Siddha System Research Articles

A Review on Calotropis Gigantea Latex Used in Skin Conditions

Calotropies Gigantea (Giant Calotropis) It is a multipurpose plant belonging to the family (Apocyanaceae) it has been known for the centuries for its pharmacological importance. This plant found all over India. In Hindi, it commonly known as Arka, Calotropies Gigantea is the one of the plant which has been best natural resources and ancient knowledge for its used. It has been traditionally used for the treatment of various diseases such as Skin diseases, Wound,Burns, Asthma etc. The Latex of the calotropis gigantea is a milky white substance it has many medicinal properties and pharmaceutical value. it’s rich in the bioactive compounds, including cardenolides and terpenoids proteins, tannins, flavonoids,and steroids. The latex have many used in the traditional medicines for many conditons, it includes bleeding, inflammation, pain, and fever. In recent studies it have also explored its potential in treating cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview on its phytochemical, pharmacological, and therapeutic applications of Calotropis gigantea latex, highlighting its potential as a valuable natural remedy. Various pharmacological activities reported like analgesic activity, antipyretic activity, preganancy interceptive activity, anti-inflammatory activity, antifungal activity, Antidermal activity. calotropis gigantea Linn is well-known Healthful herb, it also known as Milkweed, it has been used in Unani, Ayurvedic,and Siddha system of medicines for many years..

A REVIEW ON KAZHARCHI CHOORANAM: A SIDDHA HERBAL MEDICINE FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF SOOTHAGA VAAYU (PCOS)

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder affecting women of reproductive age, characterized by hormonal imbalances, irregular menstrual cycles, hyperandrogenism, and ovarian abnormalities. The Siddha system of medicine provides a holistic approach to managing PCOS by addressing imbalances in the body's four primary components: physical, psychological, moral, and intellectual. One of the key treatments mentioned in Siddha literature for conditions like PCOS (referred to as "Soothaga Vaayu") is Kazharchi Chooranam, a herbal formulation made from Caesalpinia crista (Kazharchikkai) and Piper nigrum (Milagu). This review aims to evaluate the potential therapeutic effects of Kazharchi Chooranam in managing PCOS symptoms. The two main ingredients, Kazharchikkai and Milagu, possess pharmacological properties such as antiandrogenic, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and immunomodulatory effects, which may help alleviate the hormonal and metabolic disturbances associated with PCOS. Scientific studies indicate that Caesalpinia crista may help to regulate reproductive hormones and improve menstrual irregularities, while Piper nigrum exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that support overall health. This formulation, being easily available and safe, could offer a promising alternative treatment for women suffering from PCOS. Further clinical and scientific research is recommended to validate its efficacy and explore its potential as a therapeutic option for PCOS management.

An Evidence-Based Review of Parangipattai Pathangam for its Therapeutic Efficacy

Background: The Siddha system of medicine, integrates ancient philosophy with scientific principles, focusing on the transformation of metals and minerals into nanoparticles through various processes. Parangipattai Pathangam, a Siddha Herbo-mineral sublimate, illustrates this process by sublimating metals like mercury, sulphur, and cinnabar with pretreated Smilax china Linn soaked in various herbal juices to create a fine therapeutic powder. Scientific analysis confirm its stability, acidic nature, and bioactive compounds, validating its long shelf life and diverse applications. Objective: A review of the scientific literature on the ingredients of Parangipattai pathangam was undertaken. Method: This comprehensive assessment involved searching through Siddha literature, unpublished dissertations, Thesis, as well as relevant publications in multiple databases and electronic search engines, including National Library of Medicine (NLM), Pub Med Central, Science Direct, Embase, Mendely, Google scholar. The aim was to gather all pertinent information available on the subject. The pharmacological review highlights its anti-inflammatory, wound healing, and antioxidant activities, which align with traditional Siddha uses. Previous studies on advanced techniques such as HPTLC, FT-IR spectroscopy, SEM-EDS, and TGA characterize Parangipattai Pathangam, revealing particle sizes below 50 nm and a crystalline structure with enhanced bioavailability. Toxicity studies demonstrate its safety in controlled doses. Novelty: This study emphasizes the blend of ancient wisdom and modern scrutiny, offering the potential for contemporary medical advancements while preserving traditional healing practices. Further research aims to expand its therapeutic applications. Keywords: Parangipattai Pathangam, Siddha Sublimate, Siddha, Purification

