Management of non communicable diseases by siddha system
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Management of non communicable diseases by siddha system
AYUSHDHARA is an international peer-reviewed journal. It focuses on research in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Allopathy, and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
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*G. S. Lekha
Medical Consultant, Scientist –II and i/c, Siddha Central Research Institute (SCRI), Arumbakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
P. Sathiyarajeswaran
Research officer, Scientist –II and i/c, Siddha Central Research Institute (SCRI), Arumbakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: Management of non communicable diseases by siddha system
Year: 2015
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The Siddha System of Medicine is a holistic approach to health that emphasizes the importance of lifestyle in preventing and managing non-communicable diseases (NCDs). This ancient medical practice recognizes the interplay of dietary habits and daily routines with the balance of three humors: Vatham, Pittham, and Kapham. The increasing prevalence of NCDs in modern society is attributed to lifestyle modifications, environmental changes, and dietary habits, which have led to a rise in chronic conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and obesity. The Siddha system proposes various health measures, such as regular physical activity, balanced diets, and temperance in harmful habits, to help combat these health challenges.
The Importance of Lifestyle Management
One of the core principles of the Siddha System is the significant impact of lifestyle management on health. The system advocates for adherence to daily and seasonal regimens that align with the natural rhythms and environmental conditions faced by individuals. This includes practices such as waking up early, engaging in physical exercises, maintaining proper dietary habits, and ensuring adequate sleep quality. Regular physical activity, for instance, is highlighted for its role in improving metabolic functions, enhancing mood, and reducing the risk of various NCDs. The emphasis on lifestyle adjustments reflects the Siddha belief that many diseases stem from the imbalance of the body's natural processes, which can be mitigated by cultivating a disciplined way of life.
Dietary Recommendations in Siddha Medicine
The Siddha system places strong emphasis on diet as both a risk factor and preventive strategy for NCDs. It advocates for food choices that align with climatic conditions and individual body constitution to maintain the equilibrium of the three humors. For example, diets should be adjusted according to seasonal variations, with recommendations for easily digestible food during the rainy season and cooling foods during hot weather. Additionally, the importance of traditional plant-based diets over modern processed foods is underscored, as the latter are often associated with increased health risks. The Siddha approach encourages incorporating a variety of natural ingredients and avoiding harmful additives to promote health and well-being.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Siddha System of Medicine offers a comprehensive framework for the prevention and management of non-communicable diseases through lifestyle and dietary regimens that have been practiced for centuries. By adhering to the principles of Siddha medicine, individuals can address the root causes of NCDs, improve their overall health outcomes, and foster a positive approach to holistic wellness. The relevance of these ancient practices in today's health landscape underscores the need for integrating traditional wisdom with contemporary health interventions to combat the rising burden of NCDs effectively. The system emphasizes that sustainable lifestyle changes can lead to improved quality of life and long-term health benefits.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the Siddha system's approach to managing non-communicable diseases?
The Siddha system advocates a holistic lifestyle approach that includes regular physical activity, a balanced diet, stress management, and adherence to daily and seasonal regimens to prevent and manage non-communicable diseases.
What role does diet play in the Siddha system?
Diet is crucial in the Siddha system, promoting consumption of fresh fruits, vegetables, and seasonally appropriate foods. It emphasizes avoiding processed foods and recommends a balanced intake that corresponds with an individual's body constitution and environmental conditions.
How does Siddha medicine address lifestyle factors affecting health?
Siddha medicine focuses on addressing modifiable lifestyle risk factors like diet, physical activity, and stress. It encourages the cessation of harmful habits like smoking and alcohol consumption to enhance overall health and reduce the risk of diseases.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Management of non communicable diseases by siddha system”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Food:
In the Siddha system, food is considered integral to maintaining health and preventing diseases. The type and quality of food consumed affect the vitiation of the three humours (Vatham, Pittham, Kapha), hence dietary patterns are tailored seasonally and geographically for balance.
2) Siddha:
The Siddha System is a holistic approach to health that emphasizes positive living through daily routines, balanced diets, and lifestyle adherence to principles set by ancient Siddhas. It aims to prevent vitiation of humours (Vatham, Pittham, Kapha) and thereby control non-communicable diseases.
