Literature review on kudiveri noi (chronic alcoholism) in Siddha medicine
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Literature review of kudiveri noi (chronic alcoholism) in siddha system of medicine
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Uthrapathi S., Vasanth Miltonraj, Mahalakshmi V., Muthukumar N. J. and Banumathi V.
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Full text available for: Literature review of kudiveri noi (chronic alcoholism) in siddha system of medicine
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr201817-13395
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The Siddha system of medicine, one of the oldest traditional medical practices in India, addresses a plethora of health issues, ranging from physical ailments to psychiatric disorders. A significant topic explored within this system is Kudiveri Noi, commonly associated with chronic alcoholism, referred to in some texts as Mathathyam. This condition results from excessive alcohol consumption and manifests through various psychological and physiological symptoms, such as tremors, nausea, anxiety, and auditory hallucinations. This review aims to delve into the literature surrounding Kudiveri Noi, elucidating its symptoms and classifications as understood in Siddha medicine.
Alcoholism and Kudiveri Noi
Kudiveri Noi, or Mathathyam, is described in Siddha texts as a psychiatric disorder caused by the overindulgence in alcohol products like arrack and toddy. This state is characterized by significant transformations in an individual's consciousness, impairing their mental faculties. According to ancient Tamil texts, its symptoms encompass a range of distressing experiences, including consciousness impairment, involuntary body movements, bad dreams, and auditory disturbances. These accounts draw parallels with the modern understanding of alcohol dependency and its behavioral manifestations, indicating that Siddha literature pre-empted contemporary concepts of psychiatric disorders linked to substance abuse.
Symptoms and Classifications of Kudiveri Noi
The Siddha literature categorizes Kudiveri Noi into several types based on three humoral divisions: Vaatham, Pitham, and Kabham. Each division presents unique clinical features. For example, Vaatham manifests through sleeplessness and headaches while Pitham showcases fever and mental disturbances. Kabham is associated with bodily swelling and discomfort. Other classifications include Udarkedu and Vanmai Kedu, which relate to various physical symptoms due to excess intake of alcohol. These detailed classifications provide insight into how Siddha practitioners viewed the interplay between alcohol consumption and health, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of alcohol-related issues.
Cultural Context and Historical Usage of Alcohol
The use of alcohol in ancient Tamil Nadu, primarily through products like arrack and toddy, was embedded within cultural practices. Historical references indicate that alcohol consumption was prevalent among warriors before battle, likely for both social and stimulating effects. Siddha literature reflects on these practices, underscoring the shift in lifestyle and health perceptions over centuries. Comparatively, modern reports highlight an alarming increase in alcoholism in India, showing a striking correlation between ancient practices and current trends in substance abuse. The historical context provided by Siddha texts serves as a crucial lens to understand alcohol's evolving significance in Tamil society.
Conclusion
The examination of Kudiveri Noi through Siddha literature highlights the longstanding acknowledgment of alcoholism as a critical health concern, accompanied by a robust framework detailing its symptoms and classifications. The insights from Siddha texts underscore the importance of integrating traditional medical knowledge into contemporary approaches to tackle alcoholism. Recognizing the increased prevalence of this condition in modern times, there is a call for holistic treatment methods that encompass both ancient wisdom and modern medical practices, thereby enriching the overall understanding and management of alcohol-related disorders.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Kudiveri Noi in the Siddha system of medicine?
Kudiveri Noi, also known as Mathathyam, refers to chronic alcoholism characterized by symptoms like coarse tremors, nausea, anxiety, hallucinations, and withdrawal symptoms caused by excessive alcohol consumption.
What are the key symptoms of Kudiveri Noi?
Symptoms include tremors, nausea, vomiting, anxiety, sweating, hypertension, auditory hallucinations, and tachycardia, along with withdrawal symptoms such as sleep disturbances and mental confusion.
How is Kudiveri Noi classified in Siddha literature?
Kudiveri Noi is classified into various types based on three humoral divisions: Vaatham, Pitham, and Kabham, along with additional categorizations like Udarkedu and Vanmai Kedu.
What did the World Health Organization report about alcoholism?