Review of <i>Siddha</i> Marine Drug - <i>Muthuchippi</i> (Pearl Oyster Shell) for Various Medicinal Properties

The Siddha system of medicine uses an opulent source of plants, metals, minerals, and marine and animal products for the preparation of medicine. The pearl oyster shell is a bivalve mollusc that lives in fresh and saltwater and generates pearls. The three major structural components of pearls are oblong, conchiolin, and calcium carbonate (CaCO3). Recently, interest in developing medications from marine materials has surged. In the fields of cancer, pain, and inflammation, many marine natural compounds are presently undergoing clinical trials. Pearl oyster shell, also known as Muthuchippi, is a key sea-derived medicine in the Siddha system of medicine. These shells include iron oxide, alumina, silica, calcium carbonate, phosphate, and sulfate of calcium and magnesium. Since it has been specially recommended to improve the strength, nutrition, and vitality of weak patients as well as for palpitations, digestion, heart tonic, and appetizer, pearl oysters are important in Siddha medicine. Traditionally, the calcined pearl oyster shell has been used to treat musculoskeletal diseases, anorectal diseases, respiratory diseases, and gastrointestinal diseases due to their high calcium carbonate content. This study aims to review several papers on the therapeutic potential of pearl oyster shells in treating various ailments. A comprehensive search of multiple databases, including PubMed and Google Scholar, yielded several papers for evaluation. According to this study, pearl oyster shells are utilized to cure a wide range of illnesses in all traditional Indian medical systems. Yet, there is scanty scientific data to support the efficacy of numerous indications. To substantiate this significant drug in the research forum, additional in-vitro and in-vivo studies must be carried out.

Cost-Effective Management of Seborrheic Keratosis Using Siddha Medicine

Seborrheic Keratosis (SK), commonly known as seborrheic warts or basal cell papilloma, is a prevalent benign skin tumor that is often removed for cosmetic reasons due to its appearance. These lesions can manifest in various forms and locations on the body, making them a common concern for many individuals seeking dermatological care. Within the Siddha system of medicine, such skin growths are classified as “Marul.” This case report discusses the successful treatment of a 30-year-old male patient diagnosed with SK on the scalp. The patient underwent a comprehensive four-day regimen of Kallani Kalimbu, a Siddha-based topical preparation rich in natural ingredients. Remarkably, this treatment resulted in the complete resolution of the lesion, with no visible scarring and no recurrence noted during follow-up visits over the course of several months. This case underscores the potential effectiveness of Kallani Kalimbu as a minimally invasive and cost-effective therapeutic option for managing SK. While these findings are promising, further studies involving larger controlled trials are essential to validate the efficacy and safety of Kallani Kalimbu for SK and similar skin conditions. Expanding the evidence base through rigorous research could facilitate the integration of traditional Siddha practices into contemporary dermatological treatment protocols, thereby enhancing the overall management of benign skin lesions and improving patient outcomes.

A Case Study on the Therapeutic Efficacy of <i>Suttigai</i> (Thermal Cauterization) in the Management of <i>Kaalani</i> (Corn Foot)

A 45-year-old, moderately built female presented with complaints of a thickened layer of skin in the foot with severe pain for over three years. She was diagnosed to be affected by Corn foot which is equated to Kaalani in the Siddha system of medicine. Corn is a well-defined focal region of hyperkeratosis. As a result of repetitive mechanical stress from friction or pressure forces, corns are formed as thickened skin lesions. Suttigai is one of the treatment modalities indicated for Kaalani in Siddha. Uloga suttigai is superior among all suttigai procedures and an effective treatment for Kaalani which prevents recurrence was chosen to treat corn foot. A Visual Analogue Scale(VAS) was used for the criteria of assessment of pain. The patient was treated successfully by uloga suttigai with the total repair of corn without any unsightly scar or discoloration. No other complications and remissions were found.

