A review of causes of cancer in Iranian traditional medicine

Seyed Ali Hossein Zahraei; Zahra Golafshan; Mohammad Salmanpour; Maryam Hadi Barhaghtalab

Volume : IX, Issue : VII, July - 2019

A review of causes of cancer in Iranian traditional medicine

Seyed Ali Hossein Zahraei, Zahra Golafshan, Mohammad Salmanpour, Maryam Hadi Barhaghtalab

Abstract :

Background and objectives: Historical records indicate that Iranian physicians are always trying to find ways to detect cancer (as an incurable disease) and eliminate the causes in order to treat or even prevent cancer. This historical liary study attempts to investigate a small part of Iranian Physicians statements about causes of cancer throughout history (3–6th century AD). Search Method: The authors reviewed the cancer statement and it causes in the most famous Iranian traditional medicine books such as Canon, Hedayatalmotealemin and... . Findings: Findings of this study in ancient Iranian texts indicated that various factors involved in cancer: Four humours: According to Avicenna, cancer originates from a burnt mucus/bile material changed into an atrabilious substance. Akhawaini in his book described how cancer is formed in the body. Moreover he talked about mucus, poor consistent mucus, weakness of digestive ability, preparedness of infected member, and digestion problem. Nutrition and drugs: Avicenna in different parts of the Law book points out the role of nutrition in created negative, sickening and deadly mucus. He also talked about carcinogenic substances such as onions, eggplant, beef, and lentils if to be used excessively. Jorjani in his writings also considered nutrition as an effective factor in cancer. For example, he stated that eating too much meat causes cancer in those who are less physically active. Also, warm herbals may stimulate bowel cancer. Environment: Ancient Iranian physicians explained number of cancer was increased in autumn, in contaminated environments, heavy work and insomnia. Location of the lesion and gender: It was said that cancer appears more often in spongy organs. Therefore, east and uterine cancer is more observed in women. Pharynx, testis, penis and intestinal cancer were more observed in men. Conclusion: There are various factors such as four humors, Nutrition, environment and gender for cancer in traditional medicine.