Siddhavani - a monthly newsletter on health from Santhigiri Siddha Medical College

DECEMBER

2009-02-11T03:38:00.000-08:00

Salient Features of Siddha Medicine

One of the salient features of Siddha Medicine is that it has thousands of medicines for almost all ailments known to man. The system which was originated from the Eighteen Siddhars was propagated and further developed through hundreds of their disciples many centuries ago. Every Siddhars documented hundreds of formulations that include herbal, herbo-mineral, metal and animal products. The literature containing the knowledge of Siddha system was transmitted to the present generation through manuscripts written in palm leaves. These time-tested drugs are found to be highly efficacious in the treatment of specified disease. In Siddha, proper processing of the drugs enhances the efficacy and safeness of the drugs. Hundreds of formulas are available in Siddha to control even dreadful diseases.

Totally 64 varieties of medicines are available in Siddha which include 32 varieties of internal medicine and 32 varieties of external medicine. It is very clear that no other medical system in the world has this many varieties of drugs. Because of the long shelf life, these medicines could be preserved for several years. For example: Chenduram variety for 75 years, Parpam, Kattu, Kalangu, Urukku varieties for 100 years, Chunnam for 500 years and no expiry for Karpam, Sathu, Gurukuligai varieties. Dosage of Siddha medicines is also very minimal and less expensive.

Dr. K. Jagannathan, BSMS, MD(Siddha), Ph. D.

MEDICINAL USES OF MARINE PRODUCTS

Sea is one of the biggest sources of not only food materials but also various health care substances. Siddha practitioners are utilizing such materials in their practice in different forms for different ailments effectively. Siddhars, the founders of Siddha medical system, prepared a wide range of products from marine products and documented their preparation methods and utility. We have mentioned here a few of such effective preparations.

1. Calcined Sangu (Conch Shell) is considered an effective medicine for Peptic Ulcer. Favorable results are observed within 6-8 weeks of therapy.

2. Pavazham (Corals) is a definitive solution for bronchial asthma and bronchitis in children. For this reason, bhasmam of Pavazham is being given with honey for specific period.

3. Muthu Bhasmam (Pearl Powder) is a constructive drug for eye disorders especially in dull vision due to nutritional deficiency.

4. Nandukkal (Fossil stone of Crab), as per Siddha tradition, is an ideal drug for promoting urine excretion in case of edema and urinary stones to dissolve them.

5. Amaiodu (Turtle shell) preparations are highly advantageous in digestive disorders found in children.

6. Nathai (Snails) is being utilized to find solution for bleeding as well as first degree piles.

7. Respiratory ailments could be managed with Muthuchippi (Pearl Oyster shells) preparations.

8. Drug prepared with Kilinjil (Common Oyster Shells) is a wonderful remedy for fissure foot.

9. We are all aware that fish oil is the richest source of vitamin –A, and usually prescribed for eye and skin disorders.

Here, we are not specifying the name of medicines, vehicle (adjuvant), dose and duration of medication because patients should take these medicines only under the guidance of a Siddha doctor.

SOME SIMPLE REMEDIES

1. Paste of Thottalsinungi (Mimosa pudica) leaves, will be beneficial for mild diabetics when it is given internally.

2. Paste prepared from Vandukolli (Ring worm shrub) leaves and lemon juice is an excellent external application for fungal disorders.

3. Karkkam of Vilwam (Aegle marmelos) leaves is an effective remedy for IBS and should be taken with fresh buttermilk.

4. Venthayam (Fenugreek) soaked in water and taken with curds is a useful medicine for chronic diarrhea and mucous dysentery.

5. Amukkura (Withania somnifera) powder with sugar candy and milk twice a day will correct nervous debility.

6. A piece of Athimathuram (Indian liquorice) can be chewed for dryness of mouth, throat and dry cough.

7. Decoction obtained from 10 gram of Asoka bark powder twice a day will correct the problems of menstrual irregularities.

8. Gargling of coconut milk twice a day will be useful for mouth ulcers.

9. Thuthi (Abutilon indicum) leaves kalkkam is a wonderful remedy for bleeding as well as first degree piles.

10. Decoction of Khas- Khas seeds will solve insomnia problem.

NB: Quantity of raw materials to be taken for each preparation mentioned above is not mentioned. It has to be discussed with a Siddha physician.

