A continuation of the Pre-Aryan Medical System, Siddha is one of the Ancient System of Indian Medicine, equal to the Ayurvedha in its history, was developed by the “Siddhars” based on their treatises after careful observation and study.

Medicines of Siddha, consists of herbs, mineral and animal products. Siddha yoga explains the various preparations of Mercury and other metals, salts and sulphur.

As no kind of hazardous chemicals are used in the preparations, nil adverse effects are expeceted. It stresses on prevention of disease rather than cure, with a sound mind and healthy body.

Siddha medicine is a boon to the human race. A person who intends to consume Siddha medicine should have a good behaviour and follow a strict code of conduct. It emphasises not only in food habits but also in ones conduct. By this, the system tries to inculcate good culture and conduct in an individual.

Resuming to follow the strict regimen during treatment, one finds it to be rewarding and a change in their outlook itself. Smoking, consumption of alcohol and practising immoral sex are strictly prohibited and once an individual is denied such facilities, it enables to prevent diseases such as Cancer and AIDS also. Culture of our land, its heritage and tradition are reflected in this system.

It is indeed a great privilege to follow the foot steps of our ancient illustrious siddhars, who have left behind works, which are the base of this system. Anyone will be amazwed by the knowledge experience, spirit of enquiry and intuitive intelligence of our Siddhars.

This system is based on the “Thiridosha” humoral theory, akin
to modern endocrinology. Based on the culture, it can be affirmed that the Siddha system has existed and thrived during the pre-vedic period. This system was traditionally believed to have originated from the Creator, the fountain head of mercy, with his three foldfunctions of Creation, Preservation of good and Destruction of evil. This system was spread to the world through sages, saints and haloed men.

Siddhars knowledge of chemistry, minerals, metals and plants were stupendous. This was successfully used by them from time immemorial. The processes life calcination of mercury, minerals and metals and the preparation of a super salt known as “Muppu”, animated mercury pills with high potency possessing marvellous properties of transmuting metals and capable of rejuvenating the entire human system bear ample testimony to the fact that, even in the remote past when knowledge in Chemical technology was not fully developed, siddhars had unparalleled knowledge in Medicine.

Having such great qualities, why the Siddha system did not flourish is a poser. Reticence, Secrecy and selfishness were the trible defects which stood in the way. This glorious system was not allowed to flourish though it did not die out because of its innate system based on facts.

Finally to make this system universally acceptable and useful particularly in developing countries, the following worthy suggestions were considered. 1)Recognition (Pharmacognosy) and collection of rawmaterials 2)Preparation of medicines 3)Methods of standardization including dosage studies Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, Toxicology, Teratogenicity, carcinogenicity,
4)Clinical trials, preparation on a large scale and recognition of the practitioners in this system wre considered. Much more is neeeded towards the development of this system which includes time, honest study, co-operation from various specialists, demands on the exchequer etc. Scientific development is needed, which cannot be neglected but to be considered.

This would be a proper challenge to assess the patriotism of those who are entrusted with and interested in the batterment of human cure through this system.

Let us hope for the best in the days to come.