KAMASUTRA

Kamasutra is an ancient Indian text renowned more for the practical advice it gives on sexual intercourse (which is just a part of it). The words “kama” and “sutra” have definite meanings. Kama means desire in the general sense but particularly sexual desire. Sutra literally means thread but it is implied in the sense of a thread to hold a line going in a direction. In Sanskrit it refers to a set of aphorisms or verses that form a manual.

The Kamasutra is not exclusively on sex as popularly believed. It is a guide book or art of leading a virtuously which touches upon many aspects of social and individual life such as nature of love, family life and pleasure oriented activities with much needed restraint.

With 1250 verses divided in 36 chapters organized into 7 parts, it offers an excellent commentary on various aspects of a householder’s life in providing better sex life and may helps in solving sexual problems.

Part 1

The first part deals with goals and priorities of life, how to acquire knowledge, dealings of well-bred citizen, suggestions for the intermediaries who hep in lover’s enterprises.

Part 2

Deals with stimulation of desire, kinds of embraces, kissing and caressing, amorous marking with nails, amorous biting acts and making a mark with teeth, positions of copulation, slapping followed by moaning, virile behaviour in women, better coition, precursors and conclusions of the art of love making. 64 types of sexual acts are described in it. Kamasutra has become notorious for this part of the book.

Part 3

Deals with types of marriage, making the girl feel relaxed, getting the girl, surviving alone, union by marriage.

Part 4

Deals with conduct of the only wife and in case there are more than one, the conduct of chief wife and other wives.

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Part 5

Deals with behaviour of women and men, how to get to know each other, evaluation of sentiments, the task of go-between, the king's pleasures, behavior in the women's quarters (6 chapters).

Part 6

Deals with advice of the amorous assistants on making a choice of lovers, finding a steady lover, how to earn money, making up with a former lover and renewing friendship, occasional profits, profits and losses.

Part 7

Deals with improvement of physical attractions and stirring up a damaged sexual power.

The following 64 arts are to be studied with the Kama Sutra:

Singing

Playing on musical instruments

Dancing

Union of dancing, singing, and playing instrumental music

Writing and drawing

Tattooing

Arraying and adorning an idol with rice and flowers

Spreading and arranging beds or couches of flowers, or flowers upon the ground

Coloring the teeth, garments, hair, nails and bodies, i.e. staining, dyeing, Coloring and painting the same

Fixing stained glass into a floor

The art of making beds, and spreading out carpets and cushions for reclining

Playing on musical glasses filled with water

Storing and accumulating water in aqueducts, cisterns and reservoirs

Picture making, trimming and decorating

Stringing of rosaries, necklaces, garlands and wreaths

Binding of turbans and chaplets, and making crests and top-knots of flowers

Scenic representations, stage playing Art of making ear ornaments Art

Preparing perfumes and odors

Proper disposition of jewels and decorations, and adornment in dress

Magic or sorcery

Quickness of hand or manual skill

Culinary art, i.e. cooking and cookery

Making lemonades, sherbets, acidulated drinks, and spirituous extracts with proper flavor and colour

Tailor's work and sewing

Making parrots, flowers, tufts, tassels, bunches, bosses, knobs, etc., out of yarn or thread

Solution of riddles, enigmas, covert speeches, verbal puzzles and enigmatical questions

A game, which consisted in repeating verses, and as one person finished, another person had to commence at once, repeating another verse, beginning with the same letter with which the last speaker's verse ended, whoever failed to repeat was considered to have lost, and to be subject to pay a forfeit or stake of some kind

The art of mimicry or imitation

Reading, including chanting and intoning

Study of sentences difficult to pronounce. It is played as a game chiefly by women, and children and consists of a difficult sentence being given, and when repeated quickly, the words are often transposed or badly pronounced

Practice with sword, single stick, quarter staff and bow and arrow

Drawing inferences, reasoning or inferring

Carpentry, or the work of a carpenter

Architecture, or the art of building

Knowledge about gold and silver coins, and jewels and gems

Chemistry and mineralogy

Coloring jewels, gems and beads

Knowledge of mines and quarries

Gardening; knowledge of treating the diseases of trees and plants, of nourishing them, and determining their ages

Art of cock fighting, quail fighting and ram fighting

Art of teaching parrots and starlings to speak

Art of applying perfumed ointments to the body, and of dressing the hair with unguents and perfumes and braiding it

The art of understanding writing in cipher, and the writing of words in a peculiar way

The art of speaking by changing the forms of words. It is of various kinds. Some speak by changing the beginning and end of words, others by adding unnecessary letters between every syllable of a word, and so on

Knowledge of language and of the vernacular dialects

Art of making flower carriages

Art of framing mystical diagrams, of addressing spells and charms, and binding armlets

Mental exercises, such as completing stanzas or verses on receiving a part of them; or supplying one, two or three lines when the remaining lines are given indiscriminately from different verses, so as to make the whole an entire verse with regard to its meaning; or arranging the words of a verse written irregularly by separating the vowels from the consonants, or leaving them out altogether; or putting into verse or prose sentences represented by signs or symbols. There are many other such exercises.

Composing poems

Knowledge of dictionaries and vocabularies

Knowledge of ways of changing and disguising the appearance of persons

Knowledge of the art of changing the appearance of things, such as making cotton to appear as silk, coarse and common things to appear as fine and good.

Various ways of gambling

Art of obtaining possession of the property of others by means of mantras or incantations

Skill in youthful sports

Knowledge of the rules of society, and of how to pay respect and compliments to others

Knowledge of the art of war, of arms, of armies, etc.

Knowledge of gymnastics

Art of knowing the character of a man from his features

Knowledge of scanning or constructing verses

Arithmetical recreations

Making artificial flowers

Making figures and images in clay

A public woman, endowed with a good disposition, beauty and other winning qualities, and also versed in the above arts, obtains the name of aGanika, or public woman of high quality, and receives a seat of honour in an assemblage of men.

She is, moreover, always respected by the king, and praised by learned men, and her favour being sought for by all, she becomes an object of universal regard. The daughter of a king too as well as the daughter of a minister, being learned in the above arts, can make their husbands favorable to them, even though these may have thousands of other wives besides themselves.

If a wife becomes separated from her husband, and falls into distress, she can support herself easily, even in a foreign country, by means of her knowledge of these arts. Even the bare knowledge of them gives attractiveness to a woman, though the practice of them may be only possible or otherwise according to the circumstances of each case.

A man who is versed in these arts, who is loquacious and acquainted with the arts of gallantry, gains very soon the hearts of women, even though he is only acquainted with them for a short time.

Kama Sutra: 4 Kinds of Love

Men learned in the humanities are of opinion that love is of four kinds:

1) Love acquired by continual habit

Love resulting from the constant and continual performance of some act is called love acquired by constant practice and habit, as for instance the love of sexual intercourse, the love of hunting, the love of drinking, the love of gambling, etc., etc.

2) Love resulting from the imagination

Love which is felt for things to which we are not habituated, and which proceeds entirely from ideas, is called love resulting from imagination, as for instance that love which some men and women and eunuchs feel for the Auparishtaka or mouth congress, and that which is felt by all for such things as embracing, kissing etc.

3) Love resulting from belief

The love which is mutual on both sides, and proved to be true, when each looks upon the other as his or her very own, such is called love resulting from belief by the learned.

