A correlation of body mass index with different Mizaj

Abstract

Mizaj is a specific entity of unani medicine that is an indicator of preponderance of a specific humour (galba-e-khilt) in the body, on which function and specific character of that body depends moreover Mizaj also has an effect on different body weight. Statements regarding relation between body weight and different Mizaj in ancient unani medical literature suggest that Balghami (Phlegmatic) persons have more fat content while the Safravi (Bilious) individuals are supposed to have lean and healthy body mass. Damvi (Sanguine) personalities have more muscle mass while Saudavi (Melancholic) person possess lean and thin personality. This ancient concept is being used by unani physician in Ajnas-e-Ashra;-a Mizaj diagnostic tool of Unani System of Medicine, to find out the Mizaj of different people. In this study 100 young healthy individual were included. BMI of Each subject was calculated by measuring height in centimeter and weight in kilogram by using standard height and weight measuring methodology and Mizaj of each individual was assessed by using the standard format of Assessment of Mizaj, based on the points of Ajnas-e-Ashra mentioned in classical Unani literature. BMI mean of Damvi Mizaj (22.47 ± 3.64) is highest and BMI of Saudavi Mizaj (18.42 ± 1.87) is the lowest with significant t-test (p