Siddha medicine by Dr.M.Jothimuniyandi - Concepts of Siddha Medicine - Five Elements - Three Humors -Herbal and Mineral Treatments- Diagnosis and Treatment-Process of Siddha medicine -Prevention and Health Maintenance
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Dr.M.Jothimuniyandi Assistant Professor Siddha medicine
Siddha medicine Siddha medicine is one of the oldest traditional systems of medicine, originating in South India, particularly in the Tamil-speaking regions. Siddha is based on the teachings of the ancient Tamil sages known as " Siddhars ," who were believed to have attained spiritual insight and deep knowledge of medicine.
Concepts of Siddha Medicine Five Elements ( Panchabhootha ): Siddha philosophy states that everything, including the human body, is composed of five elements—earth, water, fire, air, and ether. These elements must be in balance for good health. Three Humors ( Doshas ): Similar to Ayurveda, Siddha recognizes three vital forces or humors in the body: Vatha (air and ether): Governs movement and the nervous system. Pitta (fire and water): Governs digestion, metabolism, and energy production. Kapha (earth and water): Governs growth, strength, and immunity. Imbalances in these doshas lead to illness.
Concepts of Siddha Medicine Herbal and Mineral Treatments: Siddha medicine uses a wide variety of herbs, metals, and minerals to prepare remedies. Some of the common herbs include kadukkai ( Terminalia chebula ), thoothuvalai ( Solanum trilobatum ), and nilavembu ( Andrographis paniculata ). Diagnosis and Treatment: Diagnosis in Siddha involves examining the patient's body, pulse, tongue, and voice. Treatments focus on balancing the three doshas using diet, lifestyle modifications, and specific herbal or mineral-based remedies.
Concepts of Siddha Medicine Alchemical Preparations: Siddha also employs alchemical substances, such as mercury, gold, and arsenic, carefully processed to be used as medicines, believed to promote longevity and cure chronic diseases. Spiritual Healing: Siddha views health as a holistic concept, involving the body, mind, and spirit. Meditation, yoga, and breathing techniques are integral to the healing process.
Concepts of Siddha Medicine Common Conditions Treated in Siddha Medicine Digestive issues Respiratory diseases (like asthma and bronchitis) Skin conditions Joint pain and arthritis Diabetes and metabolic disorders
Concepts of Siddha Medicine Relevance and Modern Use: Siddha medicine is still widely practiced in South India, especially in Tamil Nadu, where it is officially recognized. There are dedicated Siddha medical colleges and hospitals, and the practice is supported by the Indian government's Ministry of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani , Siddha, and Homeopathy).
P rocess of Siddha medicine The process of Siddha medicine involves several stages, from diagnosis to treatment. Here’s a breakdown of the process: 1. Diagnosis ( Noi Kaali ):Siddha medicine takes a holistic approach to diagnosing diseases. Practitioners assess both physical and psychological factors to determine the underlying imbalance. The key diagnostic methods include: Pulse Examination ( Nadi Pariksha ): The practitioner feels the pulse at three levels to assess the balance of the three doshas ( Vatha , Pitta, and Kapha ). Urine and Stool Analysis: The color , consistency, and other features of urine and stool are analyzed for signs of imbalance or disease.
Process of Siddha medicine Tongue Examination: The color , coating, and appearance of the tongue provide clues about digestion and internal organ health. Voice, Skin, and Eyes: Changes in voice quality, skin texture, and eye clarity can indicate specific conditions. General Examination: Includes checking the patient's diet, lifestyle, mental health, and overall body condition.
Process of Siddha medicine 2. Assessment of the Three Humors ( Dosha Balancing):Once the diagnostic process identifies which humor is imbalanced, the practitioner tailors a treatment plan. The treatment's goal is to bring the humors back into balance to restore health. 3. Treatment ( Maruthuvam ):The treatment in Siddha medicine is based on balancing the humors through natural methods such as diet, lifestyle modifications, herbal medicines, and sometimes, special mineral preparations. The treatment modalities include:
Treatment ( Maruthuvam ) Herbal Medicine ( Mooligai Maruthuvam ): Medicinal plants and herbs are the primary source of remedies. These herbs are processed and prescribed in various forms such as powders, decoctions, pastes, oils, or tablets. Mineral Medicine ( Dhathu Maruthuvam ): Metals like gold, silver, mercury, and minerals are used after undergoing a process called "purification" to eliminate toxicity. These are often used in chronic or severe diseases. Animal Products ( Jeeva Maruthuvam ): Some treatments also include products derived from animals, such as ghee (clarified butter), honey, and animal bones, believed to have healing properties.
Treatment ( Maruthuvam ) Diet and Lifestyle Changes: Diet plays a key role in Siddha treatment. The practitioner prescribes a diet based on the patient's dosha and condition, along with recommended lifestyle changes, such as exercise, sleep, and mental relaxation techniques. Yoga and Meditation: Siddha medicine considers mental health an important aspect of well-being. Yoga and meditation are recommended to balance mental and emotional energy.
Treatment ( Maruthuvam ) 4. Treatment Administration: The remedies are prepared and administered according to the patient's dosha imbalance and disease condition. Depending on the severity, the treatment could last for a few weeks to several months. The practitioner may adjust the treatment plan based on the patient's progress. 5. Prevention and Health Maintenance: Siddha medicine emphasizes prevention through: Seasonal and Dietary Advice: Changes in diet and lifestyle are recommended according to the seasons, as different doshas are predominant in different seasons.
Treatment ( Maruthuvam ) Detoxification: Regular detox methods, including herbal formulations, are suggested to cleanse the body and maintain dosha balance. Rejuvenation Therapy: Special formulations and treatments aimed at enhancing longevity and preventing aging. The process of Siddha medicine focuses on diagnosing imbalances in the body's natural forces and treating them using a combination of herbal, mineral, and lifestyle interventions. The holistic approach of Siddha aims to promote overall health and well-being by addressing both the physical and mental aspects of a person.