According to the WHO, alcoholism affects over 208 million people globally, causing significant health issues, 3.3 million deaths annually, and various social problems.
How does Siddha literature describe the lifestyle related to alcohol consumption?
Siddha literature highlights the ancient Tamil lifestyle, where arrack and toddy were commonly consumed, emphasizing its impact on health and promoting a balanced lifestyle.
What is the conclusion about Kudiveri Noi in the article?
The article emphasizes that Kudiveri Noi, or chronic alcoholism, has significantly increased today compared to ancient Tamil Nadu, reflecting the need for awareness and treatment in contemporary society.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Literature review on kudiveri noi (chronic alcoholism) in Siddha medicine”. 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) Siddha:
Siddha is an ancient Indian system of medicine rooted in Tamil culture, emphasizing holistic health and wellness. It incorporates elements like herbal remedies, diet, yoga, and detoxification processes to treat various diseases and maintain balance in one's life by addressing both physical and mental health.
2) Disease:
Disease refers to a pathological condition affecting the body or mind, disrupting normal functioning. In Siddha medicine, diseases like Kudiveri Noi (chronic alcoholism) showcase how lifestyle choices can lead to physical ailments and mental disorders, underscoring the necessity of both preventive and corrective measures for health.
3) Alcoholism:
Alcoholism is a chronic disorder characterized by the inability to control or stop drinking despite negative consequences. In Siddha literature, it highlights the detrimental effects on physical and mental health, manifesting symptoms like anxiety, nausea, and hallucinations, emphasizing the need for supportive care and treatment options.
4) Tamilnadu (Tamil-nadu):
Tamilnadu is a southern state in India revered for its rich cultural heritage, ancient medicinal practices like Siddha, and literature. The state's traditional wisdom offers insights into health, showcasing the historical context of illnesses such as Kudiveri Noi, thereby linking cultural identity to health and treatment methodologies.
5) Vomiting:
Vomiting is a common symptom often associated with various ailments, including alcohol misuse, as seen in Kudiveri Noi. It results from the body's efforts to expel toxins or irritants and is a crucial indicator in both modern and ancient medical systems to assess underlying health issues.
6) Medicine:
Medicine encompasses the science and practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases and injuries. The Siddha system provides a comprehensive approach using internal and external therapies, herbs, and holistic measures to restore health, with a focus on treating both physical and mental conditions.
7) Sweating (Sweat):
Sweating is a physiological response that helps regulate body temperature and can also be a symptom of distress or illness, such as alcohol withdrawal in Kudiveri Noi. In Siddha practices, understanding this symptom aids in diagnosing imbalances within the body's humoral structure.
8) Chennai:
Chennai, the capital city of Tamilnadu, is a hub for Siddha medicine, hosting institutions like the National Institute of Siddha. It plays a pivotal role in preserving and propagating traditional medical knowledge, highlighting the integration of ancient practices within modern healthcare systems in India.
9) Matha:
Matha refers to a type of mental or psychiatric disorder within the Siddha framework. It encompasses conditions like alcoholism, emphasizing the need for understanding mental health as vital to overall well-being, and reflects the holistic approach of Siddha in addressing both mental and physical health problems.
10) Nausea:
Nausea is an unsettling sensation often preceding vomiting and is a common symptom in various medical conditions, including alcoholism. In Siddha, nausea is a crucial indicator of imbalance in bodily humors, guiding practitioners in assessing and determining appropriate treatment strategies.
11) India:
India is the origin of several traditional systems of medicine, including Siddha, which reflect the country’s rich diversity in health practices, cultural heritage, and philosophical approaches to well-being. Understanding India’s medical traditions is essential in addressing contemporary health challenges like alcohol dependence.
12) Anxiety:
Anxiety is a psychological state often linked to various disorders, including Kudiveri Noi in Siddha literature. It manifests through symptoms such as restlessness and heightened autonomic response, emphasizing the interaction between mental health and substance use in Ayurvedic and Siddha medicines.
13) Vali:
Vali refers to one of the three humors in Siddha medicine, representing the principle of movement and energy within the body. Imbalances in Vali can lead to various physical and mental health issues, highlighting the importance of maintaining equilibrium for overall health.