THANGA URAM: A DUAL PERSPECTIVE REVIEW OF ITS PHARMACOLOGICAL BENEFITS IN MODERN AND SIDDHA MEDICINE

The Siddha system of medicine uses mineral and metallic compounds for their high bioavailability and efficacy at low doses. Thanga uram (TU) is one such Siddha Metallo-mineral formulation. A review of the scientific literature on the ingredients of Thanga uram (TU) was undertaken. This wide-ranging assessment involved searching through Siddha literature as well as relevant publications in multiple databases and electronic search engines, including Google scholar, Embase, Mendeley, Pub Med Central, Science Direct, and the National Library of Medicine (NLM). The aim was to gather all pertinent information available on the subject. Thanga uram, with its validated antimicrobial, spermatogenic, cognitive enhancement, and styptic properties, and favourable safety profile, stands as a promising Siddha formulation. Its blend of traditional knowledge and scientific validation underscores its potential in contemporary medicine. The pharmacological actions and organoleptic characteristics of the substance align closely with the indications cited in the literature. This congruence suggests that the substance can be effectively utilized in the treatment of various diseases. Its efficacy is supported by both traditional use and modern scientific validation, making it a promising option for therapeutic applications

Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis of Karunkozhi Thylam Prepared as Per Siddha Literature

The Siddha system is a traditional system of south India especially in Tamil Nadu. Thylam (medicated oil) is one of the 32 internal medicines. Karunkozhi thylam (KKT) is used to treat Vatha disease (degenerative disease). Qualitative and quantitative analysis ensures the quality and safety of drugs and minimizing contamination and adulteration risks. Weight/ml, refractive index (RI), density, iodine value (IV), acid value (AV) were analyzed as standardization parameter and GC-MS were employed to identify the active compound and test for heavy metals (lead, cadmium, mercury, arsenic), microbial contamination, test for specific pathogen (E.coli, Salmonella spp., Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa), pesticide residue (organochlorine, organophosphorus, pyrethroids), test for Aflatoxins (B1, B2, G1, G2) were used as a safety measure. The result shows RI was 1.457, density was 1.213g/cm3, IV was 108.12g I/100g and AV was 0.86mg KOH/g. The safety parameters are within the acceptable limit. GC-MS shows the presence of oleic acid and n-hexodeconoeic acid that have anti-inflammatory activity. This study establishes a standardized protocol for KKT, ensuring quality, safety and efficacy. The findings have important implications for regulatory compliance and suggest areas for further research.

Screening of anti-diabetic potential of the siddha formulation sambirani poo kuligai by in-vitro alpha glucosidase enzyme inhibition assay

Background: Noninsulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) is a common disease of the endocrine system caused by the decreased secretion of insulin by the pancreatic Langerhans beta cell or by the lowering of insulin resistance due to excessive absorption of glucose. The Siddha system of medicine is a traditional medical system that uses a scientific and holistic approach to provide preventive, promotive, curative, rejuvenative and rehabilitative health care. According to Siddha literature, diabetes is known as Innippu Neer, Madhumegam and Neerizhivu. The various reasons for the cause of this disease are attributed to foodhabits and lifestyle changes and also due to hereditary causes. One of the therapeutic approaches is to decrease the postprandial hyperglycemia by retarding the absorption of glucose through the inhibition of carbohydrate-hydrolyzing enzymes, such as a-amylase and ?-glucosidase. ?-Glucosidase are enzyme that catalyze the absorption of digested glucose from dietary polysaccharides in the small intestine. Aim: The aim of the present study is to evaluate the anti-diabetic potential of the siddha formulation of Sambirani Poo Kuligai(SPK) by alpha glucosidase enzyme inhibition assay. Method: The spectrophotometric assay method was used to find alpha glucosidase inhibitory activity. Results: SPK showed presence of alpha glucosidase inhibitory potential with the maximum inhibition of about 41.74 ± 3.578 % and the corresponding IC50 is 606.5 ± 49.51?g/ml. Conclusion: This in-vitro study revealed the presence of the alpha glucosidase activity in the siddha formulation Sambirani Poo Kuligai possesses antidiabetic activity

Siddha Management of Geriatric Urolithiasis (Kallataippu- XA) - A Single Case Report

