Study of serum vitamin D level in young adults with reference to different mizaj (Temperaments) in Unani medicine

Abstract

Ethnopharmacological relevance: Unani medicine emphasizes the concept of Mizaj (temperament), a foundational principle influencing individual health, disease predisposition, and treatment strategy. The correlation between temperament and modern biochemical markers like serum Vitamin D has not been widely explored [1,2]. Aim of the study: To assess the Mizaj of young adults, evaluate their serum Vitamin D levels, and analyze the correlation between these Unani concepts and biochemical parameters. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive, randomized study was conducted on 70 healthy volunteers aged 19-30 years at A & U Tibbia College, New Delhi. Participants were assessed for Mizaj using a standard proforma [3]. Serum Vitamin D levels were estimated using the Mindray CL-900i Chemiluminescence Immunoassay System. Statistical analysis, including one-way ANOVA and t-tests, was performed using Python. Results: The highest mean serum Vitamin D level was observed in individuals with Safrawi Mizaj (19.32±7.20 ng/ml), followed by Balghami (18.93±8.11), Saudawi (17.83±6.32), and Damwi (14.97±2.78). One-way ANOVA showed a significant difference (p=0.039). Post hoc Tukey and Bonferroni tests revealed a significant difference between Damwi and Safrawi groups (p<0.05). Merging Mizaj into hot (Damwi + Safrawi) and cold (Balghami + Saudawi) groups showed cold Mizaj had a slightly higher Vitamin D mean, though not statistically significant (t = 0.67, p > 0.05). Conclusion: This study highlights a potential link between traditional Unani temperaments and serum Vitamin D levels. Individuals with Safrawi Mizaj displayed the best Vitamin D profile. Findings may contribute toward integrative diagnostic and preventive approaches, although larger sample sizes are needed for conclusive validation.