Abstract Background and Aim: Temperament is an innate attribute that defines individual physiological and psychological traits, although it can be influenced by environmental factors. In Unani Medicine, temperament assessment is central, as disease is believed to result from deviations from an individual’s natural temperament, and treatment is based on restoring it. Ibn Sina proposed ten parameters ( Ajnās ‘Ashara ) for assessing temperament, with special emphasis on muscle and fat composition ( Laḥm wa Shaḥm ). Conventionally, this assessment relies on visual evaluation. This study aimed to determine and compare the somatotypes (body composition) of choleric and phlegmatic individuals using the Heath-Carter anthropometric method and to interpret the findings in light of Unani principles. Materials and Methods: Temperaments of volunteers were assessed using a custom questionnaire based on the ten criteria from the Canon of Medicine . Based on the temperament classification, anthropometric measurements were performed using the Heath-Carter method (1990). Results: The study revealed statistically significant differences in body composition. Phlegmatic individuals showed higher endomorphy (greater fat content), whereas choleric individuals exhibited greater mesomorphy and ectomorphy (more muscular and linear build). These findings align closely with traditional Unani descriptions. Conclusion: The results validate Unani perspectives on temperament and body constitution. This integration of classical theory with modern anthropometry provides a new avenue for objective temperament assessment and may enhance personalized therapeutic strategies in Unani Medicine. Further research is recommended to refine this approach and expand its clinical applicability.
Ali et al. (Wed,) studied this question.