Tibb is a system of medicine based on several key principles that address the body holistically and scientifically. One of these principles is the body’s ability to heal itself, known in Tibb terms as Physis. Physis, together with Temperament, which is the recognition of the uniqueness of each individual, are two of the most important building blocks of the Tibb philosophy.
The Tibb philosophy further encourages empowerment of individuals by focusing on self-knowledge that extends to body, mind and soul. Through six lifestyle factors encompassing diet, environment and breathing, sleep patterns, simple physical exercises, emotions, and elimination a person is able to maintain optimum health. “Treatment comes from outside; healing from within".
Tibb regards the body and mind as being strongly interconnected, taking the viewpoint that diseases have physical, emotional as well as environmental elements. If an individual suffers from a particular disease, then Tibb seeks out the underlying causes, rather than just suppressing the symptoms.
Treatments in Tibb include preventative and curative measures aimed at restoring and maintaining health and more importantly coping pro-actively with illness. Tibb treats illnesses, chronic and acute, through prescriptions of diet therapy, lifestyle adjustment, herbal medicine and regimental therapies such as cupping and massage.
Tibb doctors use scientifically based principles together with the practice of care to approach each patient holistically, treating their illnesses at the root. Treatment by a Tibb doctor would be multi-factorial with diet and lifestyle playing as important a role as medication. Tibb doctors also use cupping and massage to great benefit. Tibb has the added advantage of being a completely integrative medical system that works in tandem with other treatment methods and health care professionals.
Ultimately Tibb aims at promoting a healthy lifestyle as opposed to merely providing quick fixes to healthcare. Understanding and practicing the Tibb philosophy will not only ensure optimum health, but will go a long way in minimizing the effect, or delaying the onset of chronic illnesses, so ensuring an improved Quality of Life.
