What is Unani?: Course Fees 2025, Subjects, Top Colleges, Admissions

In India, Unani medicine education follows a structured course format, typically leading to a Bachelor of Unani Medicine and Surgery (BUMS) degree. 

It's important to note that the curriculum might vary slightly among different universities or institutions offering Unani education, but the core subjects and clinical training remain consistent to ensure a well-rounded education in Unani medicine and surgery.

Yes, a degree in BUMS holds significant value, especially for those interested in traditional medicine systems. It offers a comprehensive understanding of Unani medicine, which is a holistic approach to health based on ancient Greek principles.

BUMS graduates can pursue careers as Unani medical practitioners, work in government and private healthcare sectors, or continue with postgraduate studies for specialization.

BUMS is recognised by the Central Council of Indian Medicine (CCIM), and with growing interest in alternative medicine, the demand for Unani practitioners is on the rise.

Candidates can check the benefits of pursuing Unani courses below:

• Holistic Healing: Learn a comprehensive system of medicine that focuses on natural healing and preventive care.

• Traditional Knowledge: Contribute to the preservation and advancement of a time-tested medical practice with centuries of efficacy.

• Herbal Pharmacology: Gain expertise in the use of herbal remedies and natural medicines for treating various health conditions.

• Diverse Therapeutic Techniques: Study a range of traditional therapies, including dietary recommendations and regimenal therapies like cupping and leech therapy.

• Career Opportunities: Explore diverse career paths in healthcare, research, and wellness industries, with a growing demand for alternative and complementary medicine.

Yes, Unani courses in India are regulated and recognised by the Ministry of AYUSH and the Central Council of Indian Medicine (CCIM). Recognition ensures the courses meet national standards for syllabus, training, and practice.

Graduates from recognised institutions are legally eligible to practice as Unani physicians. Recognition also allows students to pursue higher studies, research, and professional development opportunities both nationally and internationally.

Most undergraduate Unani courses require candidates to be at least 17 years old at the time of admission, with an upper age limit often around 25–27 years, though it may vary by state or institution.

For postgraduate courses, age criteria are usually flexible, focusing more on academic qualifications. Certain reservations or relaxations may apply for reserved categories, and students are advised to check specific college guidelines.

Generally, for undergraduate Unani courses like BUMS, students must have completed 10+2 with Science subjects (PCB). Non-science students are usually ineligible at the UG level.

However, Diploma or certificate courses may be more flexible, allowing students from non-science streams to learn the basics of Unani medicine, pharmacology, and preventive care. Postgraduate courses require prior Unani or equivalent healthcare knowledge.

Yes, most Unani postgraduate programs require candidates to have a BUMS degree or equivalent as a prerequisite. Prior knowledge ensures students understand core Unani principles, clinical practices, and therapeutic methods.

This background is essential for advanced study, specialization, and research in areas such as pharmacology, surgery, or internal medicine within Unani. Students without this foundation are usually ineligible for PG admission.

Yes, 7 colleges offer Unani courses in Tamil Nadu which accept NEET scores. They are as follows:

Yes, for admission to Bachelor of Unani Medicine and Surgery (BUMS) courses in India, candidates are required to appear for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET). NEET is the standardized entrance examination conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) for admissions to undergraduate medical courses in various disciplines including MBBS, BDS, BAMS, BHMS, and BUMS among others.

NEET is mandatory for students seeking admission to any Medical or Dental course in government or private colleges across India. 

Here are the key subjects covered in Unani Pharmacy Diploma courses:

• Fundamentals of Unani Medicine
• Unani Pharmacology
• Preparation of Unani Formulations
• Herbal Drug Identification
• Pharmacognosy
• Pharmaceutical Chemistry
• Quality Control of Unani Medicines
• Toxicology in Unani Pharmacy
• Materia Medica in Unani System
• Drug Standardization Techniques
• Pharmaceutical Jurisprudence
• Clinical Pharmacy

The Unani system of medicine, rooted in ancient Greek medicine, was further developed by Islamic scholars and practitioners. It is a holistic medical system that emphasizes balance among the body's four humors—blood, phlegm, yellow bile, and black bile. 

Unani medicine integrates herbal treatments, dietary recommendations, and therapeutic practices to restore and maintain health. It focuses on the individual's overall well-being, considering both physical and mental aspects, and uses natural remedies to address various ailments. This system has been practiced for centuries and continues to be an integral part of alternative medicine in several countries, including India.

Unani courses include hands-on sessions where students learn to prepare and standardize herbal medicines, oils, and decoctions. Practical labs allow students to understand the properties, dosages, and combinations of medicinal herbs.

Students practice grinding, mixing, and compounding remedies under supervision, ensuring accuracy and safety. This practical exposure develops skills in formulation preparation, quality control, and the application of traditional methods in real patient care.

Yes, the Unani curriculum includes the historical development of Unani medicine, its principles, and philosophical foundations. Students study the teachings of prominent scholars and the evolution of therapeutic practices.

Understanding the philosophy helps students appreciate the holistic approach, the balance of humors, and the rationale behind preventive and curative methods. This knowledge forms the basis for integrating traditional wisdom with modern patient care.

