Manaʿ-e-Ḥaml (Conception Control) in Unani Medicine: An Empirical and Evidence-Based Review

Conception control, also known as birth control, contraception, or fertility regulation, refers to the deliberate use of devices, substances, or procedures to prevent conception following sexual activity.The objectives and practices of contraception are primarily aimed at safeguarding maternal health, ensuring family well-being, and addressing population-related challenges.In the Unani system of medicine, the concept of conception control (Manaʿ-e-Ḥaml) has been recognised and practiced since antiquity through a variety of methods, including oral formulations, pessaries, vaginal douches, suppositories, liniments, and other local applications.These approaches reflect a comprehensive understanding of reproductive physiology as described in classical Unani literature.In the contemporary era, although numerous contraceptive options are available, long-term use of modern hormonal and device-based methods is often associated with adverse effects and limited acceptability among certain populations.This has renewed interest in exploring safer, cost-effective, and culturally acceptable alternatives from indigenous systems of medicine.Classical Unani scholars have documented several medicinal substances and techniques for fertility regulation, including Ruta graveolens (Suddāb), Juniperus communis (Abhāl), Citrullus colocynthis (Shahm-e-Ḥanẓal), Dohn-i-Balsān (Balsam oil), and Dohn-i-Kunjad (Sesame oil), many of which are believed to exert contraceptive or anti-fertility effects.This review critically examines the traditional uses, therapeutic benefits, and modes of application of Unani contraceptive agents, along with available empirical and scientific evidence supporting their efficacy.By bridging classical Unani knowledge with modern research perspectives, the paper aims to highlight the potential role of Unani medicine in the development of effective, safe, and alternative contraceptive strategies.