Siddha

Siddha is a traditional system of medicine originating in ancient Tamilakam in South India. Traditionally, it is taught that the siddhars laid the foundation for this system of medication. Siddhars were spiritual adepts who possessed the ashta siddhis, or the eight supernatural powers. Nandhisar is considered the first siddha and the guru of all siddhars; the siddha system is believed to have been handed over to him by Lord Shiva.

History

The Siddha science is a traditional treatment system generated from Tamil culture. Palm leaf manuscripts say that the Siddha system was first described by Lord Shiva to his wife Parvathi. Parvathi explained all this knowledge to her son Lord Muruga. He taught all these knowledge to his disciple sage Agasthya. Agasthya taught 18 Siddhars and they spread this knowledge to human beings.

Philosophy

The philosophy of Siddha medicine is sometimes considered to have elements of alchemy and metaphysics. For instance, it is mentioned in the Siddha texts that when the normal equilibrium of the three humors — Vayu, Pitta and Kapha — is disturbed, disease is caused. The factors assumed to affect this equilibrium are environment, climatic conditions, diet, physical activities, and stress. Under normal conditions, the ratio between these elements (Panchabhootas) - earth, water, fire, air, and sky - is 1:2:4:8:16.

Practice

The Siddha medicine system stresses on the patient's safety and the practitioner's knowledge, which must be constantly updated. A typical Siddha practitioner is required to learn and know the Tamil language and must have studied the standard eight-year training course from a recognized Siddha Medical College and be registered with the state's Siddha Medical Council.

See also

• Ayurveda
• Unani
• Homeopathy
• Naturopathy

References

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  Indian Adept (siddha) - Virupa 16th century
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  Siddha idol