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Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is a heterogeneous metabolic disease in which persistent hyperglycaemia arises from impaired insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. Unani literature describes a clinically comparable syndrome as Ziabetus Shakri, recognized by excessive urination, intense thirst, sweet urine, weight loss, and progressive weakness. Classical explanations invoke Sue Mizaj, altered Hararat-e-Gharizi, disturbed Akhlat, and weakness of the renal Quwwat-e-Masika. This narrative review places those concepts beside contemporary endocrinology without treating them as equivalent. It draws on major Unani texts and biomedical literature to compare clinical description, pathogenesis, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment. The strongest point of convergence is practical: both traditions value dietary regulation, physical activity, weight management, individualized care, and prevention of complications. Some plants used in Unani practice show glucose-lowering or antioxidant activity in laboratory and small clinical studies, but products, doses, outcomes, and study quality vary. These interventions should therefore be investigated as possible adjuncts, not replacements for glucose monitoring and evidence-based treatment. Future work needs authenticated ingredients, standardized formulations, interaction and toxicity testing, adequately powered randomized trials, and clinically meaningful long-term outcomes.