Siddha medicine is a time-honored medical practice found predominantly in South India. The term "Siddha" originates from the Tamil word denoting perfection. In this tradition, each person is viewed as a miniature version of the universe. The human body is composed of five fundamental elements: earth, water, fire, air, and space, along with three humours—vatha, pitta, and kapha—and seven physical components. Food serves as the foundational substance for the body, transforming into humours, tissues, and waste. Health is seen as the balance of these humours, while any disruption or imbalance leads to illness. The approach equally values the body, mind, and spirit, aiming to restore the individual's natural harmony. Treatment focuses on reestablishing balance in the mind-body connection. Diet, lifestyle choices, yoga, and meditation are crucial not only for sustaining health but also for healing ailments.
