JARB (SCABIES) AND ITS MANAGEMENT: A COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW IN THE LIGHT OF UNANI MEDICINE

Dr. Faisel Manzoor*

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ABSTRACT

Jarb (Scabies) is a contagious skin disease caused by a burrowing mite. Intense itching is induced by the mite burrowing into the skin to lay eggs, generally in the area of the wrist, fingers, genitals or feet. The disease is spread by close contact with infected person or from contaminated clothes. It affects hands and wrist (63%), extensor aspect of elbow (10%) and other sites (27%).It is commonly found in densely populated areas and especially in low socioeconomic groups. A comprehensive description of jarb (scabies) is mentioned in classical Unani literature. According to Unani concept, conversion of Khilt-e Dam (Blood) into Khilt-e-Sauda, or increased Khilt-e-Safra in blood or when blood combined with Balgham-e-Shore called Fasad-e Dam and this Fasad-e-Dam (Abnormal blood) acts as a culture media for Ajsam-e- Khabeesa (Pathogenic organisms).There are a lot of Unani drugs (single as well as compound drugs) which is categorized as Musaffiat-e-Dam (Blood purifiers) and Munzijat Wa Mukhrijat-e-Khilt (Coctive and expulsive of abnormal humour) drugs systemically and Maan-e-Ufoomat (Anti-septics) and Daaf-e-Jaraseem (Antimicrobials) drugs locally used in the management of Jarb (Scabies). The present paper describes the detailed concept and management of Jarb (Scabies) in the light of Unani Medicine.

Keywords: Scabies, Jarb, Khilt-e Dam, Khilt-e-Sauda, Khilt-e-Safra.