Languages Unani courses are typically taught in:

• English

• Urdu

• Hindi

The effectiveness of any medical system, whether Unani, allopathy (modern medicine), Ayurveda, or any other, depends on various factors, including the individual's health condition, the nature of the illness, and the appropriateness of treatment.

Unani is a holistic system that focuses on balancing the body's humors (phlegm, blood, yellow bile, and black bile) to maintain health. On the other hand, Allopathy is primarily evidence-based and uses pharmaceuticals and procedures to treat diseases. Allopathic treatments are often swift in providing relief and are backed by extensive scientific research and clinical trials.

BHMS focuses on homeopathy, which is based on the principle of "like cures like" and uses highly diluted substances to stimulate the body’s healing processes. BUMS, on the other hand, is rooted in the Unani system of medicine, which emphasizes balancing the body's four humours (blood, phlegm, yellow bile, and black bile) through natural remedies, diet, and lifestyle changes.

Choosing which is better depends on personal interest and career goals. BHMS is widely practised in India and globally, with more emphasis on individualistic treatment, while BUMS has a rich historical tradition and is gaining recognition for its use of herbal and natural remedies. 

Yes, a degree in Unani, such as BUMS, holds significant value in India and abroad. It qualifies graduates to practice as registered Unani physicians, contribute to preventive healthcare, and pursue research in traditional medicine.

The degree also opens opportunities for higher studies, specialization, teaching roles, and interdisciplinary collaboration with modern healthcare. Its emphasis on holistic care and natural remedies makes it relevant in contemporary wellness and integrative medicine.

Core practical skills taught in Unani courses:

• Herbal medicine preparation

• Formulation and compounding of drugs

• Patient diagnosis and examination

• Therapeutic techniques (e.g., cupping, massage)

• Clinical case handling

Some valid institutions offering Unani education like Diploma or pro courses are as follows:

Note: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.

Suggested Readings for Unani Course:

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Transfers between Unani colleges are rare and usually depend on university or state regulations. Permission is typically required from both the sending and receiving institutions, along with approval from governing bodies like the CCIM.

Reasons for transfer may include relocation, personal circumstances, or course continuation issues. Students should plan carefully and consult authorities, as transferring can be complex and is not guaranteed.

Candidates can shortlist Unani colleges in the following ways:

• Check availability of well-equipped laboratories and clinical facilities
• Evaluate faculty qualifications and experience in Unani medicine
• Review research programs, publications, and ongoing projects
• Look for library, digital resources, and access to journals
• Assess hospital or clinical affiliations for practical training
• Consider workshops, seminars, and skill development opportunities

To become a doctor in Unani medicine in India, here are the general steps you'll need to follow:

• Educational Qualifications: Complete your higher secondary education (Class 12) with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as main subjects.

• Appear for NEET: Clear the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). 

• Bachelor's Degree in Unani Medicine and Surgery (BUMS): Enroll in a recognised college offering the BUMS program. 

• Internship: After completing the academic coursework, undergo a mandatory one-year internship in recognised hospitals or clinics to gain hands-on experience in different departments of Unani medicine.

• Registration: Register with the State or Central Council of Indian Medicine (CCIM) upon successful completion of the BUMS course and internship. 

• Licensing and Practice: Once registered, you can practice as a licensed Unani doctor, either in your clinic, as part of a healthcare institution, or in a government health setup.

No, there are regulations and legal boundaries regarding the practice of allopathy (modern medicine) by individuals trained in traditional systems such as Unani medicine. In general, practising allopathy without proper certification and registration in allopathic medicine is illegal and could lead to legal consequences.

Unani doctors, who are practitioners of Unani medicine and hold a BUMS degree, are primarily trained in the principles and practices of Unani medicine. According to the law, they are authorized to diagnose illnesses, provide treatments, and prescribe medications based on Unani principles.

No, while a BUMS graduate is a practitioner within the domain of Unani medicine, they are not typically addressed as ‘doctors’ in the same manner as those holding an MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) degree in allopathic medicine. The term ‘doctor’ in the medical context often refers to individuals holding an MBBS or equivalent degree.

In India, a graduate with a BUMS degree is considered a practitioner of Unani medicine. They are authorized to diagnose illnesses, prescribe Unani medicines, and provide treatment based on the principles of Unani medicine.

A practitioner of Unani medicine, especially one who holds a BUMS degree and is licensed to practice, is commonly referred to as a "Unani physician" or a "Hakim" (in Urdu), which translates to "doctor" or "physician" in English. 

They are trained in the principles and practices of Unani medicine and are authorized to diagnose illnesses, provide treatment, and prescribe Unani medications and therapies based on traditional Unani principles.

No, In modern times, the practice of surgery within Unani medicine is limited to specific minor procedures and therapeutic interventions, with major surgeries typically being referred to allopathic specialists.

Regulations and licensing boards also govern the extent of surgical procedures that a Unani physician can perform. It's advisable for patients requiring surgery to consult with specialised surgeons trained in allopathic or modern medical practices for major surgical procedures.