Measles from the Perspective of Rhazes and Traditional Iranian Medicine: a Narrative Review

Background Measles is a contagious illness with symptoms including fever, cough and rash. Although after the start of vaccination, its mortality rate has decreased significantly, but in some countries, the disease still leads to dangerous complications. Since infectious diseases such as measles has long been of interest to practitioners, in this study the perspective of Traditional Iranian Medicine (TIM) scholars, especially Razi (Rhazes) about measles was examined. Materials and Methods In the present study, we reviewed Rhazes’ viewpoint about symptoms and treatment of measles in the book entitled "Al jodari - Al hasbah", and other TIM books. In addition, using scientific online databases, the latest studies in this regard are investigated. Results Rhazes was the first physician who described measles scientifically in a separate book called "Al jodari - Al hasbah". In addition to the disease symptoms, its complications and treatment strategies that includes three areas of general recommendations, nutritional measures and topical treatments such as laxatives, foods, fruits, vegetables and herbs with cold nature (based on TIM), he also explained the prognosis of the measles according to the division of skin rashes. Some other Iranian medicine scholars such as Avicenna in addition to the mentioning other therapeutic strategies also pointed out the contagious nature of measles. Conclusion Given that some of the diagnostic, therapeutic and preventive perspectives in TIM textbooks, especially Rhazes’ "Al jodari - Al hasbah" have been supported by evidence of new studies, it seems that the opinion of these scientists in the field of infectious and contagious diseases such as measles can be helpful.