14) Mana:
Mana denotes mental or psychological conditions in Siddha medicine, emphasizing the interconnection between mind and body. Understanding Mana is critical for diagnosing and treating disorders like Kudiveri Noi, as it reflects the holistic approach to health within Siddha practices.
15) Marana:
Marana signifies the concept of death or mortality in Siddha literature. It underscores the importance of understanding life cycles and the impact of health practices on longevity, providing insight into how chronic conditions like alcoholism can significantly affect health outcomes.
16) Udal:
Udal represents the physical aspect of the body in the Siddha system, involving the interplay of internal elements and humors. It emphasizes the necessity of preserving physical health while recognizing the contributions of psychological states, such as those induced by alcohol consumption.
17) Ketu:
Kedu refers to afflictions or diseases in Siddha terminology. It encompasses a range of health issues, highlighting the need for comprehensive evaluation and treatment modalities that address underlying causes, particularly in relation to lifestyle factors contributing to conditions like Kudiveri Noi.
18) Purananuru:
Puranaanooru is an ancient Tamil poetic work that addresses various themes, including ethics and lifestyle choices. It encapsulates how overindulgence, especially in liquor and food, contributes to health issues, thus serving as a cultural reflection on health practices and beliefs in Tamil society.
19) Thirst:
Thirst signifies a physical need for fluid intake, often exacerbated by factors such as dehydration or substance misuse. In the context of alcoholism, excessive thirst can indicate bodily distress, emphasizing the need for balanced hydration as part of a healthy lifestyle.
20) Indian:
Indian refers to the people, culture, and systems originating from India, a land known for its diverse medical traditions, especially Siddha. Understanding Indian approaches to health provides valuable insights into ancient practices contributing to contemporary health management for issues like alcoholism.
21) Pillai:
Pillai denotes a title or honorific in South Indian cultures that may refer to scholars or knowledgeable figures. In the context of Siddha literature, Pillai may refer to authoritative sources documenting traditional medical practices and philosophies, playing a crucial role in preserving this knowledge.
22) Palai:
Paalai signifies excess or illegitimate use, particularly in the context of alcohol. It highlights the consequences of misuse as depicted in Siddha literature, linking excessive consumption with adverse health outcomes, especially in the context of chronic conditions like Kudiveri Noi.
23) Line:
Line relates to textual references or verses within Siddha literature that detail health practices, beliefs, or conditions. Each line serves as a guideline for understanding ancient wisdom while providing frameworks for contemporary health challenges, particularly concerning lifestyle-related diseases.
24) Life:
Life, in this context, refers to the holistic concept of existence encompassing physical, mental, and spiritual aspects. In Siddha medicine, preserving life through health and well-being is paramount, influenced by lifestyle choices, preventative measures, and appropriate treatments for existing ailments.
25) Tiruvalluvar (Tiru-valluvar, Thiruvalluvar):
Thiruvalluvar was a revered Tamil poet and philosopher whose work, the Thirukural, addresses ethics, morality, and the principles of living. His teachings emphasize the importance of health decisions, reflecting on the societal impacts of alcohol consumption and advocating for mindfulness in lifestyle choices.
26) Accumulation (Accumulating, Accumulate):
Accumulation describes the buildup of substances in the body, which can lead to health issues. In Siddha medicine, understanding accumulation is essential for diagnosing conditions like alcoholism, where toxic substances lead to illness, thereby guiding treatment through detoxification.
27) Discussion:
Discussion refers to the examination and exploration of topics, ideas, or research findings. In the context of Siddha literature, discussions on chronic alcoholism and related diseases encourage a deeper understanding of health systems, providing insights into treatment and preventative measures.
28) Psychosis:
Psychosis refers to severe mental disorders characterized by a disconnection from reality, often manifesting in hallucinations and delusions. In Siddha literature, psychosis as a consequence of alcoholism illustrates the critical interplay between substance use and mental health, necessitating targeted interventions.
29) Teraiyar:
Theraiyar refers to practitioners or traditional healers in the Siddha system. Their role is vital in applying ancient knowledge to diagnose and treat conditions like Kudiveri Noi and guiding patients toward healthier lifestyles through holistic approaches that integrate physical and mental health.
