccessful.

Based on this theory, the experts of Unani medicine have divided the drugs into following four degrees:-

1. AWWAL ( First degree) 

2. DUWWAM ( Second degree) 

3. SUWWAM ( Third degree)

4. CHARAM ( Fourth degree)

The following principles are to be followed while allotting ‘Mizaj-e-advia‘ or degree to a drug:

• It should be tested on a person whose mizaj is motadil (moderate).
• The weather should be motadil or close to motadil during testing.
• The dosage should be calculated and given in correct quantity. 
• Over use of medicine should be avoided.

AWWAL (FIRST DEGREE):

When these drugs are taken they create a new kaifiyath (quality/condition) within the body which is higher than the normal but is not strong enough to be felt or distinguished by the body. However after continuous use of such drugs changes maybe felt.

DUWWAM (SECOND DEGREE):

When these drugs are taken they create a new kaifiyath within the body which is higher than normal and are strong enough to be felt or distinguished by the body. However these changes do not effect the persons daily routine like sleep, appetite, rest, exercise etc. These drugs act on body fluids. If the drug is haar yabis (hot & dry), there is loss of appetite and insomnia. But when it is barid ratab (cold & moist), sleep and appetite are increased.

SUWWAM (THIRD DEGREE):

When these drugs are taken they create a new kaifiyath within the body which is higher than normal and is strong enough to be felt or distinguished by the body. However these changes will effect the persons daily routine. Continous use of these drugs will be harmful to the body. They act on body fluids as well as fat components but are not dangerous.

CHARAM (FOURTH DEGREE):

When the drugs of fourth degree are taken, they create a new kaifiyath within the body which is very strong and far higher than normal. Sometimes, It can destroy the body and may lead to death. Many poisonous drug substances are also included in this category. They are called as ‘simmi advia‘ (poisonous drugs).

So, it’s very important to use these medicines cautiously and after proper consultation from qualified Unani practitioner only.

Dr. Shaik Muzahid, 

Dr. Abdul Haq Unani Medical College.