Special Therapies in Siddha
Besides pharmacotherapy, there are several special therapies unique to Siddha. Some of them are listed below:
I. Varmam
'Varmam' is a special branch of the Siddha system of medicine, which initially evolved as an ancient Dravidian martial art. Later, Varmam practice had an interesting transformation into a healing science. Even though it stands as a branch of Siddha system of medicine, it has the potential to establish itself as a specialty healing therapy.
According to theory, there are several Varmam points in the body which serves as vital energy storing points. These are the points through which the vital energy is transmitted to various parts of the body, regulating the normal physiology of the human body. A total 108 Varmam points are defined in Siddha texts and these are used to stimulate energy, by stimulating the immune mechanism. However, the same points if wrongly activated may cause pathological changes or diseases which may even result in death. The practice and method of pressing the varmam points need a great expertise and even a slight deviation may cause adverse effects or danger. Among the 108 varmam points, 12 are major or vital points which control the function of the vital organs of the body.
It is understood that depletion or stagnation of the flow of vital energy (Praanan) at the varmam points results in disease.
II. Thokkanam
The term Thokkanam is a combination of two words - 'Thokku' which means skin and 'anam' which means support or tone or heat. Thokkanam also called Marthanam, is a structured massage technique which is mainly used in treatment of chronic Vali ailments. It can however, also be used in Azhal and Aiyam ailments. This therapy that can be done through nine techniques gives excellent results even without any internal drug administration.
Benefits of Thokkanam
1. Tones skin, muscles and nerves.
2. Disseminates vaayu and eliminates it, if it is in excess.
3. Improves nutrition of muscles.
4. Relaxes mind and increases sleep.
5. Rejuvenates and increases sexual ability.
6. Removes body pain.
III. Vaasi (Praanaayaamam)
Vaasi yogam is a branch of Siddha science dealing with the practice of correct breathing. There are different phases in the science of breathing- physical, mental and spiritual. Controlled breathing is the scientific method of charging oneself with vitality. Inhalation (Poorakam), Retention (Kumbagam) and exhalation (Resagam) are three vital steps in the practice of vaasi.
Siddha science believes that if a man breathes at the rate of 15/minute, he takes 21,600 breaths/day. At this rate, life span of man could exceed at least 120 years. Vaasi practice is highly recommended for those with sedentary lifestyle diseases arising due to improper breathing habits and several other stress-related diseases.
Other practices relating to the Siddha system
Vaasthu Saathiram
It is one of the branches of Siddha science dealing with planning and designing of a house or any living environment based on the positions of 'Vaasthu Purusan' –the deity believed to be residing in any site along with and the theory of 'Panchabhootham'. This science was developed with a purpose of building a house to ensure health, happiness and peace of mind. Accordingly, it details out certain guidelines to be followed right from the selection of site to final construction of house involving several calculations which results in perfect home with hygienic living conditions.
Astrology and Siddha
Astrology plays a significant role in Siddha science as it deals with the relationship between planets and human beings. There is considerable Siddha literature explaining the effect of planetary forces on every human, from the time of his/her birth to death. There are also references indicating that certain organs and their functions are controlled by the influence of planets. The Siddha texts provide instances dealing with the influence of planets on the health and illness of individuals living on earth. Siddha science also deals with the positive use of planetary influences for treating certain diseases.
Siddha and Veterinary Science
Siddha medicine also deals with veterinary science. There are several references in Siddha literature describing wide range of veterinary diseases and their corresponding medications.