30) Swelling:
Swelling is an abnormal enlargement of body parts often indicative of inflammation or fluid accumulation. In Siddha, it can signify underlying conditions linked to dietary excess, like alcohol consumption, and represents clinical symptoms that require thorough evaluation and treatment.
31) Yavanar:
Yavanar refers to those involved in the production and sale of alcoholic beverages, particularly in historical contexts. This term highlights the historical practices surrounding alcohol consumption in ancient Tamil Nadu, providing insight into societal attitudes toward such substances.
32) Burning (Burn, Burned, Burnt):
Burning typically describes sensations that accompany various illnesses, including those related to alcohol misuse. In Siddha medicine, burning sensations can be indicative of 'Pitha' imbalances, which necessitate specific interventions to restore bodily equilibrium and health.
33) Carakku:
Sarakku denotes alcoholic beverages in Tamil, encompassing various traditional drinks. Understanding the cultural significance of Sarakku highlights the challenges associated with its consumption, particularly in relation to chronic illnesses like Kudiveri Noi, and serves as a foundation for public health discussions.
34) Mantha (Mamtha):
Mantha refers to a type of intoxication or mental alteration due to substances like alcohol. In Siddha practices, recognizing Mantha is crucial for understanding the broader implications of alcohol misuse and implementing appropriate treatment strategies for mental health.
35) Guindy:
Guindy is an area in Chennai, Tamilnadu, known for educational institutions, including the National Institute of Siddha. As a center for research and practice, Guindy plays a significant role in promoting traditional healing arts while addressing contemporary health issues, such as alcoholism.
36) Mulari:
Mulari refers to an aspect of body health in Siddha, often connected to vitality and well-being. Understanding the implications of Mulari is essential in diagnosing conditions like chronic alcoholism, as it helps explore the connection between physical health and lifestyle choices.
37) Kandam:
Kandam signifies regions or areas in the body within Siddha terminology. Recognizing the significance of Kandam is essential when assessing health conditions, as it relates to the distribution of symptoms and underlying causes of various health issues, particularly those related to substance use.
38) Misuse:
Misuse entails the improper use of substances, leading to health complications. In the context of alcohol, misuse can contribute to various physical and mental health disorders, calling for preventative measures and educational efforts to foster healthier lifestyle choices.
39) Liquor:
Liquor refers to distilled alcoholic beverages that can lead to intoxication and health issues when consumed excessively. Understanding the implications of liquor consumption is essential in Siddha medicine, particularly regarding its role in exacerbating chronic conditions such as Kudiveri Noi.
40) Phlegm:
Phlegm is a type of mucus that can accumulate in the respiratory system, often linked to illnesses. In Siddha practices, phlegm is seen as a symptom requiring treatment, especially when related to conditions exacerbated by lifestyle choices like alcohol consumption.
41) Pittam (Pittham):
Pitham is one of the three humors in Siddha medicine, associated with metabolic processes and heat in the body. Imbalances in Pitham can lead to various health issues, including symptoms of alcoholism like burning sensations and fever, emphasizing the need for balance.
42) Kapha:
Kapha is another of the three humors in Siddha medicine, characterized by stability and structure. Its imbalance can lead to lethargy and fluid accumulation, conditions that can arise from excessive alcohol consumption and necessitate holistic treatment approaches within Siddha.
43) Madhu:
Madhu refers to substances related to sweetness or intoxicating drinks. In Siddha, it encompasses both dietary choices and the implications of consuming sweet alcoholic beverages, linking culinary practices to health outcomes, particularly in the context of chronic disorders.
44) Pitha:
Pitha embodies the heat-producing element within the Siddha humoral system. Recognizing the role of Pitha is essential in diagnosing and treating conditions like Kudiveri Noi, where excess heat from substance misuse precipitates a range of physical and mental health challenges.
45) Water:
Water signifies a vital element for life, essential for physiological functions. In the context of health, proper hydration is crucial for detoxification, especially for individuals recovering from alcohol addiction, highlighting the need for balanced fluid intake in healing processes.
