important. The universe and anything in the universe is believed
to be made of these 5 elements- air, water, earth, fire and space.
Quality and nature of everything varies according to difference
in the proportion of these elements. According to the dominance
of these elements each plant or each mineral exhibits its own
physical and chemical characters. This basic principle is made use
of in the formulation of medicines in Ayurveda.
Panchakarma: Panchakarma is a term most mistaken among
people. It is really 5 main treatments, by which vitiated doshas
are expelled from the body. They include Vamana (induced
vomiting), Virechanam (Purgation), Asthapanam (enema with
decoction), Anuvasanam (enema with oil) and Nasyam (Nasal
application of oil). According to another school, both the enemas
are included under common title Vasti and fifth one is
Raktamoksham (Blood letting). The vitiated doshas, waste
materials and toxins are expelled by panchakarma. But for the
convenience of the complete expulsion they are collected at
particular sites by these pre-panchakarma process called
Snehapanam (oleation) and Swedanam (Steam bath). There are
particular, prescribed procedures and steps by which these are
carried out. Though the lessons and texts studied are same, the
system of treatment is entirely different and far more effective
as well. These special methods of treatments which can be
included in the pre and post panchakarma procedures are
Sarvanga snehadhara/Pizhichil (oil bath), Shashtikapindaswedam
(rice bundle massage), Patrapodala-swedam (leaf bundle
massage) Sirodhara (head bath) etc.
Siddha: Originated from the Dravidian culture Siddha system of
medicine is the oldest traditional treatment system in the world.
The Siddha which flourished in the period of Indus Valley
Civilization is older than the treatment systems like acupuncture.
The word Siddha comes from the word Siddhi which means an
attainment of a rare feat. According to the preachers of Siddha
medicine, it focuses on the techniques to attain Ashtamahasiddhi,
the power to tame the eight supernatural powers. Those who
achieved such powers are known as Siddhars. There were 18
important Siddhars in olden days and they developed this system