Classification of Ṣudā (Headache) in Unani System of Medicine

Ṣudā‘(Headache) is one of the most common neurological complaints worldwide and has been extensively described in classical Unani medical literature. In Unani medicine, headache is understood as a manifestation of Sū’-i-Mizāj (dystemperament) or Tafarruq-i-Ittiṣāl(breach in continuity) affecting the structures of the head, including the meninges, vessels, and associated organs. The present study is a narrative review aimed at compiling, analysing, and systematically presenting the classification of headache as described by eminent Unani scholars and physicians. The methodology involved an extensive narrative review of classical Unani texts, including Al-Qānūn fi’l Ṭibb, Kāmil al-Ṣanā‘a, Dhakhīra Khwarazm Shāhī, and Kitāb al-Mukhtārāt fi’l Ṭibb, etc. Headaches were classified based on Asbāb (causes), ‘Alāmāt (signs and symptoms), Maḥall(location), and ‘Alāmāt Al-Waja‘(characteristics of pain), etc. The review identifies 16-28 distinct types of Sudā (headache), each characterised by specific causes, clinical features, and associated symptoms. This detailed classification reflects the holistic and individualised diagnostic approach of Unani medicine, providing a rational basis for targeted therapeutic and preventive strategies. Future research should focus on harmonising classical Unani classifications of Ṣudā‘ with contemporary headache frameworks and validating these categories through clinical and integrative studies, thereby strengthening the evidence base and supporting more individualised and rational approaches to headache management.