Traditional Persian Medicine : A Legacy of Herbal Remedies

Iran and traditional medicine

Iran and Traditional Medicine : A History of Herbal Healing

Many of the advances in medical science and disease treatment have their roots in the efforts of traditional Iranian and Chinese medicine. Although the structures and theories within Iranian traditional medicine and Chinese traditional medicine differ, many modern studies show that the two share significant similarities and have influenced each other.

Introduction to Iranian Traditional Medicine

Iranian traditional medicine refers to the knowledge and practices used since ancient times in diagnosing, preventing, and treating illnesses. It is divided into two branches: theoretical and practical. The theoretical branch deals with the body’s conditions and changes, symptoms, and causes of disease. The practical branch focuses on maintaining health and restoring it after illness.

In this system, physiological functions of the body are evaluated based on seven key elements: elements, temperament (mizaj), humors, organs, faculties, spirits, and functions. Herbal medicine in Iranian tradition emphasizes prevention, considering disease mainly as a result of imbalance between the humors and temperaments.

Prominent Figures of Iranian Traditional Medicine

Many physicians and healers contributed to the foundation of medical science. With creativity and innovation, they played a crucial role in the expansion of traditional medicine. Among the most renowned are Avicenna (Ibn Sina), known for his unique treatments and accurate diagnoses; Rhazes (al-Razi), the pioneer of clinical medicine; and Jurjani, one of the greatest medical authors in Iran and beyond.

• Avicenna (Ibn Sina)

Avicenna, the great Persian scholar known worldwide as the “Prince of Physicians,” was one of the most influential figures in medical science and patient care. Many scientific advances, including in medicine, were founded upon his ideas and hypotheses. His most famous work, The Canon of Medicine, consists of five volumes covering topics such as temperament, character, diseases, pharmacology, pathology, and more.

• Muhammad ibn Zakariya al-Razi

Another highly renowned ancient Persian physician was al-Razi (Rhazes). He is most famous for discovering alcohol and sulfuric acid. Beyond his scientific discoveries, he is recognized as the founder of modern clinical examination in hospitals. His contributions to medicine were extensive, including theories on fractures and dislocations, the role of diet in health, and pediatric diseases.

Rhazes authored 273 books, about 100 of which are dedicated to medicine. His most important works in this field include al-Hawi and al-Mansuri.

What is Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is based on the complementary forces of Yin and Yang. According to TCM, these forces pervade the entire body, and harmony between them leads to health. The body is also believed to possess a vital energy called Qi. Imbalance in Qi results in disease.

Treatments include herbal medicine, massage, acupuncture (for weight loss, energy balance, and healing), and instruction in Chinese medical practices.

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Differences Between Traditional Medicine and Modern Medicine

Traditional medicine and modern medicine are two distinct systems with different approaches, principles, and methods for diagnosing and treating diseases.

• Historical approach

Traditional medicine is rooted in knowledge and experiences passed down through generations, while modern medicine relies on science, technology, and organized research.

• Source of knowledge

Traditional medicine derives knowledge from herbs, natural materials, nutrition, massage, and non-invasive methods. Modern medicine, instead, comes from laboratory research, clinical studies, medical technology, and synthetic drugs.

• Diagnostic methods

Traditional medicine diagnoses based on holistic observation of symptoms, body signals, tongue analysis, pulse, and organ assessment. Modern medicine uses advanced medical tools, lab tests, and imaging techniques.

• Treatment methods

Traditional treatments involve herbs, nutrition guidance, lifestyle changes, massage, acupuncture, and complementary therapies. Modern medicine relies on chemical drugs, surgery, imaging, and technological interventions.

• Perspective on disease

Traditional medicine views disease as a systemic imbalance, aiming to restore harmony in the whole body. Modern medicine often focuses on localized problems in specific parts of the body.

Common Ground Between Iranian and Chinese Traditional Medicine

Balance in the Body

Both systems emphasize balance and harmony. In TCM, diseases arise from disruptions in Qi and imbalance between Yin and Yang. In Iranian tradition, imbalance of temperaments—such as hot and cold—is seen as the cause, and treatments aim to restore this balance. ( medicinal herbs in Iran )

Herbal Medicine

Both traditions use herbs for healing. Plants such as ginseng, licorice, ginger, and borage are commonly used in both systems.

Non-Invasive Treatments

Both traditions apply non-invasive methods such as herbal supplements, acupuncture, cupping, and massage. These natural approaches restore the patient’s condition and strengthen internal systems without chemical drugs.

Attention to Mental and Emotional Health ( Iran and traditional medicine )

Both Iranian and Chinese traditions recognize the role of psychological and emotional factors in disease. Practices such as Qi Gong and Tai Chi in TCM, and breathing exercises, prayer, and spiritual recitation in Iranian tradition, are used to reduce stress and improve mental well-being. Strengthening the patient’s spirit is central to both systems.