4) Love resulting from the perception of external objects

The love resulting from the perception of external objects is quite evident and well known to the world. because the pleasure which it affords is superior to the pleasure of the other kinds of love, which exists only for its sake.

SIDDHARS

About Siddhar's (Siddha's)

Who is a siddha ? A siddha is one who has attained siddhi, i.e. "power, prowess, strength, ability", then a special kind of psychic and supernatural, miraculous, occult power. There are eight kinds of super natural powers called as "Ashtama Siddhis":

1. Anima (shrinking) -- Power of becoming the size of an atom and entering the smallest beings.
2. Mahima (illimitability) -- Power of becoming mighty and co-extensive with the universe. The power of increasing one's size without limit.
3. Lagima (lightness) -- Capacity to be quite light though big in size.
4. Garima (weight) -- Capacity to weigh heavy, though seemingly small size.
5. Prapthi (fulfillment of desires) -- Capacity to enter all the worlds from Brahma Loga to the neither world. It is the power of attaining everything desired.
6. Prakasysm (irresistable will) -- Power of disembodying and entering into other bodies (metempsychosis) and going to heaven and enjoying what everyone aspires for, simply from where he stays.
7. Isithavam (supremacy) -- Have the creative power of God and control over the Sun, the moon and the elements and
8. Vasithavam (dominion over the elements) -- Power of control over King and Gods. The power of changing the course of nature and assuming any form.

A classical definition of siddhas is given by Siddhar Thirumoolar: "Those who live in yoga and see the divine light and power through yoga are the siddhars (Tamil Chittar)".
According to Kamil Zvelebil, there are some features which are typical for all or almost all siddhars as a body of thinkers.

• First, in sharp opposition to the bhakti tradition, they refuse to allow themselves be carried away by idol worship in particular temples.
• Second, in contrast to bhakti which emphasizes passionate devotion to God, the siddhar emphasize knowledge, yoga practice, and character, moral behavior, right conduct. Anger, lust and egoism are the worst sins.
• Third, almost all siddhar's raise a protest against caste and casteism.

The whole atmosphere of siddha thinking is empirical and experimental. Their writings are not in the nature of clear cut formalized statements of any well defined doctrine. Hence, it is difficult to extricate a philosophical system out of their writings, at least at the present state of our knowledge of their works. However, it is possible to point out a few essential features, and one day, when their writings are better known, it should be possible to state their philosophy more explicitly.
This web site is devoted to publishing the works of siddhars for the internet community. Most of the works are available only in Tamil and it is possible that the author of document interprets things in his own way while translating the original text. An attempt is made to present information about siddhars here.
References

1. Chapter Eighteen (Pages 364 & 365) of book entitled "Eighteen Siddhars in History of Siddha Medicine" by Mr. N. Kandasamy Pillai, Former Member, Siddha Science Development Committee and Published by the Government of Tamil Nadu in 1979.
2. Chapter Fourteen (Pages 224 & 225) of book entitled "The Smile of Murugan of Tamil Literature of South India" by Kamil Zvelebil and Published by E.J. Brill, Leiden, Netherlands in 1973 (ISBN 90 04 03591 5).
3. Song 1490 of "Thirumandiram Moovayiram" by Siddhar Thirumoolar.

The 18 Siddhars

There are 18 siddhars in the tamil siddha tradition. Each of the siddhars had lived in varied places under different names. The following are most common names of the 18 siddhars. They are listed in the order of their time period.

1. Sri Pathanjali Siddhar
2. Sri Agasthiar Siddhar
3. Sri Kamalamuni Siddhar
4. Sri Thirumoolar Siddhar
5. Sri Kuthambai Siddhar
6. Sri Korakkar Siddhar
7. Sri Thanvandri Siddhar
8. Sri Sundaranandar Siddhar
9. Sri Konganar Siddhar
10. Sri Sattamuni Siddhar
11. Sri Vanmeegar Siddhar
12. Sri Ramadevar Siddhar
13. Sri Nandeeswarar Siddhar
14. Sri Edaikkadar Siddhar
15. Sri Machamuni Siddhar
16. Sri Karuvoorar Siddhar
17. Sri Bogar Siddhar
18. Sri Pambatti Siddhar

The Other Siddhars

Apart from the 18 siddhars given above, there are also other siddhars. It is possible that the siddhars given below are the same siddhars (the 18 siddhars), but under different name. They might also be the disciples of the siddhars, who by the process 'Transmigration of Souls' became the one and same as the Guru himself. Only a true Siddha Yogi shall do any classification with full confidence.

1. Sivavakkiyar
2. Pattinattar
3. (List to be expanded later)

Table of 18 Siddhars

Sl. No	Name of the Siddhar	Tamil month of Birth	Tamil Birth Star	Duration of Life	Place of Samadhi
1	Sri Pathanjali	Panguni	Moolam	5 Yugas 7 Days	Rameswaram
2	Sri Agasthiar	Markazhi	Aayilyam	4 Yugas 48 Days	Thiruvananthapuram
3	Sri Kamalamuni	Vaikasi	Poosam	4000 Years 48 Days	Thiruvarur
4	Sri Thirumoolar	Purattathi	Avittam	3000 Years 13 Days	Chidambaram
5	Sri Kuthambai	Aadi	Visagam	1800 Years 16 Days	Mayavaram
6	Sri Korakkar	Karthigai	Aayilyam	880 Years 11 Days	Perur
7	Sri Thanvandri	Iyppasi	Punarpoosam	800 Years 32 Days	Vaideeswarankoil
8	Sri Sundaranandar	Aavani	Revathi	800 Years 28 Days	Madurai
9	Sri Konganar	Chitthirai	Utthiradam	800 Years 16 Days	Titupathi
10	Sri Sattamuni	Aavani	Mrigasirisham	800 Years 14 Days	Thiruvarangam
11	Sri Vaanmeegar / Valmiki	Purattasi	Anusham	700 Years 32 Days	Ettukudi
12	Sri Ramadevar	Masi	Pooram	700 Years 06 Days	Azhagarmalai
13	Sri Nandeeswarar	Vaikasi	Visagam	700 Years 03 Days	Kasi
14	Sri Edaikkadar	Purattasi	Thiruvadirai	600 Years 18 Days	Tiruvannamalai
15	Sri Machamuni	Aadi	Rohini	300 Years 62 Days	Thiruparankundram
16	Sri Karuvoorar	Chitthirai	Hastham	300 Years 42 Days	Karuvur
17	Sri Bogar	Vaikasi	Bharani	300 Years 18 Days	Pazhani
18	Sri Pambatti	Karthigai	Mrigasirisham	123 Years 14 Days	Sankarankoil

18 Siddhars Jeeva Samadhi

Siddhars of Tamil Nadu attained Jeeva Samadhi at the following places.