BLOOD PURIFIERS IN SIDDHA

Blood purifiers in Siddha are frequently used in skin and allergic disorders. Blood purifiers are generally having anti-dote property which is essential to nullify /neutralize or remove toxins/ allergens from the body. Many simple preparations are often used by the Siddha practitioners. Names of few medicines are mentioned here for general information.

1. Nanari (Hemidesmus indicus) root decoction
2. Avuri elai karkkam (Indigofera tinctoria)
3. Arugan pul (Cyanodon dactylon) decoction
4. Milagu (Piper nigrum) Decoction
5. Nanjaruppan (Tilospora asthmatica)
6. Parangipattai (Smilax chinensis) choornam

MONTHLY ONE HERB- INTRODUCTION

SEENTHIL- Tinospora cordifolia

Vernacular names:
Tamil – Seenthil
Malayalam – Amirt
Hindi –Guduchi

It is a climber and tastes bitter. The leaves, stem and roots of this creeper are used in Siddha medicines. In Siddha, it is mainly used for fever and inflammation. In diabetics or polyneuritis cases, decoction is recommended to normalize blood sugar level and to promote microcirculation. Salt obtained from this entire plant will be beneficial for diabetes, skin and bone disorders. Even osteomyelitis could be controlled with this plant. Ghee preparation of this stem is a very popular drug for sinusitis. In addition to it, it is a kayakalpa drug having the capacity to improve immunity.

PATHYAM SERIES (Regimen)

Pathyam for Arthritis:

At present a large number of people are afflicted with rheumatism. It is most commonly seen in plus-forty age group. By following pathyam patient can control the intensity of the pain even without oral medications. Pathyam means regulation of diet and personal habits not mere diet restriction. Patient should avoid following things.

1. Intake of tuberous roots especially potato, pulses and non vegetarian food items.
2. Habits like Smoking, consumption of alcohol and tobacco chewing.
3. Lifting of heavy weights.
4. Aggressive exercises.
5. Exposure to cold/damp weather.
6. Taking bath in cold water.
7. Over-indulgence in sex.

Rheumatic patient should be careful to take only easily digestible food stuffs. Vegetarian diet is advised. Take bath in warm water.

ASK THE DOCTOR

Question : Doctor, I am twenty nine years old. I am suffering from sinus problem for the last four years. Sneezing, nasal block and head ache always troubles me. I cannot concentrate on my routines. Doctor told me that I have allergy. My sister also has the same problem but not much severe. Is there any remedy for this in Siddha?

Ramesh, Alwarpet, Chennai

Answer : Sinusitis generally results from allergy or infection. Plenty of medicines are available in Siddha to control the problem. Gowrichintamani chenduram, Sivanar amirtham, Thalisathy choornam, Thirikadugu choornam, Sangu parpam, Pavala parpam, Arumuga chenduram, Kasthuri karuppu, Muthuchippi parpam, Rasagandhi mezhugu, Seenthil nei, Vallathi nei, Thippili rasayanam, Thoothuvelai legyam are some of the medicines often used for such problems. Siro raksha thylam, Chukku thylam, Peenisa kesari thylam of Santhigiri are useful bath-oil for sinusitis. Hridaya Renjini (Santhigiri) steaming or nochi leaves steaming are also quite useful to get relief from nasal congestion. Exposure to cold, intake of cold food items, sweets, butter milk, curds, grapes, orange, lemon, pumpkin, egg, chicken are not advisable and therefore to be avoided. Perfumes, mosquito repellents, flower, fumes, smoke, dust is troublesome for the patients. It is better to do meditation and prayers daily. For a proper diagnosis and remedy consult a Siddha doctor.

(Answered by Dr. K.Jagannathan, BSMS, MD (Siddha), Ph. D, Santhigiri Siddha Medical College & Hospital)

You may address your questions to the doctor through email: research@santhigiriashram.org

OCTOBER ISSUE

2007-10-08T23:16:00.000-07:00

1. From Editor’s Desk

The 81st Janmadina Poojitha Samarpanam of Navajyothisree Karunakara Guru, the founder of Santhigiri Ashram was celebrated on 15 &16 September 2007. In connection with the two day programs a seminar on ‘Spirituality and Humanism beyond Religion -the Role of Media” was conducted in which well known journalists from 45 leading print and electronic media throughout India participated.

