Context:
A combination of ‘Siddha’ drugs can reduce anaemia among adolescent girls, according to a recent study.
Relevance:
GS II: Health
Siddha Medicine
- Siddha medicine is an ancient form of healing that originated in South India, tracing back to around 10,000 BC according to literary evidence from the Sangam Era.
- Predominantly developed by Siddhars from Tamil Nadu, with notable figures like Nandi, Agasthyar, Agappai, and Pumbatti contributing to its practices.
Core Principles and Practices
- Siddhars: These were spiritual masters endowed with special abilities known as ‘siddhis.’ The system’s knowledge has traditionally been passed down from these sages within local communities.
- Holistic Approach: The Siddha system integrates ancient medicinal practices, spiritual disciplines, alchemy, and mysticism. It emphasizes a holistic approach to health, considering the patient’s lifestyle, environmental factors, and personal habits alongside physical symptoms.
- Foundational Elements:
- Panchamahabhootam: This refers to the five basic elements—soil, fire, water, sky, and air—which are integral to both the universe and human constitution.
- Thathuvas and Mukkuttram: Comprising 96 principles and three humors respectively, these form the theoretical basis for diagnosing and treating ailments within Siddha medicine.
- Arusuvai (Six Tastes): These are used to balance the body’s humors through diet and are a key component in treatment strategies.
Therapeutic Applications
- Comprehensive Treatment: Siddha medicine utilizes elements found in herbal, animal, and inorganic substances, including sulfur and mercury, to craft remedies that address a wide range of illnesses.
- Cultural Significance: This system not only serves as a medical practice but also as a cultural heritage that encapsulates the traditional knowledge of Tamil Nadu and its surroundings.
-Source: The Hindu
