Pharmacological Management of Eczema in Avicenna’s Canon of Medicine
Tārīkh-i pizishkī i.e., Medical History,
Vol. 17 (1404),
6 May 2025
,
Page 1-15
https://doi.org/10.22037/mhj.v17i.46948
Abstract
Background and Aim: Eczema is one of the most common chronic inflammatory skin diseases, characterized by itching, dryness, scaling and recurrent lesions that is significantly impairing patients’ quality of life. Although this disease is not directly mentioned in traditional Persian medicine texts, several skin disorders with similar clinical features have been described, particularly in Avicenna’s Canon of Medicine. This study aims to extract and analyze single and compound medicinal formulations related to eczema-like conditions in the Canon.
Methods: This research was conducted as a library-based qualitative content analysis of second book (Simplices) and fifth book (Compound Prescriptions) of the Canon of Medicine. Key terms such as Ghuba, Saafe, Taghashor-e-Jeld, Baras-e-Aswad and eczema-like conditions were used to identify relevant entries. All recommended remedies were collected, categorized and interpreted.
Ethical Considerations: In this research, honesty and trustworthiness have been maintained in the use of historical sources.
Results: According to the investigations, the most frequently ingredients used to treat eczema-like conditions were vinegar, honey, olive, fumitory, damask rose and salt. Also, Tela has been introduced as the most widely used medicinal form extracted in the treatment of this disease.
Conclusion: Findings suggest that Avicenna’s traditional medical opinions offer a rich foundation for developing safe, natural and plant-based adjunctive therapies for eczema. These insights can inform future pharmacological studies and the design of low-risk topical formulations.
- Persian medicine
- Eczema
- Canon of Medicine
- Avicenna
- Herbal Remedies
- Dermatologic Disorders
How to Cite
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