World Alzheimer’s Day will be observed this week. Changed life style, improper diet habit and stressful condition are considered to be the triggering factors of this disease. More scientific evaluations are being undertaken by the medical scientists to find a cure for this degenerative disorder, which affects the mind. So far no effective remedy had been identified to help the victims.

Siddha system of medicine offer considerable relief to the patients through medicines prepared from 108 rejuvenating plants prescribed in Siddha system. Withania somnifera, Mucuna puriens, Centella asiatica, etc. are some of the rejuvenating plants to find a solution for this disorder because these plants possesses natural Anti-oxidant, Nootrophic, Nervine and Brain tonic and Rejuvenating effects. In addition some of these plants have natural Neuro tropic vitamins and Neuro transmitters encouraging GABA level and offering super oxide dismutase as well as free oxygen radical scavenging activities to improve mental/physical activities, memory and check degenerative process. There are nearly 20 Siddha preparations like Aya Jambeeram Karpam, Aya bringaraja Karpam, Thanga Parpam, Thamira Parpam etc. helpful in the cure of this degenerative disorder.

Arogya Padmam – A Monthly Health & Family Magazine from Santhigiri

Santhigiri Ashram has started publication of a monthly health and family magazine ‘Arogya Padmam’ in Malayalam for the benefit of the public with valuable inputs from well-known experts from various disciplines in the field of Medicine. Special issues had been published so far focusing Diabetes and Hypertension. Next issue will be based on Kidney disorders. The public has welcomed the magazine because of its uniqueness when compared with similar health magazines. Perhaps Arogya Padmam will be the only health magazine, which could be read by all age groups. It contains extracts from various traditional systems beside modern medicine.

With prayers,

Yours truly,

Editor

2. Increasing incidence of Hepatitis B Virus infection

Of late we have several cases coming to our hospital with HbsAg positive reports. So far the reason for the increasing incidents of this disease is not clear. Proper treatment should be taken to avoid further complications. If the viral strength in our body exceeds our immunity status definitely it causes harm to the body. Since the target is Liver, some urgent steps should be taken to protect this vital organ from damage because of the risk of development of Cirrhosis and Liver failure in the final stage. In fact it is a life threatening infection as far as the medical field is concerned. In majority of cases, even though they are HbsAg positive, seems to be asymptomatic. We could not elicit even jaundice. But these people also need minimum treatment to overcome this problem.

In Siddha, there are so many medicines mentioned for Jaundice and are found to be quite effective in HBV also. Medicines prepared from Phyllanthus amarus, Ricinus communis, Eclipta alba / prostata, Tinospora cordifolia etc. will be beneficial for the patients to root out the problem. These drugs possess Liver tonic, Liver corrective and Liver protective properties. In certain conditions Santha chandrodaya mathirai, Annabedhi chenduram and Vediannabedhi chenduram can be prescribed to eliminate Bilirubin and correct Anaemia.

3. Drugs and Diet for Peenisam (Sinusitis)

Headache, Sneezing, Nasal block, Paraosmia, Nasal discharge are the features of Peenisam (Sinusitis). It generally results from either infection or allergy. Polluted atmosphere, perfumes, smoke, cold climate are some of the predisposing factors to provoke sinusitis.

Poorna chandrodayam, Pavala parpam, kasthuri mathirai, Gowri chindamani, Sivanar amirtham, Arumuga chenduram, Gorochanai pills, Thirikadugu choornam, Karpoorathi choornam, Elathi choornam, Seenthil choornam, Seenthi nei are the effective drus mentioned in Siddha to be handled for combating this problem under the supervision and guidance of Siddha doctor. Neerkkovai tablets and Hridaya renjini are effective external applications.

Medicated oil application will yield fruitful result in addition to internal medicines. Such medicated oils are 1. Peenisa thylam 2. Chukku thylam 3. Nasiroga nasa thylam 4. Sirobara nivarana thylam 5. Chithiramoola thylam 6. Nochi thylam 7. Aswagantha balalaksha thylam 8. Milaku thylam.Steam inhalation of Thalaivali pasai will offer instant relief from the nasal congestion and pain. To mount immunity against infection and allergy, medicines like Nellikkai legyam and Thetrankottai legyam can be takan.