Siddhar	Age	Place of Samadhi
Sri Pathanjali	5 Yugas 7 Days	Rameswaram
Sri Agastyar	4 Yugas 48 Days	Thiruvananthapuram
Sri Kamalamuni	4000 Years 48 Days	Thiruvarur
Sri Thirumoolar	3000 Years 13 Days	Chidambaram
Sri Kuthambai	1800 Years 16 Days	Mayavaram
Sri Korakkar	880 Years 11 Days	Perur
Sri Thanvandri	800 Years 32 Days	Vaideeswarankoil
Sri Sundaranandar	800 Years 28 Days	Madurai
Sri Konganar	800 Years 16 Days	Tirupathi
Sri Sattamuni	800 Years 14 Days	Thiruvarangam
Sri Vaanmeegar/Valmiki	700 Years 32 Days	Ettukudi
Sri Ramadevar	700 Years 06 Days	Azhagarmalai
Sri Nandeeswarar	700 Years 03 Days	Kasi
Sri Edaikkadar	600 Years 18 Days	Tiruvannamalai
Sri Machamuni	300 Years 62 Days	Thiruparankundram
Sri Karuvoorar	300 Years 42 Days	Karuvur
Sri Bogar	300 Years 18 Days	Pazhani
Sri Pambatti	123 Years 14 Days	Sankarankoil

LIFE AND HISTORY OF SIDDHARS IN INDIA

Siddhars are saints in India, mostly of the Saivaite denomination in Tamil Nadu, who professed and practised an unorthodox type of Sadhana, or spiritual practiBC, to attain liberation. Yogic powers called Siddhis are acquired by constant practiBC of BCrtain yogic disciplines. Those who acquire these Siddhis are called Siddhas.

Siddhars are people who are believed to control and transBCnd the barriers of time and spaBC by meditation (Yoga), after the use of substanBCs called Rasayanas that transform the body to make it potentially deathless, and a particular breathing-practiBC, a type of Pranayama. Through their practiBCs they are believed to have reached stages of insight which enabled them to tune into the powers hidden in various material substanBCs and practiBCs, useful for suffering and ignorant mankind. Typically Siddhars were saints, doctors, alchemists and mysticists all at onBC.

SIDDHA MEDICINE

They wrote their findings, in the form of poems in Tamil language, on palm leaf which are collected and stored in what are known today as Palm leaf manuscript. In this way Siddhars developed, among other branches of a vast knowledge-system, what is now known as Siddha medicine, practised mainly in Tamil Nadu as Traditional native medicine.

VARMAM – A martial art for self-defenBC and medical treatment

They are also founders of Varmam. Varmams are specific points located in the human body which when pressed in different ways can give various results, such as disabling an attacker in self-defenBC, or balancing a physical condition as an easy first-aid medical treatment.

NAADI  JODHIDAM (pulse reading)

Tamil Siddhars were the first to develop pulse-reading ("naadi paarththal" in Tamil)to identify the origin of diseases. This method was later copied and used in ayurvedha. Siddhars have also written many religious poems. It is believed that most of them have lived for ages, in a mystic mountain called Sathuragiri, near Thanipparai village in Tamil Nadu.

All Siddhars in order

One of the best-known Siddhars was Agasthyar or Agasthya, who is believed to be the founding father of Siddha culture. Many of the great Siddhars are regarded to have powers magical and spiritual.

All Sitthars were among the highest disciples of God Shiva, and are considered equal in their powers and devotion to the supreme God.

1. Lord Nandi, principal disciple of God Siva
2. Agastyar Maha Munivar disciple of Lord Muruga from Anantasayana, head of the monasteries at Pothigai and Kumbakonam
3. Boagar of Pazhani, disciple of Agathiyar and Kalangi Nathar, 12th c. BC
4. Thaeraiyar Muni of Ten Pothigai, disciple of Agastya, 10th c. BC
5. Kalaingai Nathar of Kalahastri monastery,10th c.BC
6. Korakkar of Paerur, from Thirukonamalai monastery, 4th c. BC
7. Pulippaani of Pazhani
8. Thadangann Siddhar
9. BramhaMuni, 3rd c. BC
10. Machamuni of Thirupparankundram, 3rd c. BC
11. Poonaikkannanaar of Egypt, 3rd c.BC
12. Romamunivar of Rome, 2nd c. BC
13. Kaaraichchiththar, 2nd c.BC
14. Kudhambai Siddhar of Mayilaaduthurai and Kumbakonam, 2nd c. BC
15. Kabilar I of Mithila, 2nd c. BC.
16. Kaagaivanna Siddhar[i] of Kediya(South Sri Lanka), from Pothigai monastery, 2nd c. BC
17. Dhanvantri from Kasi, of Vaitheeswaran Koil, 1st c. BC
18. Valmiki, aka Vaanmeegar of Ettukkudi, 1st c. BC
19. Maarkkandeyanaar
20. Koonkannar
21. Kaalaichchittar II
22. Konganar of Tirupati, 1st c. BC
23. Punnaakkeesar from Naangunaeri, head of Saanganachaeri monastery, 1st c. BC
24. Karuvurar from Karuvur monastery
25. Kaaduvelichchiththar
26. Aenaathichchittar, 2nd c. BC
27. Idaikkaadar of Oosimuri(in Thondai Nadu), from ThiruAnnaamalai monastery, 2nd-3rd c. BC
28. Pulasthiyarfrom Maanthai, head of Aavudaiyaar Koil and Yaazhppaanam monasteries, 3rd c. BC
29. KamalaMuni of Thiruvaarur, 4th c. BC
30. Patanjali of Rameswaram, 4th c. BC
31. Azhaganiyaar of Nagapattinam, 4th c. BC
32. Kailasanathar, 5th c. BC
33. Kuranguchchittar of Pazhani, 5th c. BC
34. Sattaimuni of ThiruArangam, 5th c. BC
35. Vaamathevar of Azhagarmalai, 5th c. BC
36. Agappaei Siddhar of Azhagarmalai, 3rd c. BC
37. Sivavaakkiyar from Kollimalai, of Thirumazhisai monastery, 4-5th c. BC
38. Sundarandandar of Madurai, 5th c. BC
39. Ramadevar of Azhagarmalai
40. Thirumoolar from ThiruAaAduthurai, of ThiruAathavoor monastery, head of Thillai Citrambalam monastery, 8th c. BC
41. Sri Jnyaaneswar of Gujarat
42. Kaagapujundar, Leader for all nathats, 8 BC
43. VaasaMuni
44. KoormaMuni
45. Visvamitrar
46. Kumbhamuni
47. Kaduveli of Irumbai
48. Nandeeswarar of Kasi, from Thillai monastery, 6th c. BC
49. Pattinattaar of Pugaar, 7th c. BC
50. Karuvoorar from Karuvoor, of Thanjai monastery, master of Rajaraja Chola, 10th c. BC
51. Pambatti Siddhar from Jnaneswaram(Sarankovil), of Vilaimalai( Vriddhachalam ) monastery, 15th c.
52. Vaalai Siddhar of Valangaimaan
53. Edaikadar II, 15th c. BC
54. Ganapathi Siddhar
55. Subrahmanya Siddhar
56. Sooriyaananthar
57. Lokaayuthar
58. Bathragiriyaar of Badrachalam, from Thillai monastery
59. Kalunni Siddhar
60. Naga Siddhar (mahavatar babaji) disciple of Agathiyar and Bogar, from Himalaya
61. ArunaGiri Nathar 1500th,from Thiruvanamalai

18 SIDDHARS :

1.Thirumoolar            
He has been initiated by Nandi Devar and his contributions include Yoga, philosophy. His 'Thirumandiram' work is very popular among his works. He has attained samadhi in Chidambaram.

2.Ramadevar
He was initiated by Pulastiyar and Karuvoorar. He is also known as the mandira siddhar. Some of his works include 24 known works: mantra shastra, medicine etc. He has attained samadhi at Alagar Malai.

3.kumbamuni
He was initiated directly by Lord Shiva himself and his works include medicine, kaya kalpa, Tamil grammar and yoga. Some of his disciples are Boganathar, Babaji, Thiruvalluvar, Macchamuni. He has attained samadhi at Ananthasayana.

