Siddha Medicine

Overview of Siddha Medicine

• Siddha medicine is one of the oldest systems of medicine, developed in South India, particularly in Tamil Nadu.
• It is attributed to Siddhars (ancient spiritual scientists) who had profound knowledge of medicine, yoga, and alchemy.

Principle

• This is based on the concept that human body functions are controlled by five elements (Pancha Bhoota) and three humors (Tridosha system):
  1. Vatham (Air)
  2. Pitham (Fire)
  3. Kapham (Water & Earth)

Diagnosis

• Naadi (Pulse Diagnosis)
• Neerkuri (Urine Examination)
• Envagai Thervu (Eight-fold Examination)
• Tongue, Voice, and Eye Observation

Role of Pharmacognosy in Siddha Medicine

1. Herbal and Mineral Identification – Ensuring proper identification of plants like Karisalai (Eclipta alba), Thuthuvalai (Solanum trilobatum) and metals like Mercury and Sulfur.
2. Purification Methods – Pharmacognosy helps in detoxifying minerals before use.
3. Phytochemical Standardization – Chemical analysis of Kashayam (Decoctions), Lehiyam (Paste), and Mathirai (Tablets).
4. Quality Assurance – Preventing contamination and adulteration in herbal and mineral preparations.

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