SIDDHA MEDICINE -“Medicine as everyone knows merely a science but as an art as well”

 

According to St. Thirumoolar  what is ‘medicine’

The field of medicine encompasses physiotherapy and psychotherapy, serving both preventive and restorative functions. Ultimately, it aspires toward the highest goal—overcoming the limitations of mortality itself.

A comprehensive study of traditional medicine cannot be separated from the cultural, philosophical, and civilizational aspects that shaped its development. Ancient Tamil scholars, in their pursuit of longevity and mastery over nature, recognized two fundamental approaches—yoga and medicine.

Medicine, in this context, is not limited to the formulation of compounds, decoctions, pills, plasters, or drugs. It extends to a deeper understanding of life itself,

addressing not only the physical body but also the soul. As a discipline rooted in truth, medicine is considered a sacred science, one that should not be pursued solely for financial gain. The practice of medicine requires qualities such as strong will, benevolence, charity, and patience—fundamental principles guiding its application.

Healing is a profound mission, and its true essence cannot be comprehended by those lacking intellectual depth or understanding of life’s higher purpose. Nature holds countless remedies, each a manifestation of divine wisdom.

However, a medical system that disregards natural laws and lacks true comprehension risks causing more harm than benefit.

• Medical science can be learned through study, but true medical wisdom arises from understanding nature and the soul.
• The traditional medical systems in India, as practiced by ancient physicians, are fundamentally based on truth.
• A medical framework devoid of understanding and knowledge of natural principles will remain confined to speculation, superstition, and passive observation.
• The four primary medical systems currently practiced in India—Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy—are rooted in humoral pathology and based on the physiological doctrine that Panchabhootha (the five elements) serve as the foundation of the human body.