46) Honey:
Honey is a natural substance often used in various cultures for its nutritional and medicinal properties. In Siddha practices, it may be employed in remedies for its soothing and healing qualities, emphasizing the importance of natural ingredients in traditional healthcare.
47) Table:
Table refers to organized information that provides comparative data or highlights specific components. In medical literature, tables can summarize key insights or correlations between conditions and treatments, facilitating easier understanding of complex medical information.
48) Pulse:
Pulse refers to the rhythmic expansion and contraction of arteries indicative of heart function. In Siddha medicine, pulse assessment plays a critical role in diagnosing health status, understanding imbalances, and determining the overall wellbeing of individuals, especially in alcohol-related disorders.
49) Fever:
Fever is a common symptom of many diseases, indicating an immune response to infection or disease. In Siddha, understanding the causes and manifestations of fever is essential for appropriate treatment, particularly when it links to conditions resulting from substance use.
50) Death:
Death represents the cessation of biological functions and is a critical concern in health-related discussions. In Siddha literature, acknowledging mortality emphasizes the necessity of health practices to prolong life, especially in the context of diseases exacerbated by alcohol consumption.
51) Money:
Money represents the economic element influencing lifestyle choices, including those related to alcohol consumption. In discussions on health, understanding the role of financial resources in accessing treatment and maintaining health emphasizes socioeconomic factors impacting well-being.
52) Katti:
Katti refers to various ailments associated with the consumption of intoxicating substances. In the context of Siddha literature, it draws attention to the health complications arising from excessive alcohol intake, urging both education and intervention for prevention.
53) Ayam (Ayaṁ):
Aayam signifies dimensions or aspects related to health in Siddha concepts. This term underscores the multifaceted nature of health, emphasizing the need to assess various factors when addressing illnesses, particularly those linked to lifestyle diseases, such as alcoholism.
54) Aran:
Aaran denotes the concept of theft or moral violation related to unethical practices. In Siddha literature, it may symbolize the consequences of poor decision-making tied to substance use, serving as a cautionary reminder of the implications of lifestyle choices.
55) Stealing (Theft):
Theft signifies the act of stealing or unlawfully taking something. In health discourse, it metaphorically represents the idea of life or well-being being compromised due to poor lifestyle choices, particularly in the context of substance misuse and alcohol dependence.
56) Kali:
Kali refers to the principles of righteousness and morality in Tamil culture. Its mention in Siddha literature highlights the ethical and societal implications of drinking and lifestyle choices, emphasizing the moral dimension of health and well-being.
57) Food:
Food refers to the nutritional sources essential for health and energy. In Siddha practices, the quality and type of food consumed can significantly affect overall health, particularly concerning diets that may include alcohol, necessitating attention to dietary choices for optimal well-being.
58) Rice (Rce):
Rice is a staple food in Indian culture, particularly in Tamil Nadu. Its significance in nutrition underscores the importance of balanced diets in health, especially in juxtaposition with the consumption of alcohol and its health repercussions.
59) Fear:
Fear signifies an emotional response related to perceived threats, often emerging from health-related anxieties such as addiction. In Siddha practices, acknowledging fear is vital for addressing mental health challenges posed by conditions like alcoholism, fostering a holistic approach to treatment.
60) Pain:
Pain is a sensory experience often indicating the presence of a health issue or injury. In Siddha and traditional medicine, understanding the source and nature of pain is essential for diagnosis and treatment, particularly for conditions linked to substance misuse.
61) Ara:
Aara refers to the notion of sensation or perception within Siddha medicine. It emphasizes the importance of understanding sensory experiences as part of diagnosing and treating health conditions like those resulting from alcoholism, ensuring an informed approach to therapy.
62) Male:
Male generally refers to gender in medical discussions. In Siddha literature, understanding health conditions among males, particularly regarding alcohol use and associated disorders, is crucial for developing targeted health strategies and interventions that address gender-specific health issues.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Literature review on kudiveri noi (chronic alcoholism) in Siddha medicine’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Mental disease, World Health Organization, Auditory hallucination, Siddha system of medicine, Chronic Alcoholism, ICD-10, Psychiatric Problems.
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