4.Konganavar
He was initiated by Boganathar. His contributions include 25 known works in medicine, yoga, philosophy, religion etc. He has over 557 disciples. He has attained samadhi at Tirupati.

5.Kamlamuni
He has attained samadhi at Aarur (Tiruvarum). His contributions include two known works on medicine and philosophy.

6.Sattamuni
  He was initiated by Nandi Devar & Dakshinamoorthy. His contributions include 46 known works, medicine, alchemy & etc. His disciples include Sundaranandar, Paambatti. He has attained samadhi at Srirangam.

7.Karuvooraar
He was one of the eminient disciples of Boganathar after being initiated by him. He is popular for his contribution in constructing the Tanjore temple and other medicinal works. Idai Kadar is one of his eminent disciples. He has attained samadhi at Karuvai (karur).

8.Suntharaananthar
He was initiated by Sattamuni & Konkanavar. Some of his contributions include 24 known works: medicine, philosophy etc. He has attained samadhi at Kudal (Madurai).

9.Vaalmeegar
He was initiated by the great sage Narada. He is very much known for recording the epic work 'The Ramayana'. He has attained samadhi at Ettikudi.

10.Nanthidevar
He has been directly initiated by Lord Shiva himself and some of his contributions include medicine, kaya kalpa & Alchemy. Some of his eminent disciples are Thirumoolar, Patanjali, Dakshinamoorthy, Romarishi & Sattamuni.

11.Paambatti 
He was initiated by Sattamuni. His contributions include siddha philosophy. He has attained samadhi at Harisankaran kovil. He was originally a snake charmer before he met his guru Sattamuni. Later after being initiated by his guru, due to his intense sadhana he has became a siddha.

12.Boganaathar
He was initiated by Kalanginathar and Agastyar. He is a great alchemist of all times. His contributions include yoga, kaya kalpa, medicine, alchemy, natural sciences, philosophy etc. He is the one who has created and installed the idol of Lord Muruga in Palani malai temple. Till now even after ages, the composition of the idol has been a mystery to all scientists around the world. His disciples include Babaji, Konkanavar, Karuvoorar and Idai Kadar.

13.Matchamuni
He has been initiated by Agastyar, Punnakeesar and Pasundar. Some of his contributions include 10 known works on Hatha yoga, Tantric yoga practices etc. Goraknath is one of his eminent disciples. He has attained samadhi at Thiruparrunkundram.

14.Korakkar
He was initiated by Dattatreya (Vishnu), Macchamuni, Allama Prabu. Some of his contributions include "Avadhuta Gita" and 13 other works, order of ascetics, medicine, alchemy, Hatha yoga pradipika classic etc. He has attained samadhi at Poyur (Girnar).

15.Pathanjali
He was initiated by Nandi Devar. He is known for his works on yoga sutras classic. He has attained samadhi at Rameswaram. He is also known as father of yoga.

16.Thanvanthiri
He is known for his contributions on medicine, alchemy, kaya kalpa, 22 known works. He has attained samadhi at Vaideeswaran Kovil.

17.Kuthambai siddhar
He was initiated by Alukkani Siddha (disciple of Idai Kadar). Kudamabi siddhar's contributions included siddha philosophy. His place of samadhi has been Mayavaram.

18.Edaikkadar
He was initiated by both Boganathar and Karuvoorar. His contributions include two known works: Kaya kalpa. He attained samadhi at Thiruvannamalai. Some of his disciples are Kudambai and Alukkani.

MATERIA MEDICA:

               Siddhars , with their clarified and inituitive intellect resulting from their yogic powers explored the nature and exploited the natural resources for the sake of humanity. They documented their findings  about  the characteristics of  plants , metals,  minerals and animal products. They documented all their findings in the form of poems for the use of  posterity. Knowledge was transmitted from Guru to disciples. Their boundless knowledge on the properties of  drugs, purification, processing, heat application, fixing dosage , toxicity , antidote and clinical application is astonishing  the modern scientific world.

HOME REMEDIES

Siddha

FEVER

For ordinary fever and intermittent fever the following decoction may be administered:-

Preparation

Take Nilavembu (Chiratta) leaves two handful add 2 glass of water boil and reduce to 50ml. and filter.

Dose: 1/2 glass 2 times or 3 times a day

If fever is accompanied with bodyache, 2 piece of Arathai (Galanga the lesser), one teaspoon of MILAGU (pepper) and 2 piece of CHUKKU (Dry Ginger) may be added for the above preparation. But the quantity of water to be increased proportionately.

If cough is present with fever, 10 Nos of Adathodai leaves (ADATHODA VASICA) may be added with the preparation.

COUGH

(a) Take three leaves of Adathodai(ADATHODA VASICA) cut them into small pieces, and put the pieces into a vessel. add two teaspoon full of honey and fry the content until some pleasant smell comes. At that stage add the following coarsely powdered Athimathuram(Jamaica liquorice) 1 piece Thippli (Piper longum) 1 pinch Thalisapathri (Flucourtia calaphracta) 1/2 gm., Chitharathai(galanga the lesser) 3 piece then add 4 glasses of water and boil, reduce to 1/2 glass.

Dose: 1/2 glass two times a day.

(b) Take 2 glasses of water. Add the following drugs, Adathodai leaves (Adathoda Vasica) three numbers, Kandankathiri leaves (Solanum Xanthocarpum) five numbers. Thulasi (holy basil) leaves five numbers Thoothuvalai (Trilobatum) leaves ten numbers and 3 gms.,  of Athimathuram (Jamaica liquorice) after roughly powdering them boil and reduce into 1/2 glass.

Dose: 1/2 glass two times a day with honey.

(c) 10 gms., of the root of Thoothuvalai(Trilobatum), grind with Cow's milk and to be taken in the morning.

(d) Adathodai leaves juice 30 ml. (ADATHODA VASICA) , Finely powdered Milagu(pepper) 6 gms., Perugayam (asafoetida) 1 gm. mixed all and take in the morning and evening.

(e) For Chronic cough, it will give relief when 2 gms.,  of chooranam (powder) which is made out of equal quantity of Kadukkai (Chebulic myrobolan, Ink nut) and "Thippli" (Piper longum) is administered in honey twice daily.

IRAIPPU - ERUMAL - (Bronchial Asthma)

a) Combine 2 Nanjaruppan (Tylophora Indica) leaves and two numbers of milagu (Pepper) and a piece of Chukku (Dry ginger) to be taken in the morning along with milk.

DRY COUGH

Keep a piece of Athimathuram (Indian Liquorice) and two numbers of Milagu(Pepper) in the mouth and swallow the saliva.

HEADACHE

a) For running nose, headache, boil Nochi leaves (vitex negundo) in the water and place red hot brick on it. The vapour is inhaled by covering the body with a blanket.

b) Juice of Thumbai flower (Leucus) 2 drops may be instilled in nostrils which will produce sneezing, after which headache (due to cold) will be relieved.

c) Produce smoke by putting Omam (Carum copticum) Milagu(Pepper) Poondu thole (rind of the garlic) in fire and inhale the same.

Flatulance due to indigestion

a) Omam (Carcum Copticum) 35 gms. Milgu (pepper) 35 gms.  fry. combine this with palm jaggery and grind.

Dose: Betal nut size, morning and evening.

