International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research

E-ISSN: 2582-2160     Impact Factor: 9.24

A Widely Indexed Open Access Peer Reviewed Multidisciplinary Bi-monthly Scholarly International Journal

Call for Paper Volume 8, Issue 2 (March-April 2026) Submit your research before last 3 days of April to publish your research paper in the issue of March-April.

The Biology and Philosophy of stress : An integrative review of contemporary perspectives through unani conceptualization

Author(s) Dr. Syed Sumiya Ara Parveen, Dr. S.A.Khadir Hussaini, Dr.M.A.Lateef Siddiqui, Dr.Amreen, Dr. Meenaz Fathima
Country India
Abstract Stress has become a pervasive aspect of daily life, particularly in the post-COVID-19 era. A 2024 online survey of 1,479 adults in India reported that approximately 85% of individuals experienced moderate stress, while 10% had mild stress and 5% severe stress. Historically, stress research began in the early 19th century with Cannon’s description of physiological responses to nociceptive stimuli and the concept of homeostasis. Selye later defined stress as the non-specific response of the body to any demand. In Unani medicine, stress is understood as an imbalance of humors (Akhlat), particularly Safra and Sauda, resulting from internal and external factors. Pathophysiologically, stress activates the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis and sympathetic-adreno-medullary system, increasing cortisol and catecholamines, which impact metabolism, immunity, and psychological state. Unani concepts emphasize the influence of environmental factors (Hawa), diet (Makool wa Mashroob), bodily and mental activity (Harkat wa Sukoon), sleep patterns (Naum wa Yaqza), and retention/evacuation (Ihtebaas wa Istifragh) on Mizaj (temperament). Excessive stress disrupts physiological and mental equilibrium, manifesting as anxiety, insomnia, fatigue, and cognitive disturbances. Integrating modern and Unani perspectives highlights the importance of lifestyle, diet, sleep, and environmental management for stress prevention and health maintenance.
Keywords Stress, Unani medicine, Humoral imbalance, Mizaj, Safra, Sauda, HPA axis, Cortisol, Anxiety, Insomnia, Sleep, Diet, Environmental factors, Neuroendocrine response, Post-COVID stress, Psychological and physical stressors
Field Medical / Pharmacy
Published In Volume 8, Issue 2, March-April 2026
Published On 2026-04-08
DOI https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2026.v08i02.73775

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