Introduction: Kallataippu (NSMC-XA, Urolithiasis or Nephrolithiasis) is one of the most common emerging urological disorders worldwide with an increasing frequency in geriatric patients (>65 years). Siddha system provides oral medications for the management of urolithiasis which is non-invasive and cost effective. Method: A 68-year-old patient approached the OPD with complaints of episodic flank pain radiating from the loin to the groin region, pain, and an urge to urinate. On interrogation, the patient gave a history of poor water intake. Ultrasound scan of the abdomen revealed the renal calculi measuring 3 mm noted in the mid-pole calyx of the right kidney, 4 mm in the upper pole calyx of the left kidney and the Urinary bladder is partially distended with a 4.0 mm thickened wall. It was diagnosed as Kallataippu (XA- Urolithiasis) based on signs and symptoms and investigational reports. The patient was administered a combination of medicines based on the Siddha line of treatment. Result: In the first follow-up, the patient informed that he experienced moderate pain and disturbance in the urine flow and the first stone was expelled out through urine on the second follow-up. The patient got moderate relief from pain in the abdomen and did not experience dysuria, and the second stone was expelled through urine on the third follow-up. The patient was asked to take CT-KUB on the fourth follow-up. The reported case has a prospective follow-up for 6 months and was found to be free of renal stone-related complaints. Conclusion: The present work suggests that the combination of Siddha drugs markedly worked well on the disintegration and expulsion of the calculi in the geriatric age.

Assessing the Efficacy of Sneha Pottanam (Bundle Application) in Managing Vatha Related Diseases in Children

The Siddha system of medicine offers a holistic approach that addresses not only physical ailments but also the spiritual well-being of individuals. It classifies 4,448 types of diseases and categorizes treatments into two types: internal and external medicines. Pottanam is one of the treatment methods described by Siddhar Therayar in his text ‘Therayar Tharu’. Managing special needs children has become a significant challenge today. Sneha Pottanam, an external therapy mentioned in ‘Pillaipini Vagadam - Part 2’, is particularly used for managing Vatha-related disorders in pediatric cases. Aim & Objective: The aim of this review is to elaborate the efficacy of Pottanam (bundle application) and to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of Sneha Pottanam, as described in ‘Pillaipini Vagadam – Part 2’, for the management of Vatha-related diseases through a comprehensive literature review. Materials & Methods: The review was conducted through Siddha literature, including ‘Pillaipini Vagadam – Part 2’, ‘Gunapadam’, ‘Pathartha Gunachinthamani’, the ‘Manual of Siddha External Therapy’, as well as research articles from Google Scholar and PubMed. Discussion: Siddha literature describes a wide range of external therapies, with Pottanam being a simple yet effective treatment for managing spasticity in Vatha-related diseases and balancing the three humors. This therapy rejuvenates the body and stimulates nerve endings. The ingredients in Sneha Pottanam act intradermally, making it an excellent remedy for special needs children by enhancing the function of motor and sensory receptors. Conclusion: The pharmacological properties and phytocomponents of Sneha Pottanam are highly effective in managing spasticity in special children and balancing the elevated Vatha humor. This review supports further studies on the ingredients of Sneha Pottanam, which could aid in the management of neurological disorders caused by imbalances in the body's three humors.

Experimental Study of Hypolipidemic Effect of Manjal Noiku Kudineer

Hyperlipidemia, is a major stake for the development of serious diseases like atherosclerosis, Coronary Artery Diseases, Stroke. Siddha system of Medicine with the numerous combination of medicines has Manjal Noiku Kudineer(MNK), a Siddha poly herbal formulation indicated for Manjal Noi. This study deals with the Hypolipidemic activity of Manjal Noiku Kudineer on atherogenic diet induced hyperlipidemia in experimental Wistar Albino Rats Place of Study: The study was conducted at Arulmigu Kalasalingam College of Pharmacy, Virudhunagar. Methodology: The study protocol for MNK was reviewed and approved by Institutional Animal Ethics Committee (IAEC), Arulmigu Kalasalingam College of Pharmacy, Virudhunagar, with the IAEC number AKCP/IAEC/10/24-25. The experimental hyperlipidemic diet consists of well-pulverized 400 mg/kg cholesterol, 50 mg/kg cholic acid, and coconut oil. All groups other than the control group were fed the prepared atherogenic meal in lieu of the regular pellet diet. Group I served as normal control, Group II represented hyperlipidemic control rats given an atherogenic diet, Group III and IV represented test groups given MNK 200 mg/kg and MNK 400 mg/kg, respectively, and Group V represented standard-administered atorvastatin (10 mg/kg/day). All groups were compared, observations were noted and the observations were statistically evaluated. Results: The study shows the results of reduction in body weight, blood lipid profile, liver lipid profile of hyperlipidemic rats on treating with the study medicine, which possess hypolipidemic activity. Histopathologic images of rat liver also shown normal parenchyma and parenchyma with minimal necrosis and minimal inflammatory changes on treating with the study medicine MNK. Conclusion: The results stands as a support for MNK hypolipidemic activity, which in turn can be used as a antihyperlipidemic therapeutic agent from the Siddha System of Medicine.

