The Siddha System of medicine
is the oldest traditional treatment system generated from
Dravidian culture. Siddha system of medicine is believed
to be the oldest medical system in the known universe. The
system is believed to be developed by 18 Siddhas in the
south called siddhar. They are the ancient supernatural
spiritual saints of India and the Siddha system is believed
to be handed over to the Siddhar by the Hindu God - Lord
Shiva and Goddess Parvathi.
Siddhars were of the concept
that a healthy soul can only be developed through a healthy
body. So they developed methods and medication that are
believed to strengthen their physical body and thereby their
souls. Men and women who dedicated their lives into developing
the system were called ‘Siddhars’. They practiced
intense yogic practices, including years of fasting and
meditation. And believed to have achieved super natural
powers and gained the supreme wisdom and overall immortality.
Through this spiritually attained supreme knowledge, they
wrote scriptures on all aspects of life, from arts to science
and truth of life to miracle cure for diseases. The word
Siddha comes from the word Siddhi which means an object
to be attained perfection or heavenly bliss. Siddha focused
to "Ashtamahasiddhi" that is the eight supernatural
power. Those who attained or achieved the above said powers
are known as Siddhars. There were 18 important siddhars
in olden days and they developed this system of medicine.
Hence, it is called Siddha Medicine.