As regard to diet restriction, chilled items, sweets, fruits, buttermilk, curds, brinjal, bitter guard, chicken, egg, fish and dry fish could be avoided. Pollution free atmosphere is very important in treatment aspect. Hot food items will be preferable. Doing Yoga and pranayam can also help to get rid of the problem.

4. Insomnia

Insomnia is defined as impairment in duration, depth or restorative properties of sleep. Apart from organic disease, Insomnia commonly results from stressful life pattern. At present considerable number of people are afflicted with this problem due to the impairment of bioclock mechanism followed by psychological disturbances. It needs proper medication, otherwise, normal physiological functions of the body may be disturbed ultimately results in disease.

Having 5 gms of powder of dried Amukkara (Withania somnifera) root during bed time with milk daily will be a wonder remedy to achieve sound sleep. In addition to, having KasaKasa kudineer obtained from 1 teaspoon full crushed Kasakasa in the evening will be useful.

Regular exercise/Yoga and medicated oil bath two times a day, found to be very useful for this abnormal condition. Advisable medicated oils are: - 1.Aswagantha bala laksha thylam 2.Brahmi thyalm 3.Thiribala thylam 4.Ponnanganni thyalm 5.Asai thyalm.

Jadamanjil choornam, KasaKasa kudineer, Amukkara legyam, Nellikkai legyam, Muthu parpam, Nannari manappagu are some of the important preparation told in Siddha for this condition. Consultation with doctor is must to rule out organic disease so that priority to be given for treating the underlying cause.

5. Medicinal properties of “Aloe vera”

1. Fresh pulp separated from Aloe leaf can be taken internally after proper washing with fresh water is a good remedy for Reflexive esophagitis, Peptic ulcer, Menstrual disorders, Urinary tract infection and Body heat.

2. Fresh pulp can be applied on the face to cure dark ring around eyes, pimples and all skin blemishes of the face.

3. Aloe juice taken by using astringents could be used for preparing medicated oil that is very useful oil bath for controlling burning sensation of the eyes, body and body heat.

4. The traditional practitioners often use aloe root powder decoction and powder of dried pulp for jaundice.

6. Simple remedies for “Ulcerative colitis”

The major symptoms of Ulcerative colitis are bloody diarrhoea and abdominal pain often with low-grade fever, anorexia and loss of weight in more severe cases. Disease shows relapses and remissions. Tenderness along the course of colon will be present. Laboratory findings will be:

a) Decreased haemoglobin

b) Raised ESR and White cells

c) Visible or occult blood, RBC and Pus cells in stools

d) Barium enema, Colonoscopy and Sigmoidoscopy are the modern parameters to identify UC easily.

This virulent condition may be controlled with simple Siddha medicines as given below.

a) Intake of Vilwa Ilai Karkkam (Aegle marmelos) two times a day with buttermilk or curd

b) Paste prepared from Venthayam (Fenugreek) with curd or buttermilk, two times a day

c) Powder of tender fruit of Pomegranate (Punica granatum) with curd or buttermilk, two times a day

d) Decoction obtained from Pancha thuvarpi three times a day

Other prepared medicines in Siddha will be taken with doctor’s prescription definitely.

7. Chutneys in day-to-day life

In morning breakfast just choose the following chutneys to provide medicinal values as well as good taste for family members. Seven days-Seven chutneys:

a) Pudina (Mentha viridis) chutney – to promote digestion

b) Kariveppila (Murraya koengi) chutney – source for iron

c) Nellikka (Emblica officinalis) – source for vitaminC and to improve immunity

d) Malli (Coriander leaves) chutney – to promote digestion

e) Pirandai (Cissus quadrangularis) chutney – useful for ulcer, constipation, piles

f) Vengaya-poondu (Allium cepa and sativum) chutney – for digestion and piles

g) Thakkali (Physalis minima) chutney – provide vitamins and glutothione

JUNE ISSUE

2007-06-15T04:29:00.000-07:00

1. From editor’s desk

Present outbreak of Chikungunya, again people in Kerala are suffering from this virulent viral infection. When compared with Dengue, it has been learnt that Chikungunya is not so vulnerable but the inflammatory process produced at joint level is somewhat severe one and makes the people to take adequate rest in order to prevent further damages. Mosquito is the vector responsible for the transmission of the disease. Kerala, a state having high percentage of literacy rate, is unable to protect themselves from such outbreak is really surprising.