(b) Poondu (Garlic) Milagu (Pepper) Karisalai leaves (Eclipta Alba) in equal parts. Grind and administer twice daily in betal nut size.

DYSENTERY

a) One Mangoosthan (Mangostain) fruit can be taken twice a day

b) Powdered dried mango fruit.

Dose: One teaspoonful with Butter milk two times a day.

c) Powder of Vetpalai seeds (Wrightiatinctoria).

Dose: One teaspoonful with honey two times a day.

d) Powdered kadukkai thole (Rind of the Terminalia Chebula).

Dose: two gms. with honey.

e) Mathulampazha thole (rind of the Pomegranate) 10 gms., 

Mangoosthan pazha thole (rind of the Garcinia mangosthan 10 gms. Lavangam (clove) 4 gms., 

Kasakasa (opium poppy seeds) one teaspoonful.

Powder the above drugs coarsely and boil with the 2 gms. of water and reduce to half and filter.

Dose: 30 ml. two times a day.

f) Extract milk from half of a coconut, and mix 2 gms., of Kasukkatti (catechu) and administer two times a day.

VOMITING

a) Soak Seeragam (Cumin seed) in the lime juice and dry. Then powder the Seeragam nicely.

Dose: 500 mg. with honey two times a day.

b) Burn vasambu (acorus calamus) until it becomes coal and powder.

Dose: 200 mg. with honey.

c) Take equal quantity of juice of Mathulam Pazham (Pomegranate fruit) and cane sugar. Boil till it becomes a syrup. Administer one teaspoonful twice day.

CONSTIPATION

a) Soak ten gms. of dried Drakshai (Grapes) in sufficient water for some time and crush the Drakshai and take it at bed time.

b) Take five-numbers of Seemai Athippazham (Country fig) at bed time

c) Take papaya fruit either with food or separately (except pregnant ladies)

d) Soak 5 gms. of Nilavarai leaves (Indian senna leaves) in 1 glass of water for sometimes, and make it as a decoction 1/2 glass and filter it and take it at bed time.

FEVER WITH THIRST

Boil 5 gms., of alpagoda pazham (Prunus communis) in 1/2 glass of water, reduce to quarter, filter and administered with sugar, quantity sufficient at bed time. It acts as a Laxative also.

WHITE DISCHARGE

Five drops of Chandana Athar (Sandalwood oil) to be taken with Peyan vazhaippazham (Plantain) twice daily.

POLYUREA

a) Take dried flowers of Avarai (cassia auriculata), the tanner cassiae, 15 gms and prepare decoction with sufficient quantity of water.

Dose: 60 ml. two times a day.

b) Juice extracted from Kodippagal Kai (Bitter gourd) and to be taken in doses of 1/2 oz. (15 ml) twice daily.

SCABIES AND ITCHES

a) Juice of Kuppaimeni leaves (Acalypha Indica) with common salt may be applied externally.

b) Soak one part of karbogi Arisi(Psoralia corylifolia) in four  parts of coconut oil and apply the oil externally for skin infection.

c) Grind Arugampul (Cynodon daetylon) with a piece of Turmeric and apply externally for skin infection.

PADARTHAMARAI(Ringworm Infection)

Extract juice from the pods of Poovarasam(Thespesi piopulrea) and apply externally.

DANDRUFF

a) Grind Kattu Seeragam (Vemonnia anthelmintica with lime juice and apply on the head)

b) Take equal quantities of Kichilli Kizhangu (curcuma Zedoaria) manippungan Kai (seeds of sepaidus trifoliates) and Kasthuri Manjal (Curcuma aromatica) grind with water and apply on the head and take bath.

HAIR TONIC

Take Nellikai (Indian goose berry) juice 2 litres. Buffalo's milk 2 litres and gingelly oil 1 litre, boil up to thyla bagum and filter it, apply to the hair daily.

MANTHAM

a) Veliparuthi (Daemia Extensa) juice 15 drops to be mixed with one teaspoonful of castor oil and can be given in the morning.

b) Nochi (Vitex negundo), Nuna (Morinda tinctoria) Poduthalai (Leppia Nodiflora) is taken in equal parts (5 gms.) add 60ml. of water and reduce to 15 ml. by boiling, can be given in one teaspoonful dose three times a day.

c) Take 50ml. of water add 2 gms. of perungayam (Ferula asafoetida) and dissolve it. Administer 3 teaspoonful of solution with 5 drops of oma theeneer (distilled from carum trachyspermum roxburghianum) twice a day.

Ayurveda

Pyrexia (Fever).

1. Decoction of  Parpataka herb (parpadakapul)  1/4 tumbler relieves pyrexia.

2. Tinospora (Seenthikodi) decoction with some black pepper powder will relieve chronic fevers -1/4 tumbler & 1/4 tea spoon respectively.

3. Sacred basil leaf (tulasi) juice and Leucus (tumbai) leaf juice along with some black pepper will cure periodic fevers--two teaspoon each and 1/4 tea spoon respectively.

Coughs

1. Take the decoction of Adhatoda roots with some honey and powder of long pepper-1/4 tumbler  with  1/4 tea spoon  and one teaspoon honey.

2. Ginger juice with honey is also a good remedy--1/2  teaspoon juice with one teaspoon honey.

3. Take about  1 pinch of Chebulic myrobalan (Kadukkai) powder with some honey or equal quantity of liquorice root powder (Athimadhuram).  It cures cough with inflamed throat.

4. Leucus Leaf (tumbai) juice with honey is useful in whooping cough  1/2 teaspoonful with 1/2 teaspoon  honey.

Diarrhoea.

1. Take the pulp of Bael fruit (bilva) along with some sugar to relieve Diarrhoeas  accompanied by stomach ache--1 tea spoon.

2. Mix equal volumes of yellow wood sorrel leaf (puliyarai) juice and butter milk and   boil.  Add  1/4 tea spoon of Ajowan (omam) powder.  It cures diarrhoeas and dysentery 2 teaspoon.

3. Take powdered nut gall (masikkai) and  mix with some honey 1/4 tea spoon.  Three doses  will cure diarrhoes and dysentery in children.

4. Take Nutmeg (Jadikkai) and tender mango leaves in equal parts by weight and make  decoction.  This is to be given with honey 2 teaspoon.

5. Powder of nut grass tubers (korai Kizhangu) and Aswagand tubers (amukara  kizhangu) in equal quantity is given with honey--1 teaspoon.

6. Long pepper (arisitippili) ground with milk is to be given for three days to treat   chronic dysentery--1/2 tea spoon.

Emesis (Vomiting)

1. Take powdered coriander (daniya) or cardamom (elakkai) with tender coconut water         --1/2 tea spoon..

2. Give some quantity of coriander powder with rice washed water and sugar candy to  cure morning sickness-- 1  tea spoon  in 1/4 tumbler

Constipation.

1. Take castor (amanakku) root decoction with cow's milk and sugar in the morning in  empty stomach--Each 1/4 tumbler.

2. Grind castor root with some butter into fine paste, Apply a little on the tongue of   infants to relieve constipation--1pinch.

Emaciation and Weakness.

Take  equal 2 tea spoon powder of Aswagant roots with some milk and sugar or with  gingelly oil.  Regular in take will remove fatigue and weakness and it is an anabolic.

Tooth Ache.