Research output from India's Siddha system of medicine during 1972-2019: Bibliometric analysis points need to focus on quantity and quality.

The Siddha system of medicine (SSM) is one of the Indian Systems of Medicine (ISM). In recent times, it has received adequate support from the Indian Ministry of Ayush. Like many such indigenous systems of medicine globally, the SSM is based on its own theoretical principles, philosophy, and methods of practice. Nevertheless, SSM conducts and needs basic and applied research using scientific methods. Such research is evidenced by research publications. In the absence of a review, we did a bibliometric analysis of research publications from SSM for the period of 1972-2019. We used the term "Siddha" to retrieve the data from the PubMed database. We retrieved data from the National AYUSH research portal and homepages of institutions mandated to do research in SSM. We abstracted bibliometric information and used Epi info (Version 7.2) for analysis. We described the trends and key characteristics. Of a total of 2009 retrieved articles, we included 1457 (73%) for analysis. Between 1972 and 2001, the median number of publications per year was three (range: 0-13). Beyond 2012, the publications increased exponentially with an annual growth of 23%. The maximum number of publications (n = 224) was in 2019. Among 43 countries that produced the papers, India topped it (88%). Of 1457, 1.7% (n = 25) of publications from Siddha institutions were indexed in PubMed. A bibliometric review of research output from SSM suggests that the publications have increased in the last two decades. The review recommends improving research output from SSM in terms of quantity and quality.

THERAPEUTIC EFFICACY OF ASHTABHAIRAVA MATHIRAI IN FEVER MANAGEMENT: A REVIEW

Ashtabhairava mathirai is an herbomineral formulation used in the Siddha system. Its application in treating fever has been described in the Siddha Vaidhiya Thirattu textbook, Hence, a review of the ingredients is essential. This review aims to critically assess the available literature on the indication of Ashtabhairava mathirai in treating fever, its therapeutic potential, and its mechanism of action. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple databases, including Siddha literature. The ingredients of Ashtabhairava mathirai exhibit various pharmacological activities, such, as antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant activity. The study concluded that the multiple actions of ingredients of Ashtabhairava mathirai which is used to treat the condition, fever. These findings support the traditional therapeutic value of Ashtabhairava mathirai in treating 64 types of fever.

ANTI CANCER EFFECT OF THE SIDDHA POLYHERBAL FORMULATION ASWATHY CHOORANAM AGAINST BRCA 1 GENE USING IN SILICO MODEL

India is one among the countries with enormous antiquity of health care practices. Siddha system is the pride of South India with alchemy and enormous spiritual insight in its root. Traditional medicines support primary health care needs of about 70% of Indian population. Cancer is the leading non communicable diseases with high mortality rates in which the abnormal cells divide uncontrollably with a potential to invade other parts of the body. Aswathy chooranam is a polyherbal drug with a potency to cure a wide range of diseases. The constituents are of hot potency and hence can be an effective choice to mitigate Kapha humour which is the main cause for formation of vippuruthi (tumour). The present study is performed in silico to evaluate the anti-cancerous potential of Siddha herbal formulation Aswathy chooranam through inhibition of BRCA 1 genes. Withaferin A, Glycyrrhizin, Gingerenone- A, Piperic acid, Piperine, Grandisin, Myristicin, Picroside I, β-caryophyllene and Vitexin in the formulation are found to have remarkable action against BRCA 1 genes. Compounds such as Withaferin A and Glycyrrhizin are well known for inducing apoptosis of cancer in vitro and in vivo and also in management of post chemotherapy management. Myristicin has potent inhibitory activities on cytokines, chemokines and nitric oxide. Piperine and piperic acid have been reported to have effective chemo preventive activities. The computational analysis shows effective binding against target Breast Cancer gene BRCA1. Hence Aswathy chooranam can be a promising choice for management and treatment of Breast Cancer.