Treating the affected persons is of urgent importance, of course, but how to prevent further episode is an important area to be focused. Necessary steps should be taken immediately to create awareness among the public regarding nature of infection, mode of transmission, complication and preventive measures. Stagnated water in a small pot itself is enough to breed thousands of mosquitoes. Avoidance of such type of breeding should be the prime step to be taken. We have to educate the public to keep their house premises devoid of waste accumulation and water stagnation. Awareness on proper sanitation and the importance of personal hygiene should be promoted.

Exposing rooms and house premises to the smoke of dried Neem leaves (Azadirachta indica), Turmeric (Curcuma longa), Tulasi (Ocimum sanctum) and little Castor oil are an ideal way to check mosquito breeding and viral replication. Support from indigenous medicine field also would be useful to eradicate this infection. There are plenty of medicines available in Siddha medicine field (also in Ayurveda) to save the sufferers from fever, arthritis and other complications. For example: 1. Nilavembu Kudineer 2. Pitha Jwara Kudineer 3. Kaba Jwra Kudineer 4. Santhigiri’s special kashayam 5. Brahmananda mathirai 6. Keezhanelli choornam mathirai 7. Nellikkai-manjal mathirai 8. Mudakkaruthan choornam mathirai. These drugs are not only having analgesic, anti-inflammatory but also anti-viral properties. Sivappu kukkil thylam, Vishamushti thylam, Vatha kesari thylam, Karpoorathi thylam, Siddha kayathirumeni thylam, Vathanarayana thylam are effective external application for joint problems. These medicines are manufactured by Santhigiri Ayurveda & Siddha Vaidyasala already.

Prevention is better than cure. Government and other NGOs should work together to promote awareness among people to check spreading of this epidemic.

Yours truly,

Editor

2. Kayakalpam in Siddha (Rejuvenators)

Kayakarpam is special kind of medicines made up of natural sources, given to maintain youthfulness and to prevent the onset of the disease and ageing problems. Moreover it would be helpful to mount immune status in a greater level. So these drugs are supposed to have rejuvenation, anti-oxidant and immuno modulating effects. According to literary evidences, it is found that some Siddhars were able to live for many hundred of years with the help of these medicinal practices.

“Karpathai undal kayam azhiyathu…” is a Tamil verse written by ancient Siddha Thirumoolar explaining, when a person is given Kayakalpa treatment properly, no possibility of decay of cells in the body would happen. They could live for longer period without having any illness and maintain the physique in a very normal condition always.

According to Siddhar, Thirumoolar, there are 108 Kayakalpa medicines available in Siddha and classified into 2 catagories. They are 1. Pothu karpam (for rejuvenation in general) 2. Sirappu karpam (manages affected disease and rejuvenates the body simultaneously).

Nellikkai (Phullanthus emblica), Chukku (Zingiber officinale), Vallarai/Kudangal (Centella asiatica), Elumichai/Cherunaranga (Citrus acida) are few examples for Pothukarpam. Here we wish to mention some Sirappu karpam medicines.

a) Kadukkai (Terminalia chebula) powder can be taken with Water for 40 days in Piles, Constipation, Jaundice and Constipation.

b) Keezhanelli (Phyllanthus amarus) karkkam to be taken with curd in Mega diseases especially in Leucorrhoea.

c) Infusion of Vilam/Koovalam leaves (Agele marmelos) to be advised internally early in the morning for 40 days is quite useful for Peptic ulcer (Gunmam).

d) Decoction of Nannari ver (Hemidesmus indicus), 30ml, twice daily for 40 days is beneficial for Pitha complaints and chronic Urinary tract infection.

e) Ponnamkanni (Alternanthera sesselis) leaves should be heated with little ghee and to be taken with little salt and pepper powder for 40 days is highly useful for eye disorders especially in burning sensation of the eyes and to improve complexion.

