Nasal Polyposis: An Integrative Review of Unani and Modern Medicine

Nasal polyps referred to as Bawᾱsῑr al-Anf in Unani system of medicine, are described as an abnormal growth of excess laḥm (flesh or muscular tissue) in the nasal cavity. This development is attributed to the infiltration of Ghalīẓ ḵhilṭ (thick humoral matter) that migrates from the anterior part of the brain, resulting in nasal obstruction and discharge. Nasal polyps are unilateral or bilateral. Polyps typically originate from the ethmoid labyrinth and occasionally from the maxillary antrum. When a polyp arising from the maxillary antrum extends posteriorly into the nasopharynx, it is referred to as an antrochoanal polyp. The exact cause is unknown, but nasal allergy combined with a sinus infection is considered a contributing factor. According to Unani medicine, chronic cold, nasal congestion, dryness of the nose, and poor hygiene may act as aggravating factors. The predominant symptoms include nasal congestion, hyposmia, and postnasal drip. These often occur along with rhinorrhoea, frequent sneezing, and occasionally headaches. In Modern Medicine management typically includes a combination of topical and oral corticosteroids, along with antihistamines, decongestants, and antibiotics. Unani medicine advises a triad of treatments for Bawāsῑr al-Anf: Ilāj‑bil‑Dawā (pharmacotherapy with herbal formulations), Amal‑e‑Kāi (cauterization to purge morbid humours), and Ilāj‑bil‑Yad (surgical excision of the lesion).