Ayurveda

Siddha

Origin

Developed during the Vedic period in India during mid-second millennium BCE.

Developed in South India. Believed to be more than 2500 years old.

Etymology

Ayur meaning “life” and Veda meaning “knowledge” – Ayurveda means “knowledge of life.”

From the word Siddhi which means an object to be attained perfection or heavenly bliss.

Belief

Prevention of disease

Only a healthy body can help develop a healthy soul

Concept of disease

Disease is created by an imbalance of three elemental energies or humors: Vāyu / vāta (air & space – "wind"), pitta (fire & water – "bile") and kapha (water & earth – "phlegm").

When the normal equilibrium of the three humors (vata, pitha and kapha) is disturbed, disease is caused.

Philosophy

The body is healthy as long as it in balance, when imbalanced it will be unhealthy in various ways. Uses herbs and minerals to bring and keep body in balance. Also, stresses need for healthy metabolic system, good digestion, proper excretion, exercise, yoga, and meditation.

Use methods and medication, such as intense yogic practices, including years of periodic fasting and meditation, that are believed to strengthen the physical body and thereby the souls, in order to achieve supernatural powers and even immortality.

Preparation of Medicine

Uses vegetable drugs, herbs, minerals like sulphur, arsenic, copper, lead, gold and animal products like milk, bones, and gallstones to produce medication.

Uses thavara (herbal product, such as leaves, flowers, fruit and various roots), Dhathu (inorganic substances) and jangamam (animal products).

Issues of Safety

May incorporate toxic minerals such as lead, mercury and arsenic in small doses.

May include gold for consumption.

Perception

Has been accepted in many western countries and is being promoted as an herbal alternative to modern medicine (allopathy).

Popularity has reduced after introduction of modern medicine (allopathy). Largely unknown outside of India.