We will discuss about other Sirappu karpam in next newsletters.

3. Plant - Aavaarai’s role in the field of Indian medicine
(Cassia auriculata) - The Tanner’s cassia

Medicinal uses

Decoction, made up of Aavaarai panchangam (leaf, flower, fruit, stem bark and root bark) is highly useful for Diabetes mellitus and Leucorrhoea.

Powder prepared from Aavaarai flower and Green gram is a good bath powder for skin ailments and it will improve complexion.

Fine powder of seeds to be mixed with coconut oil or gingili oil and its extract could be applied for eye disorders.

Decoction of the stem bark is a useful gargle for oral ulcers (Aphthous ulcer)
Bath oil prepared from this root is a useful remedy for all the pitha complaints and body heat because of its cooling effect.

4. How to control menstrual problems by regulating food and other habits?

Most common problems of menstruation affecting ladies are classified into three.1.Soothaga thadai (Amenorrhoea/ Oligomenorrhoea) 2.Soothaga vali (Dysmenorrhoea) 3.Perumbadu (Menorrhagia). In addition to internal medicines what are the regulations to be employed in diet habit being given here.

Amenorrhoea

(Absence of menstruation for months together in a woman with periodic menses)

Domestic remedy

1. Powder of Ell (Krishna til) 5-10gm with jaggery, to be taken daily.

2. Frequent intake of Papaya fruit and Pineapple is advisable.

3. Purified aloe pulp is a good remedy.

4. Using Asafoetida in curries also beneficial.

Note: The abovementioned items are not advisable during pregnancy.

Dysmenorrhoea
(Dysmenorrhoea means painful menstruation)

1. Food regulation given under Amenorrhoea also applicable in this condition.

2. Hot water bag is applied on the lower abdomen.

3. Remove constipation by having plenty of fruits, fibre rich vegetables and water.

4. Salt and excess of water intake are to be restricted during prior to the period.

5. Decoction of Coriander seeds/ Powder of Sombu (Pimpinella anisum) to be taken frequently during painful menstruation.

Menorrhagia
(Excessive bleeding during menstruation)

1. Patient should be advised to take adequate rest.

2. Raise the foot end of bed.

3. Intake of Gooseberry (Nellikka) and Citrus fruits is beneficial.

4. To correct Anaemia, Kayyonni (Eclipta alba), Dates, Figs, Gnaval (Eugenia jumbolina), Dry grapes, Pomegranate, Carrot could be used.

5. Ragi flour Ganji is a better diet to supplement iron and calcium.

6. Avoid masala rich food items and the items mentioned under amenorrhoea.

5. Simple remedies for Diarrhoea and Dysentery
(Consulting a doctor is more essential)

1. Black tea with Lemon juice can be taken internally because of the presence of Tannins.

2. Paste of KasKas (Poppy seeds) is given with Curd, useful remedy.

3. Venthayam (Uluva/Fenugreek) is grounded with water and given with Buttermilk or Curd.

4. Powder of Pomegranate skin or unripe Pomegranate or unripe Guava is a better remedy and it is always given with Buttermilk or Curd.

During Diarrhoea and Dysentery, intake of masala rich food and hot dishes to be restricted.

APRIL ISSUE

2007-04-19T04:38:00.001-07:00

1. From Editor’s Desk

Good morning

The incidence of Heart problems and Stroke are increasing day by day. Diabetes Mellitus, Hypertension and Hyperlipidaemia are the common causes for such complications when these diseases are not controlled properly. Apart from hereditary causes, irregular diet habits and lifestyle changes are the reasons for the development of such diseases.

Ancient Siddhars (Saints and Sages of Tamil Nadu in the fields of Medicine and Philosophy) mentioned in their literatures that “Unavathi seyal marupadu” i.e. improper diet and personal habits are the reasons for the onset of diseases. So prime importance should be given to these factors to avoid life-threatening complications. Earning money and achieving competitiveness in the society is the ultimate aim of majority of people today and in the process they are sacrificing much. They do not get time to spare enough time for the family members and have to lead a stressful and mechanical life. Stressful conditions invariably develop Hormonal imbalance that leads to further complications. Chanting of Mantra, Yoga - Pranayama - Dhyana (meditation) is the special treatment available in Siddha to handle tension and anxiety and other mental disturbances.

