தமிழ் மரபு மருத்துவத்தில் (சித்த மருத்துவம்) இந்திய அறிவு அமைப்பின் தத்துவ அடித்தளம்
The Philosophical Foundation of the Indian Knowledge System in Tamil Traditional Medicine (Siddha Medicine)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63300/tm08sp0126.03Abstract
Siddha medicine is an ancient traditional medical system hailing from Tamil Nadu. Formulated by sages known as Siddhars, this system is a holistic way of life that establishes a disease-free existence through the harmonious integration of body, mind, and soul. Its philosophical foundations are deeply rooted in the vast knowledge base of the ancient Tamils.
The fundamental theory of Siddha medicine is based on the Panchabootha (Five Elements) philosophy. It explains that the structure of all living and non-living things in the world is a chain link of these five elements: Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Ether. The equilibrium of these five elements is considered the key to health. When this balance is disturbed, disease manifests. Therefore, Siddha treatment aims to restore this basic elemental balance rather than merely alleviating the symptoms of a disease.
These philosophical concepts function not just as theories but as practical life guidelines. This includes regulating life through daily and seasonal codes of conduct (Dinacharya and Ritucharya), diet based on seasons, and living in harmony with nature. This wealth of knowledge is preserved in Siddha poems such as Thirumoolar’s "Thirumandiram" and classical texts like "Agathiyar Gunavagadam" and "Vaithiya Chintamani". Literary evidence details medical arts involving herbs, minerals, and metals, as well as subtle diagnostic methods like pulse diagnosis (Naadi). All these elements create a holistic approach that provides personalized treatment based on an individual’s constitution, lifestyle, and environment.
Thus, Siddha medicine is not merely a technology for curing illness; it is a philosophy-based life science aimed at maintaining balance and health across the physiological, psychological, and spiritual levels in harmony with the laws of nature. It represents a foundational pillar of India's holistic knowledge system originating from South India.
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