Saoot Based Unani Intervention in Shaqiqa (migraine without aura): Clinical Outcome in a Single Case Study

Abstract

Shaqiqa (Migraine) is a chronic neurovascular disorder that is acknowledged in both contemporary and Unani medical systems. It manifests as recurrent, unilateral, throbbing headaches often associated with nausea, vomiting, photophobia and phonophobia. From the Unani perspective, migraine is attributed to the predominance and imbalance of specific akhlat (humours), which affect the brain's temperament and function. This case study presents a 34-year-old male driver with a 4-year history of migraine who was managed with a Unani treatment regimen comprising Itrifal Ustukhuddus, Jawarish Tamar Hindi, and Roghan-e-Kaddu (administered as saoot). The patient was assessed on Day 1, 7, 14, 21, and 28 using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) to evaluate changes in headache intensity and associated symptoms. Over the course of treatment, a consistent decline in VAS scores was observed, reflecting a significant reduction in pain severity and improvement in quality of life. No adverse effects were reported, and the patient's dependency on conventional analgesics was minimized. This case highlights the potential of individualized Unani pharmacotherapy in managing shaqiqa (migraine without aura) through correction of humoral imbalance and restoration of mizāj (temperament), offering a safe and integrative alternative to modern pharmacological approaches.