Irregular diet habit is the next major problem. Now-a-days, people are used to eating fast food. Actually they are inviting diseases like Diabetes Mellitus, Hypertension, Heart attack, Hyperlipidaemia, Fatty infiltration/ degeneration of the liver, obesity etc. In Siddha, prime priority should be given for ‘Pathyam’. Pathyam is regulation of diet and personal habits. We should give much importance for vegetables, green leaves and fruits, which contain required vitamins, minerals, anti-oxidants and fibres. Fibres are important for healthy gastro-intestinal tract and to prevent constipation, ano-rectal diseases and carcinoma. It will prevent further absorption of the fat also. We have to avoid foods with high calorific values, fatty and oily items, fast foods, soft drinks, tin foods, fried items, preservatives, high intake of non-vegetarian food and pickles. “Unave marunthu and Marunthe unavu” is the Siddhar’s concept, i.e. food itself is medicine and in turn medicine is food itself.

Lack of exercise is the third major problem. Very few are taking proper care about their health. Most of the people don’t do exercises and as a result gain weight. Walking in the morning hours is helpful in this regard. We have to find time for performing regular exercises in order to maintain health. We have to realize the reasons for such diseases and take necessary precautions to protect us from these silent killers.

Yours truly,

Editor

2. Monthly one Herb - Kurumulaku (Black pepper/Piper nigrum)

Medicinal uses

1. It is one of the main items in Indian curries. As per Siddha concept, it is a powerful anti-dote, which neutralizes all the toxic effects followed by improper food and all poisonous conditions. For this purpose, kashayam of kurumulaku is commonly used.

2. Giving thirikadugu choornam three times a day in the doses of 1gm-2gm with honey is an ideal remedy for cold, cough and even in fever because of its Expectorant and Anti-pyretic properties.

3. It contains iron and takes part in Haemetinics. Hence it is having mild irritant effect, normally used as an external application for Arthritis and Head ache just by grinding with water into paste form.

5. It becomes one of the major ingredients of so many Siddha preparations.

3. Diet and habit regulation

Disease : Bronchitis (Kasam)

1. Avoid smoke and dust.

2. Avoid cool drinks, buttermilk, curds, sweet and sour eatables.

3. Stop smoking completely and permanently.

4. Hot drinks such as tea/ coffee are advisable.

5. Light diet and small frequent feeds.

6. Steam inhalation is advisable.

7. Rub chest with available balm.

8. Take bath in hot water is always recommendable.

9. Perfumes should be avoided.

5. Obesity and its Management

Weight gain is the main problem now a day in many persons because of various reasons. It is a condition in which there is an excessive amount of body fat. It can easily assessed in term of height and weight mentioned in tables’ standard of ideal and desirable weight.

Obesity should be distinguished from Oedema associated with cardiac, renal or hepatic problems, Anaemia with hypoproteinaemia and Hormonal problems with the help of family doctor. Over eating, lack of exercise and hereditary factors also plays a major role in the onset of obesity.

Obesity lead to Diabetes mellitus, Hypertension, Arthritis, Low back pain, Breathlessness during exertion, Infertility, Hyperlipidaemia at many occasions. So Obesity shoud be treated perfectly by considering all sorts of side effects and complications.

Simple remedies : (Medicines to be taken under doctor’s supervision.

1. Drink prepared from juice of 1 lemon, 3-teaspoonful honey and 1 glass of hot water. This should be taken in the morning as very first thing for forty days (OR)

2. Thiripala choornam 5gm daily two times with honey for 40 days (OR)

3. Karuka pul (Cyanodon dactylon) juice 50-60ml daily in the empty stomach for 40 days.

If the above said remedies do not yield good response, kindly approach the doctor.

Diet regimen:

1. Energy out put must be increased through exercises.

2. Fats, Non-vegetarian food, Sweets, Nuts, Tin food, Fried items, Oily items to be avoided.

3. Reduce the amount of food intake gradually.

4. Give up the last meal of the day and it should be compensated with raw vegetables or boiled vegetables and fruits.

5. Having tomato juice or grape juice or cucumber juice or orange juice or cabbage is ideal one at 11 am.

FEBRUARY ISSUE

2007-02-08T02:09:00.000-08:00

1. From Editor's Desk

Santhigiri Ashram, through its health care division, has been promoting Indian systems of Medicines - Ayurveda and Siddha through various programs. One such program is Karunyam National Health Care Program, the first phase of which was launched last year in Kerala benefitting nearly 3 lakhs people.

