Written by Taylor Woosley, Science Writer. Traditional Persian Medicine (TPM), is a holistic healing system that has been practiced for centuries. It is based on a comprehensive understanding of the human body and mind and its relationship with nature.
Traditional Persian Medicine (TPM), also known as Iranian Traditional Medicine, is a holistic healing system that has been practiced for centuries in the region of Persia, now modern-day Iran. It is deeply rooted in the cultural and historical heritage of Iran, dating back to ancient times.
TPM is based on a comprehensive understanding of the human body and mind and its relationship with nature. The principles and philosophies of TPM emphasize the balance between body, mind, and spirit to achieve optimal health and well-being. This ancient healing system draws upon a rich tradition of medical knowledge and practices, combining elements from different civilizations such as Ancient Greece, Ancient Persia, and India. It incorporates various therapeutic modalities, including herbal medicine, dietary interventions, physical therapies, and spiritual practices.
Herbs play a crucial role in Traditional Persian Medicine. They are used extensively for their medicinal properties and are an integral part of treatment plans. Some commonly used herbs include saffron, chamomile, ginger, turmeric, rosemary, and mint.
Traditional Persian Medicine has had a significant historical and cultural influence on the development of medical practices in the Middle East and beyond. Its concepts and principles have been passed down through generations, contributing to the overall understanding of health and well-being.
Understanding Temperament in Traditional Persian Medicine
In Traditional Persian Medicine, the concept of temperament (Mizaj) plays a significant role in understanding well-being. According to TPM, everyone possesses a unique temperament that influences their physical, mental, and emotional characteristics. Additionally, TPM believes that organs in the body are nourished with four types of bodily fluids: blood, phlegm, yellow bile, and black bile1.
TPM recognizes four primary temperaments: sanguine (hot-moist), melancholic (cold-dry), phlegmatic (cold-moist), and choleric (hot-dry). Each temperament is associated with distinct characteristics. The sanguine temperament is characterized by warmth, cheerfulness, and sociability. Melancholic individuals tend to be reflective, introspective, and sensitive. Phlegmatic individuals are calm, relaxed, and often exhibit a serene disposition. Choleric individuals are ambitious, energetic, and assertive.
The temperament of an individual influences their susceptibility to certain diseases and how they respond to treatment2. For instance, sanguine individuals may be more prone to conditions related to excessive heat, while melancholic individuals may experience imbalances related to excessive cold. Phlegmatic individuals may be more prone to sluggishness and congestion, while choleric individuals may be susceptible to imbalances caused by excessive dryness.
In TPM, treatment approaches are tailored to an individual’s temperament. Herbal remedies are commonly used in TPM to restore balance. Various herbs are classified based on their temperament, and specific herbs are chosen to address imbalances associated with a particular temperament. For example, warming herbs such as ginger and cinnamon may be recommended for individuals with a phlegmatic temperament to counteract coldness and sluggishness.
Common Herbs Used in Traditional Persian Medicine
There are numerous popular herbs used in Traditional Persian Medicine, each with its own unique set of medicinal properties. Let’s explore some of the commonly used ones:
Saffron (Hot-Dry): Known as the “Red Gold,” saffron is highly prized for its antioxidant and antidepressant properties. Studies on the major component of saffron, crocin, show positive findings regarding exhibiting beneficial effects on mood disorders and its ability to act as a neuroprotectant3.
Frankincense (Hot-Dry): This aromatic resin is used for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. The active compounds of frankincense, boswellic acids, have been extensively researched for their potential effects on metabolic disease, inflammation, oral health, and microbial infection4.
Lentil (Cold-Dry): Lentils are a delicious and versatile ingredient in Persian cuisine and are packed with essential nutrients such as protein, fiber, and high levels of folate, iron, potassium, and magnesium. Research shows that the high polyphenol content of lentils aids in its ability to improve blood glucose, lipid and lipoprotein metabolism5.
Peppermint (Cold-Moist): Peppermint is a versatile herb that has been used for centuries in traditional Persian medicine. It is commonly used for digestive health because it helps relieve symptoms of indigestion, bloating, and gas by calming the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract, promoting healthy digestion6.
Almond (Hot-Moist): Almonds are a powerhouse of nutrition, rich in healthy fats, including monosaturated fats, along with being an excellent source of protein, fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. One of the key benefits of almonds in TPM is their positive impact on heart health, with the high monosaturated fat content linked to helping reduce bad cholesterol levels7.
Traditional Persian Medicine and Well-being
One of the key aspects of TPM is its emphasis on nutritional strategies and dietary recommendations. In TPM, food is considered medicine, and the right diet plays a crucial role in maintaining health, preventing diseases and preserving or reducing the symptoms of chronic disorders. The principles of TPM recommend consuming a variety of fresh, whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Certain foods, such as pomegranates, dates, saffron, and almonds, are particularly valued for their medicinal properties.
Furthermore, TPM advocates for lifestyle practices that promote health and balance. These practices include regular physical activity, stress management techniques, and adequate sleep. TPM also emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive mindset and cultivating strong social connections.
Posted November 12, 2024.
Taylor Woosley studied biology at Purdue University before becoming a 2016 graduate of Columbia College Chicago with a major in Writing. She currently resides in Glen Ellyn, IL.
References:
- Parvizi MM, Ghahartars M, Jowkar Z, et al. Association of Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer with Temperament from the Perspective of Traditional Persian Medicine: A Case-Control Study. Iran J Med Sci. Sep 2022;47(5):477-483. doi:10.30476/ijms.2021.91265.2239
- Mojahedi M, Mozaffarpur SA, Zaidi SMA, Shirafkan H. The weight of Mizaj (temperament) indices in Persian Medicine: A Delphi study. Caspian J Intern Med. Summer 2023;14(3):513-517. doi:10.22088/cjim.14.3.513
- Sadati SN, Ardekani MR, Ebadi N, et al. Review of Scientific Evidence of Medicinal Convoy Plants in Traditional Persian Medicine. Pharmacogn Rev. Jan-Jun 2016;10(19):33-8. doi:10.4103/0973-7847.176546
- Almeida-da-Silva CLC, Sivakumar N, Asadi H, et al. Effects of Frankincense Compounds on Infection, Inflammation, and Oral Health. Molecules. Jun 29 2022;27(13)doi:10.3390/molecules27134174
- Ganesan K, Xu B. Polyphenol-Rich Lentils and Their Health Promoting Effects. Int J Mol Sci. Nov 10 2017;18(11)doi:10.3390/ijms18112390
- Chumpitazi BP, Kearns GL, Shulman RJ. Review article: the physiological effects and safety of peppermint oil and its efficacy in irritable bowel syndrome and other functional disorders. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. Mar 2018;47(6):738-752. doi:10.1111/apt.14519
- Kalita S, Khandelwal S, Madan J, Pandya H, Sesikeran B, Krishnaswamy K. Almonds and Cardiovascular Health: A Review. Nutrients. Apr 11 2018;10(4)doi:10.3390/nu10040468
