Fundamental Concepts
Siddha
Siddhars described 96 principles as the constituents of Human Being. They include Physical, Physiological, Mental and Intellectual components of a person.
They are nothing but the manifestations of the ” Four Basic Elements “.
Disease:
Disease is a condition in which there is imbalance in the “Five Elements, which alters the “Three Humours ” which is also reflected in the seven physical constituents. The change disturbs the equilibrium and cause disease.
The basic concept of Siddha system of medicine is
“Food is Medicine – Medicine is Food”
Saint Thiruvalluvar says
” Miginum Kuraiyinum Noi Seyyum Noolor
Vali Mudhala Enniya Moondru “
“Wind, bile and phlegm three cause disease
so Doctors deem it more or less”
Diagnosis:
“Noi Naadi Noi Mudhal Naadi Athu thanikkum
Vaai Naadi Vayppa Seyal.”
“Test disease, its causes and cure
and apply remedy that is sure”
– Thiruvalluvar.
It is always essential to identify the cause for any disease to be accepted as a ” Scientific method ” The Diagnostic methodology in Siddha Treatment is unique as it is made purely on the basis of the ” Clinical Acumen ” of the Physician. He examines the Tongue, complexion, speech, eyes, palpation in a patient and he also examines the urine and stools. The diagnosis is then confirmed by the ” Pulse Diagnosis “. The above approach is collectively known as ” Eight types of examinations”. However, the Siddha Physician now also accepts the modern diagnostic methods for the purpose of diagnosis.
Treatment:
The following line of treatment have been in practice in Siddha medicine.
- Using medicines like Choornam, Kudineer, Vadagam etc. made of herbs.
- Surgical methods like incision, excision, heat application, blood letting and leech application etc.
- Physiotherapy – Thokkanam and Varma, the Siddha way of Touch therapy, Medicated Oil application , Fomentation, herbal steam bath etc.
- Using medicines like Parpam, Chenduram, Chuxnam etc . made of minerals especially of metals.