1. Use long pepper powder with  some guggulu glu for brushing and cleaning the teeth.

2. Grind Fenugreek seeds (vendayam) with egg albumin into a fine paste and apply on the     cheek ( 2  tea spoon.).

3. Gargle with ginger juice mixed with honey 

4. Gargle with a decoction of drum stick root juice and Mustard 1/2 tumbler. ( 2 tea spoon Mustard).

Head Ache

1. Grind cleaning nut (tetrankotai)  in egg albumin and apply externally.

Unani

1.	Sue-a-Hazam (Indigestion)	a) Sounf (Sombu) Sugar b) Adrak (Inji)     Namak (Uppu)	Powder the ingredients in equal parts 1/2 teaspoon to be taken twice a day after food. Make Adrak into small bits 1/2 teaspoon of  adrak with a pinch of salt to be taken after food.
2.	Quabz (Constipation)	a) Ispaghoul b) Sanna leaves (Nilavarai)     Sugar	One teaspoon of Ispaghoul to be soaked in 1/2 a cup of water for 2 hours Luab-e-Ispaghoul to be taken at bed time. One table spoon of  sanna leaves to be boiled in one cup of milk and filtered. The filterate to be mixed with sufficient quantity of sugar and to be taken on empty stomach early in the morning
3.	Ishal (Diarrhoea)	Amla (Nellikai) Sugar	12 Nos. soaked in sufficient quantity of water over night. Boil it and make paste without seeds. The paste to be added to the khivam of sugar. 1/2 teaspoon to be taken twice a day.
4.	Sual (Cough)	a) Asal-e-soos (Adimathuram)     Sugar b) Chilbeenj (Thetankottai)     Honey	10 Nos. of Asal-e-soos with two table spoon of sugar to be powdered. 1/2 teaspoon grams of powder to be taken thrice a day with water. 10 Nos. of chilbeennj (fried and powdered) mixed with 1/2 cup quantity of warm honey. 1/4 teaspoon to be taken twice a day.
5.	Sailanur Raham (Leucorrhoea)	Saboos-e-Ispaghoul (Ispaghoul ummi)	Two teaspoon of saboos-e-Ispaghoul with 1/4 cup quantity of honey to be taken twice a day.
6.	Hurkatul - bole (Burning micturition)	Dry Kharkhask (Nerunji Mullu)	Three table spoon of Dry Kharkhask soaked in 3 cup of water over night. Boil and filter it next morning. 1/2 cup of filterate to be taken with pinch of sugar twice a day.
7.	Wajaul Asnan (Tooth Ache)	Tanbaku (Pugaiyilai) 10 grams Siahmirch (Millagu) 2 grams	Powder the ingredients, use as tooth powder.
8.	Hikkah (Scabies)	Berg-e-Neem (Veppelai fresh)	Three table spoon of Berg-e-Neem is boiled in 1/2 cup of water and Honey filtered. 1/2 cup of the filterate to be taken with honey twice a day.
9.	Wajaul Meda (Abdominal pain)	Namak-e-Hazim (Appam soda) 6 gms. Ilaichi Dane (Elakai vidai) 2 gms.	Both to be powdered final and 3 grams to be taken twice a day with water.
10.	Be-khabi (Sleeplessness)	Khashkhash safeed 10 gms. Kasakasa Roghane-Kunjad (Nalla Ennai)	Soak Khashkhash safeed in 1/2 cup of Roghan-e-kunjad over night. Boil, cool and filter it. Apply externally to the head at bed time.
11.	Yerkhan (Jaundice)	Tukm-e-Kasni 5gms. (Kasni virai) Gul-e-Surkh 15 gms. (Rojappu)	Both to be soaked 1 1/2 cup of water over night. Boil and filter it. 1/2 a cup of filterate to be taken twice a day.
12.	Humma (Fever)	Gulbail 15 gms. (Seendil kodi)	Soak 1 1/2 in cup of water over night, boil and filter it next morning. 1 1/2 cup of the filterate to be taken twice a day.

Note : If the symptom persists even after three days consult your nearest Siddha / Ayurveda / Unani Doctor for further course of treatment

Kadukai 

Benefit of Kadukai 

One- teaspoon full Kadukkai (Terminalia chebula) powder with hot water during bedtime will give relief from constipation.

- Mix a glass of milk with kadukai powder every night before going to bed. This is
very useful home remedy for heart care.

Kadukkai balances the three doshas. People who take Kadukkai in the prescribed methods can safeguard themselves against stomach ailments and live a long and healthy life.

Kadukkai is used in preparation of excellent remedies for digestive disorders, and kayakalpa. It induces appetite. It strengthens the stomach and helps in expulsion of fecal matter. It clears skin diseases, insect bites, and is used in treating jaundice.

Diseases cured by Kadukkai: Excessive urination, wounds, cough, jaundice, excessive thirst, impotency, liver diseases, leucorrhea, excessive bleeding, piles (hemorrhoids), stomach ache, indigestion, mouth ulcers etc.

People who should not take Kadukkai: People who have fasted, pregnant ladies, people with loss of digestive capacity.

Decoction of kadukkai helps in eye problems and excessive urination.

Kadukkai powdered and used for brushing your teeth stops bleeding of gums. It strengthens the gums and cures all gum diseases.

A kadukkai taken a day in the morning, for a year retards ageing and it is said grey hair would turn black.

INJI  - GINGER

As per the basic concept of Siddha, Inji

and Chukku plays very important role in Siddha preparations.

According to Siddha system, our human body is a wonderful replica representing the entire universe. The criterion by which an organism originates depends on 96 constituent principles. To elevate the soul on its spiritual journey, the Siddhas formulated an applied alchemy, the Kaya Kalpam (long-life elixir). Kaya means 'body, mind and psyche' and Kalpa means 'transmutation'. Kayakalpa is a transformative approach to health and consciousness to prevent and free from chronic diseases.

 It is because of its unique medicinal properties, and its healing power, this long-life elixir, Chebulic myrobalan is often known as the 'Kayakalpa.' The Siddha sages have prescribed like this: Consume Ginger in the morning; Dry Ginger in noon and Chebulic myrobalan or Kadukkai in the evening to keep your self young.

 

1. It is a Kayakalpa drug. Thin slices of inji are soaked in honey and two slices of inji to be taken daily for one mandalam (48 days) to rejuvenate our body.

2. Juice of fresh ginger can be taken with honey in indigestion and gas troubles.

3. In dryness of mouth and vomiting, we have to chew a thin slice of inji, a good remedy.

Ginger is also used for :

Atherosclerosis, heart disease

Chemotherapy support

Migraine headaches

Morning sickness

Motion sickness

Nausea and vomiting following surgery

Rheumatoid arthritis

Belching

Laryngitis

Vomiting

Constipation

Incontinence

Flatulence

Colic

Spasms

Fever

Eye diseases

Asthma

Colds

Cough

Basic Principles of Siddha Healthy Living

Food

· Take 2 meals a day. In the morning and in the evening.

· Take rock salt and fresh ginger before taking food. This will clear the throat and sharpen the appetite.

· When you take food, a tumbler of water should be places on the right side.
· One should not sit for taking food facing the north.

· If one passes wind when he takes food he must leave of eating. He must not take any food during the day.

· Sweet things should be taken first, salt and acid substances next; and pungent, bitter and astringent things at the end.

· Pomegranates, sugarcane and similar things should be eaten first and never at the end of dinner.
· Take hard substances in the beginning, soft things in the middle and the liquids towards the end of the meal.

