‘Siddha’s effectiveness is in individualised treatment’: Dr G. Senthilvel

Interview/ Dr G. Senthilvel, director, National Institute of Siddha, Chennai

Q/ How effective is siddha medicine?

Siddha medicine is considered effective particularly in the management of chronic diseases, lifestyle disorders, metabolic conditions, dermatological disorders, musculoskeletal ailments and respiratory diseases. Its effectiveness lies in its individualised treatment approach, emphasis on correcting humoral imbalance, detoxification procedures, dietary regulation and rejuvenation therapies. Clinical outcomes are supported by centuries of experiential evidence and an increasing number of scientific validation studies conducted by Ayush institutions and universities.

Q/ What is stopping siddha from becoming more acceptable in India and abroad?

Several challenges affect wider acceptance: limited large-scale clinical trials; lack of standardised documentation in international formats; inadequate global awareness; need for stronger regulatory harmonisation; and insufficient infrastructure for international outreach. However, government initiatives under the ministry of Ayush, digital documentation and research integration are improving acceptance.

Q/ Does siddha have treatment for viral diseases, Covid-19, cancer, prostate enlargement, asthma, heart and brain problems?

Yes, siddha has supportive and disease-specific protocols for viral diseases and Covid-19 (immunity enhancement, symptom management); cancer (adjuvant care, symptom relief, immune modulation); prostate enlargement; asthma and respiratory diseases; cardiac disorders and neurological disorders such as stroke, epilepsy and neuropathy. Siddha often works as primary care for chronic conditions and supportive care alongside modern medicine.

Q/ Does siddha have treatment for mental illnesses?

Yes. Siddha recognises mental health under ‘Mano Noi’ and treats conditions such as anxiety disorders, depression, insomnia, psychosomatic disorders and stress-related illnesses. Treatment includes herbal medicines, meditation, breathing practices, lifestyle regulation and spiritual therapy.

Q/ How did the siddha system of medicine originate?

Siddha originated in ancient Tamil civilisation and was developed by enlightened sages known as Siddhars. It evolved through spiritual practice, alchemy, yogic science and empirical observation. Classical texts such as writings by Agathiyar, Thirumoolar and Bogar laid the foundation. The system integrates medicine, philosophy, chemistry, yoga and cosmology.