Identifying the molecular mechanisms of action of wound healing properties of Mathan tailam and Mahamegarajanga tailam in Wistar albino rats: Evidence through IL-10/VEGF/TNF-α signalling pathways

The Siddha system of medicine (SSM) is the oldest medical science practised in the ancient period of the southern part of India and Sri Lanka. Many formulations were described for wound healing in the SSM, with specific diagnostic differentiation in the Siddha literature. Most preparations for wound healing were available in the form of oil-based formulations, especially for external usage. Mathan tailam (MT) and Mahamegarajanga tailam (MMRT) have been used by Siddha physicians and traditional practitioners to treat wounds. Mathan tailam is a popular regimen for skin lacerations, burns, skin infections, diabetic wounds, and dermatitis. Mahamegarajanga tailam has long been used by traditional vaidyars to treat cuts and burns. Both MT and MMRT are clinically well-appreciated drugs for wound healing and need to be studied for their mechanisms of action for scientific documentation. In an in vivo study on albino rats -excisional wound model, the histopathological changes, histo-immune response, biomarker analysis, and mRNA expression were studied and analysed. Wounds treated with MT and MMRT healed faster (p < 0.05) than the untreated group (CNT). Histological investigation showed rapid re-epithelialization, dense collagen deposition, increased enzymatic antioxidant activities and decreased lipid peroxidation in the MT and MMRT groups. mRNA expression reveals MT and MMRT-treated tissues able to induce convergent cell motility in wound space. Our study for the first time provides strong in vivo experimental evidence that Mathan tailam and Mahamegarajanga tailam play a crucial role in promoting skin tissue wound healing through IL-6/VEGF/TNF-α mediated mechanisms. Traditional practices continue to teach us valuable lessons, as seen by their continuous use in their locality for years.

Preparation, Quality control and Standardization of a Destructive Distillate &lt;i&gt;Swasakasa Nei&lt;/i&gt; (SKN), A Traditional Siddha Herbal Pharmaceutic for &lt;i&gt;Swasakasam&lt;/i&gt; (Bronchial Asthma)

Standardization is essential to ensure the quality and reliability of traditional medicines. This study aimed to collect, authenticate and purification of raw materials, preparation of &lt;i&gt;Swasakasa Nei&lt;/i&gt; (SKN) according to SOP, and Quality evaluation and Standardization procedures following Pharmacopoeial Laboratory of Indian Medicine (PLIM) guidelines. SKN, prepared as &lt;i&gt;Kuzhithylam&lt;/i&gt;, is used to treat &lt;i&gt;Swasakasam&lt;/i&gt; (Bronchial Asthma) in the Siddha system of medicine. The organoleptic characters of &lt;i&gt;Swasakasa Nei&lt;/i&gt; reveal that SKN was a black, thick semisolid with a smoky odour, greasy consistency, and free-flowing nature drug. Physicochemical analysis showed values for Saponification Value (202.19), Iodine Value (30), Acid Value (7.25%), Peroxide Value (0.58%), Refractive Index (1.462), Specific Gravity (0.9131 g/ml), Loss on Drying (34.17%), Total Fatty Matter (60.18%), Free Fatty Acids (1.06%), and Unsaponifiable Matter (0.98%). The congealing point was 19°C, with no mineral oil and definite oxidation on rancidity. HPTLC fingerprint analysis revealed multiple prominent peaks at various wavelengths. Microbial contamination tests showed no specific microbes, and aflatoxin assays confirmed SKN was free from Aflatoxins B1, B2, G1, and G2. Pesticide residue analysis detected no organochlorine, organophosphorus, or pyrethroids, and heavy metal analysis showed no trace elements or heavy metals. These standards affirm the authenticity, genuineness, and safety of SKN, contributing to its scientific validation.