· Do not run after taking a meal.

· Walking after dinner promotes life. It gives good health.

· After lunch, lie down on the left side for a short time. This helps for digestion. Surya Nadi works when you lie on the left side to ignite digestive fire.

· Immediately after taking food, it is highly injuries to bask in the sun, swim, ride or run, sing, sit by the fire side, fight, and practice physical exercise of asana, pranayama or study.

· Night meals should always be light and 3 hours before sleep.

· Do not take curd at night. Curd should never be taken without the addition of some salt.

· Food, cohabitation, sleep, studying and walking in the street should not be indulged in at sunset.

· Food, evacuation of the bowels, cohabitation, sleep, taking medicine should be done when the breath is passing through the right nostril.

Sleep

· Do not sleep with the head towards the north.

· Sleeping with head towards the south prolongs life.

· You will get wealth by keeping your head towards the west.

· You will get wisdom by keeping your head towards the east.

Sexual Health

 Sexual intercourse is prohibited for the first four days after the appearance of the menses, as well as on the 8th, 14th and 15th days of fortnights (light and dark), on the anniversary days of dead parents, in the day time, at midnight and during an eclipse.

· Morning cohabitation is injuries.

· He who has eaten heavy meals, who is hungry, thirsty, who is pressed with the calls of nature, should not indulge in sexual intercourse.

Aavaaram Poo

Benefit of Aavaaram Poo

 

Decoction, made up of Aavaaram panchangam (leaf, flower, fruit, stem bark and root bark) is highly useful for Diabetes.

Powder prepared from Aavaaram flower and Green gram is a good bath powder for skin ailments and it will improve complexion.

Fine powder of seeds to be mixed with coconut oil or gingili oil and its extract could be applied for eye disorders.

Decoction of the stem bark is a useful gargle for oral ulcers (Aphthous ulcer)

Bath oil prepared from this root is a useful remedy for all the pitha complaints and body heat because of its cooling effect.

Arugampul  -Bermuda Grass

Arugampul has interesting medicinal properties. The grass has the ability to purify blood and cure stomach ailments. Arugampul juice or powder increases hemoglobin levels and has good effects on anemic pregnant mothers. It is an excellent supplement for lactating mothers. It boosts Prolactin and so increases the quality and quantity of breast milk.

Arugampul contains more than 65% of chlorophyll . This helps in increasing the number of red blood cells in our body. It contains protein, fiber, calcium and phosphorus and potassium. It helps in maintaining the alkalinity of blood as it reduces acidity. It helps resists attacks of cold and is quick in removing phlegm.

Arugampul benefits :

The juice of this grass is applied over eyes for eye diseases.

For epistaxis, the juice of this grass is applied as nasal drops.

The juice of samoolam is applied externally over the swellings which tend to bleed. Hence the bleeding stops when applied.

The grass along with manjal or turmeric is ground and applied over skin diseases like scabies, fungal infections etc

Elumicham - Lime

Benefits of Elumicham

A very good and rich source of Citric acid, Citrate and Vitamin C. As per Siddha, it is a very good Anti-Pitha drug, a coolant, and a good carminative. Siddha Literatures also classify this herb under Kayakalpa or Kayakarpam. Regular intake makes the body healthy and rejuvenated. It also has various health benefits as discussed below.

Minerals found in Elumicham include small amounts of :

calcium - bone and teeth health.

magnesium - muscle health and preventing cramps by stabilising the nerves.

phosphorous - for cell wall, bone and teeth health - it combines with many other minerals in the body.

potassium - brain function, cell and muscle health and preventing cramps.

zinc - immune function, eye, nail and hair health, but also other organs. Zinc combines with many other vitamins and minerals in the body.

Vitamin E (skin, nails, hair, and cell health) and vitamin K (blood and bone health), plus niacin (blood and heart health) and folate (cell and DNA health) are found in small amounts, in addition to a large dose of vitamin C (immune functions).

Lime Juice : Extract of a squeezed lime :

2 teaspoons of lime juice with warm water daily in empty stomach cures constipation.

Lime juice mixed with equal quantity of honey and given empty stomach to reduce body weight.

2 teaspoons of lemon juice with 2 pinches of Black Pepper cures Diarrhea.

Massaging tooth and gums with lime juice helps to stop bleeding and eases pain.

Warm coconut oil with few drops of lime juice can massaged well in scalp regularly for dandruff and hair fall.

Lemonade : Drink prepared from Lime juice, water, sugar / salt / honey

Daily intake of Lemonade helps to cure increased Pitham, cools the body detoxifies the body, purifies blood, calms the mind. Also cures cough and respiratory problems.

Lemonade prepared with honey helps to burn fat and lose weight. It also makes our skin glow.

Lemonade acts as a Diuretic and flushes out all the toxins in our body in adding 1 teaspoon of ginger juice and 2 pinches of jeera powder to a glass of lemonade aids digestion after a heavy meal.

Inhibits Urinary calculi or Kidney stones as it contains highest amount ofCitrate.

Basic Esoteric Daily Practices

Appropriate patterning, or ritual conduct, is the foundation of a healthy life. Esoteric Daily Practices promotes healthy organization of the energy channels and the seating of the prana, or internal winds. You may want to fine-tune this practice for your constitution. In order to do that, consult a beginning book about Siddha Practice, the Esoteric science ( Tantric life science ).


This version of practices has been shortened and simplified.  If you are being advised by a Siddha doctor, or you have a Guru from wisdom tradition, that person will give you more detailed instructions based on your constitution and sadhana.

 
Remember that Esoteric Daily Practices is ritual. Try to directly experience the rhythm you are establishing in your life. As you are practicing Esoteric Morning Practices feel that you are honoring your self, your body and God by participating in this daily ritual.

Morning
Wake up by atleast 5AM to 6 AM.  If you can’t manage this at first, work your way into it. You can train yourself to wake up at this time naturally.


The Sun activates the pineal gland to send messages to the adrenal glands to release adrenal cortisol, which wakes us from deep sleep.


Before opening your eyes or getting out of bed, sense the energy of the day.
Rub your palms together quickly to generate energy and look at your palm for your palm to absorb the over night stored prana energy from your eyes, then gently energize your face, head, arms and hands with long, smooth strokes. Repeat this sequence until you have gently massaged your entire body, including your feet.


Check through your nostril(dominant)
Step out of the bed, touch the ground with the leg dominant side.
Evacuate your bowels. You can train yourself to do this at this time.
If your digestion is normally sluggish, drink a glass of warm water (fresh ginger, optional).
Wash your hands, and splash cold water on your face. Scrape your tongue with scraping tool available at pharmacy or yoga studio (dont use plastic one). Brush your teeth with mild, natural toothpaste and a soft toothbrush (if can with twigs like neem twigs etc.).


Take a slow walk in the fresh morning air for 30 to 45 minutes.
In the bathroom, dry brush your whole body. Use a natural bristle brush. Vata types should be particularly careful to stroke downward and without too much force. Pitta types should also use strokes that are less intense. Kapha types can use more vigorous back-and-forth strokes.


