ABSTRACT
Inkibab (steam inhalation therapy) is a type of ilaj bil Tadbeer (regimental therapy) which is one of the most popular methods of treatment through regimen practiced by ancient Unani scholars since antiquity. In this procedure, boiled plain water or decoction of herbs or therapeutic oils mixed with boiled water is inhaled into the body through the nose or mouth, or both. This procedure was known many thousands of years ago as one of the main therapeutic methods, and is as old as the pyramids and is still used as an effective treatment for a variety of diseases in every country of the world. It is used to relieve symptoms of sinusitis, pollen allergies, and other ear, nose, and throat diseases. A common benefit mentioned by medical professionals is that it reduces congestion, as it breaks up mucus in the airways. This therapy can be indicated alone or in combination with other internal medicines. Further, steam inhalation is perhaps one of the most widely prevalent home-based practices among public and the professionals; based on the perception that warm humidified air provides subjective relief in both upper and lower respiratory symptoms by loosening the respiratory secretion and reduce stress by increase vasodilation. The present literary review was undertaken to integrate the knowledge of steam inhalation therapy in various conditions. Therefore, it is concluded that the procedure of Inkibab is a well-known, cost effective and is an easiest method to apply as a treatment in several conditions.
Keywords: Inkibab, Steam Inhalation Therapy, Effectiveness, Respiratory Secretion.