Cardio vascular diseases – A Social Burden and An approach through Siddha system of

Medicine
Dr.A.Faridha
Siddha Physician
Pothigai Siddha Speciality Centre
26, Perumal Koil Street
Puducherry – 605001

Cardio vascular diseases (CVD) is one of the leading Non-Communicable diseases in

recent years which accounts for 26% of mortality in India. CVDs are caused by disorders of
the heart and blood vessels and includes coronary heart disease (heart attacks), cerebrovascular
disease (stroke), raised blood pressure (hypertension), peripheral artery disease, rheumatic and
congenital heart disease and heart failure. CVD deaths are predominantly due to heart attacks
and strokes. The triggering factors which accounts for cardiac diseases are tobacco use,
unhealthy diet, physical inactivity and the harmful use of alcohol which in turn lead to raised
blood pressure, elevated blood glucose, overweight and obesity.
Siddha system of medicine is the traditional medicine of Tamilians which emphasizes
the rejuvenative and revitalizing potency with Kaya Karpa medicines for the prevention of
diseases and betterment of health. The diseases of heart are demonstrated as Iruthaya Noigal,
Thamaraga Noigal and Ruthra Rogam in Siddha literatures. In Siddha, the development of
disease is explained with alterations in the three vital forces viz. vali, azhal and iyyam which
in conglomeration balances the normal functioning of our body. The altered traditional food
regimen and lifestyle regimen lead to variations in these vitals resulting in disease condition.
Naal ozhukkam and Kaala ozhukkam are the major preventive measures indicated in Siddha
literatures for disease prevention many decades before which gains advantage in recent days
with proven findings. Enormous medicinal plants possess cardioprotective properties and are
helpful in the prevention and management of cardiac diseases due to the antioxidants contained
in it which ultimately reduce the lipid peroxidation and free radical damage. Common
ingredients which we use daily in our cuisine such as ginger, coriander seeds, cumin seeds,
fennel seeds, turmeric, pepper, onion, garlic, basil leaves and coconut can help prevent the risk
factors. Medicines such as Marutham pattai kudineer, Elathi chooranam, Thiripala chooranam
(combination of Kadukkai, Nellikai and Thandrikai), Seenthil chooranam, Seeraga chooranam
and some mineral preparations are effectively used for the disease management. Usage of
Indhuppu, Kodam puli (Garcinia), Seeraga Kudineer, Kothamalli Kudineer, consumption of
millet diet at least three days a week in our daily routine can prevent the accumulation of
excessive lipids in the blood vessels. Avoiding artificial taste enhancers, excessive salt and
sugar intake, root tubers, fried and burnt food items, tinned foods, alcohol consumption,
tobacco usage and implementing proper sleep, stress free life, brisk walking daily plays an
important role in the disease prevention. Pranayamam (breathing exercise) and Yogasanam
(Postures) in Siddha tradition may overcome the physical inactivity. Management of CVD can
be effectively handled through integrative approach with contemporary medicine in the stage
of emergency medical care. Hence, heart diseases can be prevented and managed effectively
with individual’s approach to the problem. Taking care of our heart is the motive of world heart
day, a good heart needs good care, Hope you will do so.