Perform Oil Bath—self-massage with gently warmed coconut oil + sesam oil + mustard oil / olive. Spend 30 to 45 minutes massaging the oil into your skin with long strokes, including ears, face and neck. A drizzle of warm oil may be poured on the crown of your head if you are planning to wash your hair. If your constitution is mainly kapha, you should perform oil bath only one to two times per week. You may want to use one of the massage oils formulated specifically for a kapha constitution. If you are experiencing high vata or pitta, you may want to use sesame oil or coconut oil respectively. Massage your body with oil only on lunar days (Monday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday)
Take a shower. Use Shiyakai or natural soap. Pad yourself dry.
For normal cold bath pour water from top to toe while humming
Eat breakfast. Follow the natural dietary instructions for your constitution..

Evening
Shower after work if the day has been stressful, or especially hot or humid. A bucket shower is great at night. The sheets of warm water from the bucket are much more relaxing than a typical shower.
Eat dinner no later than 7 pm or 3 hours before you go to sleep (fruits or light meal like chapati). Follow the dietary guidelines for your constitution.


Go for a slow walk daily for 30 to 45 minutes if you missed in the morning.
Stop watching TV, using the computer or reading at least an hour before bed (9pm). Instead, spend some quiet time with your loved ones. Or sit quietly, linking up with your Guru or simply the larger cosmos and a sense of grace. You can also do Pranayama and Meditation.

Go to sleep by 10 pm to 11 pm, before you become exhausted, or even very sleepy because the oxygen level during this time will become lower to make you sleepy. Try to fall asleep with God, Guru or positive thought in your heart.

Benefits of Karuva pillai - Curry Leaf

Herbal benefits of Karuva pillai 

Curry leaf tree is a small unarmed tree, which has highly aromatic leaves. It has a dark grey bark and closely crowded spreading dark green foliage. It grows up to 4-6 m tall, with a trunk up to 40 cm diameter. The leaves are impari-pinnate, alternately arranged, obliquely ovate or somewhat rhomboid with 11-21 leaflets, each leaflet 2-4 cm long and 1-2 cm broad

The leaf is used in South India as a natural flavouring agent in various curries. The leaves are said to have properties that would bring value as an anti-diabetic, anti-oxidant, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, anti-hypercholesterolemic etc. Preparations of Curry leaves are also useful in hyperdipsia, burning sensation, pruritis, in many skin diseases, and also in suppurating ulcers.The Kruva pillai leaves has vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin B2, vitamin C, calcium and iron in plenty. This is an ideal herb for people suffering from the ill effects of diabetes. Diabetes patients often suffer from frequent vertigo. There may be aches and pains in the upper and lower limbs coupled with impaired vision. These patients should take curry leaves at frequent intervals to overcome these problems. Kashayam made of curry leaves dried in shade and powdered is a very potent remedy that helps stabilize glucose levels in a diabetic patient.

1. For Bloated abdomen and nausea (feeling to vomit) : Take 5 to 6 Curry leaves, chop and crush them well. Mix well in a glass of butter milk and take whenever needed.

Daily intake will reduce burning sensation of body, heartburn, indigestion, tiredness and exhaustion.

2. For morning sikness : Prepare lemonade with honey. Mix half teaspoon of Curry leaf juice in it and drink.

3. For High Cholesterol : Take 5 to 6 curry le...aves, grind it well with 3 to 4 cloves of garlic and make it into a small pill. Take this empty stomach or with breakfast or dinner.

4. Using Curry leaves in daily diet will help you get rid of increased Cholesterol and over weight.

5. To reduce weight 8 to 10 leaves can be taken daily with food or drink. If the taste is not an issue. it can be taken fresh.

6. Oil prepared from Curry leaves is a good stimulant for hair growth and prevents greying of hair.

7. Daily intake prevents cancer as it inhibits the growth of cancerous cells.

8. Eating 5 to 6 fresh leaves daily improves eyesight.

9. Half to One teaspoon of dry leaf powder can be taken once or twice to increase Haemoglobin level, promote hair growth.

10. Taking Curry leaves daily makes the skin glowing and beautiful.

Suggestions:

 Use curry leaves powder as a substitute for fresh curry leaves in curries and fries

Miracle Herbs in Kitchen

COLDS

Mix a gram of cinnamon powder(kari paddai thulu) with a teaspoon of honey to cure cold. Prepare a cup of tea to which you should add ginger, clove, bay leaf and black pepper.. This should be consumed twice a day. Reduce the intake as the cold disappears.

GINGER FOR COLDS.

Ginger ((inji / halia) tea is very good to cure cold. Preparation of tea: cut ginger into small pieces and boil it with water, boil it a few times and then add sugar to sweeten and milk to taste, and drink it hot.

DRY COUGHS.

Add a gram of turmeric (manjal / kunyit) powder to a teaspoon of honey for curing dry cough. Also chew a cardamom for a long time.

BLOCKED NOSE.

For blocked nose or to relieve congestion, take a table spoon of crushed carom seeds (omam / ) and tie it in a cloth and inhale it.

SORE THROAT.

Add a tea spoon of cumin seeds (jiragam / jintan) and a few small pieces of dry ginger to a glass of boiling water. Simmer it for a few minutes, and then let it cool. Drink it twice daily. This will cure cold as well as sore throat.

AJWAIN/AJMO FOR ASTHMA.

Boil carom seeds (omam /   in water and inhale the steam.

CURE FOR BACKACHE.

Rub ginger (inji / halia) paste on the backache to get relief.

GARLIC FOR HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE.

Have 1-2 pod garlic (pundu / bawang putih) first thing in the morning with water

HONEY AND GINGER FOR HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE.

Mix 1 table spoon honey (then / madu) and 1 table spoon ginger (inji / halia) juice, 1 table spoon of crushed cumin seeds (jiragam / jintan), and have it twice daily.

MIGRAINE. .

For the cure of migraine or acute cold in the head; boil a tablespoon of pepper powder (melegu / lada hitam), and a pinch of turmeric (manjal / kunyit) in a cup of milk, and have it daily for a few couple of days.

BITTER GOURD IS GOOD.

A tablespoon of amla (Nellikkaai / ) juice mixed with a cup of fresh bitter gourd (karela) juice and taken daily for 2 months reduces blood sugar.

TURMERIC/ ARAD CURE FOR INJURIES

For any cut or wound, apply turmeric (manjal / kunyit) powder to the injured portion to stop the bleeding. It also works as an antiseptic. You can tie a bandage after applying manjal/turmeric.

CRAMPS

You must do a self-massage using mustard (kadugu / ) oil every morning. Just take a little oil between your palms and rub it all over your body. Then take a shower. This is especially beneficial during winter. You could also mix a little mustard powder with water to make a paste and apply this on your palms and soles of your feet.

HEADACHES.

If you have a regular migraine problem, include five almonds (badam / ) along with hot milk in your daily diet. You could also have a gram of black pepper (melegu / lada hitam) along with honey or milk, twice or thrice a day. Make an almond paste by rubbing wet almonds against a stone.This can be applied to forehead.

Eat an apple with a little salt on an empty stomach everyday and see its wonderful effects. OR When headache is caused by cold winds, cinnamon works best in curing headache. Make a paste of cinnamon by mixing in water and apply it all over your forehead.

TURMERIC

FOR ARTHRITIS.

Turmeric (manjal / kunyit) can be used in treating arthritis due to its anti-inflammatory property. Turmeric can be taken as a drink other than adding to dishes to help prevent all problems. Use one teaspoon of turmeric powder per cup of warm milk every day. It is also used as a paste for local action.

HICCUPS

Take a warm slice of lemon and sprinkle salt, sugar and black pepper on it.. The lemon should be eaten until the hiccups stop.

Kumari - