In India, Traditional Arabic or Islamic medicine is widely practiced since ages. It is known as Unani-Tibb in India. “Tibb” means “medicine” while “Unani” means Greek, which show that somewhat of this system of medicine has been adopted from Greece.

This system of medicine came into the existence in early seventh century. During this time the Arab-Islamic world were expanding their empire the Greco-Roman empires. And as a result they came to know about this system of medicine. During that time the medical practice was centered on the works of great Greek physician Galen who lived from 130 to 200 A.D. He was one of first persons who studied anatomy and made many medicines.

The Unani System of medicine has originated from Greece as it is suggested by its name. UNAN means Greece in Arabic, and the term UNANI has been derived from this world.

India was invaded by the Muslims in the eleventh century and with them they brought this system of medicine too. This system of medicine is very popular in the Indian Subcontinent. Most of the Muslim people prefer to this system of medicine as compared to other existing systems. Most of the practices of the system are adopted from the works of tenth century physician of Persia, Ibn Sina. In west, he is known by the name Avicenna. He was a follower of Galen, studied and researched about the three aspects, particularly known as physical, emotional and spiritual. After studying these aspects, he was able to make botanical medicine.

Ayurveda system of medicine influenced Unani-Tibb and vice-versa. In the system the patient is encouraged to adopt a balanced way of life. It makes use of four elements which are earth and water (These are heavy elements) and fire and light (These are light elements).