Santhigiri Ashram through one more unique health care program, ‘Siddha Village’, adopted Chandiroor village, the birth place of Guru and rendered free medical assistance to 2400 patients involving Santhigiri Siddha Medical college students and Doctors.

The activities of the Ashram have drawn national and international attention. The Union of German Malayali Association (UGMA) has honored Swami Gururetnam Jnana Tapaswi, Director, Santhigiri Ashram, with its Karunya Varsha Award, which will be presented to him at Bonham, Germany on 9, 10 June, 2007.

OTHER IMPORTANT EVENTS

Dr. V. Arunachalam, MD (Siddha), Principal, Santhigiri Siddha Medical College has been selected for the prestigious post of Director, National Institute of Siddha, a highly reputed institution run by the Government of India, for academic and research activities. Santhigiri is really very proud of this. In his place, Prof.Dr.Palavesam, MD (Siddha) has been given the charge of the Principal. Dr. Palavesam was Vice-principal of Government Siddha Medical College, Thirunelvely, Tamil Nadu and has rich experience in the field of Siddha medicines.

SANTHIGIRI SCIENTIFIC & INDUSTRIAL RESEARCH ORGANIZATION (SSIRO)

The Department of Science & Technology, Govt. of India, has recognized Santhigiri Ashram as a Research Institution for conducting research in the field of Social and Medical Sciences – Ayurveda and Siddha. The Social Science research will be based on the teachings of Navajyothi Sree Karunakara Guru.

Yours truly,

Editor

2. MONTHLY ONE HERB - INJI (ZINGIBER OFFICINALE) - ZINGER

Medicinal uses:

1. It is a Kayakalpa drug. Thin slices of inji are soaked in honey and two slices of inji to be taken daily for one mandalam (48 days) to rejuvenate our body.

2. Juice of fresh ginger can be taken with honey in indigestion and gas troubles.

3. In dryness of mouth and vomiting, we have to chew a thin slice of inji, a good remedy.

4. Mixture of ginger juice, onion juice and lemon juice in equal quantities internally, dose about 20-30 ml two times a day for 3 consecutive days is an effective treatment for cough with expectoration.

3. DIET AND HABIT REGULATION - PILES/HAEMORROIDS

1. All kind of irritant food like chillies, masalas, alcohol, tea, and coffee should be avoided.

2. High intake of fibre containing foodstuff is quite useful.

3. Plenty of vegetables and fruits are advisable.

4. Sitting in one position for longer period is not good for piles.

5. Sit bath or other forms of moist heat, stool softeners and adequate rest is advised.

6. Permanently prolapsed piles are best treated surgically.

4. SIMPLE REMEDIES

1. Paste of Mayilanji (Lawsonia alba) is applied at the bottom of the foot is an ideal remedy for burning sensation of the foot (Neuritis).

2. One- teaspoon full Kadukkai (Terminalia chebula) powder with hot water during bedtime will give relief from constipation.

3. Decoction of Kothampalari (Coriandrum sativam) will control the lower abdomen pain occurring during menstruation.

4. Decoction of Nerunjil (Tribullus terrestris) is a useful drug for urinary calculi.

5. Thuthi leaves (Abutilon indicum) are ground nicely and given internally for bleeding piles.

5. RESEARCH REPORTS

1. Thippali (Piper longum) and Adhathodai (Adathoda vasica) are commonly used in the drugs prepared for bronchial asthma. Now it has been proved that both drugs are having broncho dilating effect.

2. Iron, Zinc, Vitamin-B12, C and folic acid are essential factors for blood formation. Sathavari (Asparagus racemosus) is oftenly used in hemetinic preparations because it is a natural source of folic acid.

3. Keezhanelli (Phyllanthus niruri), a lipotropic agent, which reduces levels of triglycerides and cholesterol and prevents further damage in alcoholic fatty liver.