The concept of research in Unani system of medicine was originally perceived by Masih-ul-Mulk Hakim Ajmal Khan in the 1920s. A versatile genius of his time, Hakim Ajmal Khan spotted Dr. Salimuzzaman Siddiqui - a chemist 0 for undertaking chemical studies on some important medicinal plants used in Unani medicine. Dr. Siddiqui undertook the task visualized by the Masih-ul-Mulk. Dr. Siddiqui's discovery of medicinal properties of a plant, commonly known as Asrol (Pagal Booti), led to sustained research that established the unique efficacy of this plant, known all over the world as Rauwolfia Serpentina, in neurovascular and nervous disorders, such as hypertension, insanity, insomnia and psychosomatic conditions etc.

Systematic research in various Indian systems of medicine, including Unani medicine, under the patronage of Government of India started in 1969 with the establishment of Central Council for Research in Indian Medicine and Homeopathy (CCRIMH). For almost a decade, research activities in Unani medicine were carried out under the aegis of this council. In the year 1978, the CCRIMH was split into four separate research councils, one each for Ayurveda and Siddha, Unani Medicine, Homeopathy, and Yoga and Naturopathy.