Customized Integrated Management for Non-Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus (NIDDM) and its Complications: Literature Review and Recommendations for the Future Policy Decisions

Background: Siddha system of medicine is an ancient medical system practised in Dravidian culture. It mainly focused on dietary and lifestyle recommendations along with medications. Non-Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus (NIDDM) is a metabolic disorder that is characterized by high blood glucose in the context of insulin resistance and impaired insulin secretion. Integrated Siddha medicine and modern medicine play a significant contribution in averting and treating NIDDM and its complications. Currently, there is a lack of evidence-supported recommendations for the integrated treatment of NIDDM with Siddha and modern medicine. Hence, developing evidence-based recommendations for NIDDM by integrating both medicines is important. Methods: This recommendation on therapeutic management for NIDDM is based on the Guidelines issued by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus in 2018, Siddha Standard Treatment Guidelines on Non-Communicable Disease (NCD), and other published works of literature in Google Scholar, PubMed, EMBASE. The recommendation includes both pharmacological and non-pharmacological management. Results and Discussion: This review contains standard recommendations in modern medicine and Siddha's evidence-based recommendations for 9 clinical situations, including recommendations for pre-diabetes, severe diabetes, diabetic prevention, diabetic complications, diabetic foot, and diabetes associated with hypertension. This review also includes Siddha's pharmacological management of single herbs, polyherbal formulations, Herbo mineral formulations, external medicines, and non-pharmacological management like Yoga interventions, varmam interventions (physical manipulation), etc. Conclusion: This review provides a guide to clinicians to manage the patients with NIDDM at various levels of severity and complications. Additionally, long-term, high-quality studies are needed to evaluate the effectiveness of integrative medicine in preventing and treating NIDDM and its complications.

Dietary food habits, Varmam, and Yogam for improvement in women’s fertility as per Siddha

Abstract Background: The World Health Organization (WHO) reports say that the prevalence of infertility in India is between 3.9% and 16.8%. The All India Institute of Medical Sciences has estimated that 10% to 15% of couples in India have fertility issues. The traditional Siddha system of medicine cites in its literature on how a girl child can be a healthy fertile female right from her menarche through day-to-day activities and food habits. The primary objective of this study is to assess the relationship between lifestyle, obesity, and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and to identify medicinally valued foods that are easily available to common people, along with Varmam and Yogasanam practices that are helpful in maintaining a healthy female body. The secondary objective is to compare the Varmam points with the daily activities that stimulate these points naturally. Materials and Methods: Traditional Siddha texts like Gunapadam (Mooligai), Varmam, and Yogasanam were used as sources for gathering information on gynecological disorders such as PCOS, amenorrhea, menorrhagia, obesity, and anemia. Results: There are nearly 35 plant families that can be regularly used in our daily diet to enhance the physiological and biological health of women. Additionally, there are nearly 20 Varmam points from Dhasa Nadi and Chakras that stimulate the Vaasi for reproductive health. These Varmam points can be naturally stimulated by daily activities that are incorporated in our traditional customs. There are nearly 10 Yogasanas that stimulate our chakras and help reduce stress. Conclusion: This study provides a broad perspective on managing gynecological disorders influenced by daily activities and explores the scientific basis behind traditional cultural practices.

Management of Mulai Mookadaipu (nasal polyp) with Manjal Kara applications: A case study

Abstract The Siddha system of medicine, one of the oldest and most spiritually rooted healing traditions, integrates external therapies and internal medicines for managing health and disease. Nasal polyps, which commonly affect young and older adults, are closely associated with Mulai Mookadaipu in Siddha medicine. This condition is characterized by the abnormal growth of Oon (muscle) and kozhuppu (fatty tissue) within the nasal passages. This case study focuses on a 50-year-old female patient who presented with symptoms of nasal blockage, difficulties in breathing, and anosmia. Clinical examination revealed left maxillary sinus tenderness and nasal polyps in the left nostril, confirmed by a computerized tomography scan. The patient, who had a history of nasal blockage, had previously undergone allopathic treatment but declined the recommended surgical intervention, Instead, she opted for Siddha medicine, where her condition was treated as a chronic nasal polyp using a combination of nasal applications (Nasiyam and Karam Therapy) and internal medicines. The holistic Siddha treatment approach effectively managed the patient’s symptoms, leading to significant improvement in nasal blockage and breathing.