3) Disease:
Siddha identifies diseases based on vitiation in life forces (Uyir Dhathu) and body constituents. Non-communicable diseases are understood as resulting from life-style and dietary imbalances, for which rule-based living as per Siddha principles is advised.
4) Diet:
A balanced diet structured according to Siddha principles includes suitable food items for one's body constitution and seasonal variations. It helps prevent and manage non-communicable diseases by maintaining the equilibrium of the three primary humours.
5) Milk:
Milk is advised in the Siddha system for individuals who are exhausted. It is part of the recommended dietary inclusions depending on individual health needs and seasonal changes, contributing to overall wellness and humour balance.
6) Hygiene (Hygienic):
Hygiene is a cornerstone in Siddha for disease prevention. Daily routines including bathing, oral hygiene, and cleaning of natural orifices are emphasized to maintain balance and health.
7) Blood:
In Siddha, blood quality can be affected by an imbalance in Pittham humour, leading to conditions like hypertension. Proper diet and lifestyle can help maintain haemostasis and prevent blood-related disorders.
8) Vitiation (Vitiated):
Vitiation in Siddha occurs when there is an imbalance of the three humours—Vatham, Pittham, and Kapha—often due to lifestyle and dietary noncompliance. This imbalance leads to various non-communicable diseases like arthritis and hypertension.
9) Cancer:
Certain dietary and lifestyle factors as mentioned in Siddha, like high consumption of processed foods and harmful chemicals, can increase the risk of cancers. Preventive measures include adherence to traditional, balanced diets and hygienic practices.
10) Curd:
Curd is part of the recommended food items in Siddha for maintaining balance. It is used in daily and seasonal diets, but its intake should be regulated according to body constitution and climate to prevent humour imbalance.
11) Kalam:
Kaalam refers to the different seasons in Siddha philosophy. Seasonal regimens are prescribed to adapt lifestyle and diet in sync with seasons, like the diet and lifestyle changes recommended in Vasantha kaalam (spring) to prevent Kapha disorders.
12) Butter milk (Buttermilk):
Butter milk is recommended in Siddha for certain body constitutions and climates. It is advised with meals comprising grains and greens, helping regulate the body’s humours and aiding in digestive processes.
13) Medicine:
The Siddha system of medicine uses herbal and natural remedies to manage diseases. Preventive measures include daily and seasonal regimens, physical activity, and the intake of tailored food and drinks, contributing to the holistic management of non-communicable diseases.
14) Lekha:
Dr. G. S. Lekha is one of the authors of the article, contributing as a Medical Consultant from Siddha Central Research Institute. She highlights the Siddha system's approach to managing non-communicable diseases through lifestyle and diet modifications.
15) Salt (Salty):
Excessive salty food intake is discouraged in Siddha as it can disturb the body's equilibrium, leading to issues like hypertension. Rock salt and other traditional salts are preferred for better health.
16) Substance:
Various substances like pepper, turmeric, and other spices are recommended in the Siddha diet for their health benefits. These substances help maintain humour balance and prevent non-communicable diseases through their specific properties.
17) Nature:
[see source text or glossary: Nature]
18) Asana (Ashana):
Asanas or Yogic exercises are integral to maintaining physical and mental health in the Siddha system. Different asanas target different health issues, like Dhanurasanam for diabetes and Pujankasanam for immune modulation.
19) Death:
Non-communicable diseases, if not managed properly through Siddha principles, can lead to premature death. The focus on lifestyle adjustments aims to reduce morbidity and mortality rates associated with these conditions.
20) Summer:
Seasonal regimen in Siddha includes dietary and lifestyle adjustments during summer, such as residing in ventilated areas and drinking appropriate fluids to balance humours and prevent heat-related ailments.
21) Liquor:
Balanced consumption of liquor is considered in Siddha, with specific types advised based on individual health conditions and seasonal changes to avoid humour vitiation and maintain health.
22) Vattam:
Vatham is one of the three primary humours in Siddha. Its vitiation, often due to improper diet and lifestyle, can lead to diseases like arthritis. Preventive measures include physical activity and balanced diet tailored to individual body constitution.
23) Kapha:
Kapha is a primary humour in Siddha, associated with mucus and stability. Excessive intake of sweet foods can elevate Kapha, leading to obesity. Balancing Kapha through tailored diet and lifestyle is crucial for overall health.
24) India:
The Siddha medical system has its roots in India, particularly in Tamil Nadu, where it is practiced for holistic health management. It forms part of the traditional health systems in the country.
25) Sugar:
[see source text or glossary: Sugar]
26) Birth:
[see source text or glossary: Birth]
27) Tamil:
Tamil refers to the language and culture deeply intertwined with the Siddha system, originating in Tamil Nadu. Ancient Tamil classics detail the dietary and lifestyle practices crucial for health maintenance.
28) Coca:
High fructose corn syrup found in Coca and other sodas can lead to several non-communicable diseases like diabetes and hypertension due to its impact on insulin levels and liver function.
29) Tree:
[see source text or glossary: Tree]
30) Soup:
In Siddha, soups made from vegetables like snake gourd and substances like garlic are advised for their health benefits. They help in balancing humours and maintaining overall health.
31) Sour:
Sour foods in Siddha are advised to be consumed in moderation as they can elevate the Pittham humour, leading to conditions like hypertension if overconsumed.
32) Tiruvalluvar (Tiru-valluvar, Thiruvalluvar):
Saint Thiruvalluvar is quoted in the article for his insights on diet and health, emphasizing that disease arises from imbalances in food consumption which can disturb the equilibrium of humours in the Siddha system.
33) Meditation:
Meditation is part of the Yogic practices recommended in Siddha for mental clarity and stress management. It helps in balancing the mind and relieving stress, contributing to overall health.
34) Tamilnadu (Tamil-nadu):
Tamil Nadu is the Indian state where the Siddha system predominantly thrives. Known for its rich heritage in traditional medicine, Tamil Nadu plays a central role in sustaining and propagating Siddha practices.
35) Colouring (Coloring):
[see source text or glossary: Coloring]
36) Turmeric:
Turmeric is one of the balancing elements in Siddha diet, used for its anti-inflammatory and medicinal properties. It helps in maintaining humour equilibrium and preventing diseases.
37) Pittam (Pittham):
[see source text or glossary: Pitham]
38) Chennai:
Chennai is a city in Tamil Nadu, housing the Siddha Central Research Institute where Dr. G. S. Lekha and her colleagues conduct research on Siddha-based interventions for non-communicable diseases.
39) Camphor:
Camphor is used in Siddha for its antiseptic and cooling properties. It is recommended in water during summer to balance humours and alleviate heat-related ailments.
40) Mineral:
[see source text or glossary: Mineral]
41) Coconut (Cocoanut):
Coconut and its products like oil are used in Siddha for their nutritional and medicinal properties. However, chemically modified forms like Cocamide DEA are discouraged due to their harmful effects.
42) Garlic:
Garlic is a recommended dietary substance in Siddha for its health benefits, including balancing humours and preventing ailments. It can be consumed in various forms such as juices, soups, or as a spice in cooking.
43) Animal:
[see source text or glossary: Animal]
44) Powder:
Herbal powders are used in Siddha for brushing teeth and other hygienic practices, helping to maintain dental health and balance humours.
45) House:
The design and ventilation of a house are significant in Siddha for health. Properly ventilated homes prevent humour vitiations which can lead to chronic diseases, thus ancient houses were built with these principles.
46) Anger (Angry):
Anger is considered a mental aggravation that can lead to humour imbalance in Siddha. Practices like meditation and physical exercises are recommended to manage anger and maintain health.
47) Yoga:
Yoga, including Asanas and breathing techniques, is recommended in Siddha for maintaining physical and mental health. Regular practice helps balance humours and prevent diseases.
48) Nadu:
[see source text or glossary: Nadu]
49) Udal:
Udal Dhathu refers to the body constituents in Siddha, which can be affected by life-style and dietary habits. Maintaining balance in Udal Dhathu is critical for preventing and managing non-communicable diseases.
50) Neem:
Neem is used in Siddha for its medicinal properties and is often planted around homes. It’s used for a variety of treatments including skin conditions due to its anti-bacterial properties.
51) Rice (Rce):
Rice is a staple in the Siddha diet. Its inclusion in daily meals is considered crucial for maintaining humour balance and providing necessary nutrients to the body.
52) Fire:
[see source text or glossary: Fire]
53) Ghi (Ghee):
Ghee is recommended in Siddha for its nourishing properties. It helps balance the humours and is included in the diet along with other items like melted butter and boiled water for a healthy living.
54) Mud:
Mood management is essential in Siddha, where imbalances in humours can be aggravated by negative emotions like stress and anger. Practices like Yoga and meditation are recommended for emotional balance.
55) Ocimum sanctum:
Ocimum sanctum, commonly known as Holy Basil, is valued in Siddha for its medicinal properties. Planting this herb at home ensures its availability for daily or incidental use.
56) Human body:
In Siddha, the human body is seen as a microcosm of the universe. Thus, any changes in diet, lifestyle, or environment can lead to vitiation of the humours and cause diseases.
57) Rock salt:
Rock salt, as recommended in Siddha, is a preferable alternative to refined salt which can cause health issues like hypertension. It helps maintain the humour balance when used in the diet.
58) Mohenjo-daro (Mohenjodaro):
The housing structures in ancient Mohenjo-daro are cited as examples of suitable living conditions that promote health, through features like ventilation and sunlight which help prevent humour vitiation.
59) Tuberculosis:
For individuals suffering from tuberculosis, the Siddha system recommends specific diets, such as intake of flesh soup, to address their particular health needs and aid in humour balance.
60) Malnutrition:
Malnutrition is seen as a significant risk factor for non-communicable diseases in Siddha. Balanced and nutritious diets are crucial for preventing humour vitiation and maintaining health.
61) Snake gourd:
Snake gourd is recommended in the Siddha diet for its health benefits. It can be consumed as juice, soup, or sauce to help in balancing humours and preventing diseases.
62) Agriculture:
Agriculture practices impact health in Siddha. Use of fertilizers and chemicals in farming can lead to health issues. Traditional farming methods are encouraged for producing healthier, non-genetically modified foods.
63) Green gram:
Green gram is considered a healthy cereal in Siddha diet. It is used frequently for its benefits in maintaining humour balance and contributing to overall wellness.
64) Depression:
Depression is managed in Siddha through practices like physical exercise, Yoga, and a balanced diet. These approaches help in reducing stress and improving mental health.
65) Alcoholism:
Long-term alcohol consumption can lead to severe health issues, including liver disease and hypertension, as per Siddha. Consumption should be controlled or ceased to prevent vitiation of humours.
66) Science (Scientific):
[see source text or glossary: Scientific]
67) Fenugreek:
Fenugreek is one of the balancing substances used in Siddha for its medicinal properties. It helps maintain humour equilibrium and is included in the diet to prevent and manage diseases.
68) Liquorice (Licorice):
Liquorice is used in Siddha to purify drinking water and for its medicinal benefits, contributing to humour balance and preventing ailments.
69) Teraiyar:
Theraiyar is noted in Siddha texts for his insights on sleep and early rising. Following his guidelines helps control anger and maintain humour balance, which are crucial for health.
70) Gingelly (Gingelli):
Gingelly (sesame) is recommended in Siddha diets for its health benefits. It helps maintain body constitution and contributes to humour balance, aiding in the prevention of diseases.
71) Euphoria:
Physical exercises in Siddha, including Yoga, lead to the production and release of endorphins, resulting in a state of euphoria. This contributes to better mental health and humour balance.
72) Marutam:
Marutham refers to the fertile croplands in Tamil Nadu, where traditional Siddha medicinal plants and dietary items are cultivated, contributing to the availability of resources for health maintenance.
73) Harappa:
Houses in ancient Harappa had features like ventilation and sunlight, which are recommended in Siddha for optimal health. These structures help prevent humour vitiation and promote longevity.
74) Nostril:
Cleaning the nostrils with practices like Nasiyam in Siddha is important for maintaining hygiene and preventing humour imbalance, aiding in the prevention of respiratory diseases.
75) Kurinci:
Kurinji refers to mountainous regions, one of the geographical classifications in Tamil Nadu. The foods and plants from Kurinji are tailored to the climate and contribute to health as per Siddha principles.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 96]