Description of headache in Unani medicine and its likely categorization according to the International Classification of Headache Disorders

Abstract

Headache is one of the most prevalent neurological disorders worldwide, significantly impacting quality of life. While the International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD) provides a standardized biomedical framework, the Unani system of medicine has historically classified headaches under Ṣudāʿ , with subtypes such as Shaqīqa (migraine), Ṣudāʿ Bārid (cold headache), and Ṣudāʿ Ḥārr (hot headache). This study aimed to correlate the traditional Unani disease category descriptions with modern ICHD-3 criteria. Classical Unani texts, including Al Qanoon fit Tibb, Al Havi al Kabir , and Zakhira Khwarazm Shahi , were systematically reviewed. Definitions and subtypes of Ṣudāʿ were extracted and mapped against ICHD-3 diagnostic categories. Subtypes mentioned that lacked equivalents in either system were documented, and discrepancies were analyzed to propose rational correlations. Unani subtypes demonstrated substantial overlap with ICHD-3 entities. Shaqīqa closely corresponded with migraine, whereas Ṣudāʿ Bārid and Ṣudāʿ Ḥārr paralleled tension-type headache. Other types, such as Ṣudāʿ Shammi (smell-induced) and Ṣudāʿ Khumari (alcohol-induced), mapped onto ICHD-3 categories of headaches attributed to substances. However, unique Unani categories (e.g. Ṣudāʿ Dūdī , worm-induced) lacked ICHD-3 equivalents, whereas modern classifications like new daily persistent headache were absent in Unani texts. The analysis revealed convergence in symptomatology but divergence in explanatory models. Unani emphasizes humoral imbalance and temperament, whereas ICHD-3 is rooted in neurobiology. Integrating both perspectives may enrich diagnostic accuracy, cultural competence, and patient-centered care. Correlating Unani and ICHD-3 headache classifications highlights the complementarity of traditional and modern systems, suggesting potential for integrative approaches in headache management.