Avicenna’s views on factors affecting wound healing

Abstract Objectives The use of Iranian traditional medicine has increased over the past decade. The aim of this study is to evaluate Avicenna’s (Iranian ancient physician) measures and treatments used for wounds and ulcers healing. Design A literature review study in which we reviewed the book of Avicenna (Cannon in Medicine) and some other books of ancient Persian physicians and philosophers. Our search method and evidence extract has been chapter based for “Canon” and word based about other books like “Alhavi” of Razi. Results As a result of comparison of Avicenna’s route and new medical findings, everybody can understand that despite restrictions and limitations of Avicenna’s time, many of his believes, measures and recommendations about wounds, are compatible and consistent with new scientific findings. Conclusion Wound healing in the view of Avicenna is a whole body process that the body temperament and wellbeing closely affects it and factors like total body fluids and quality and quantity of blood and the quality of patient’s nutrition may delay or hasten this process. So treatment of ulcers directly depends on local factors like Cleanliness and systemic ones like body nature and temperament and quality of nutrition.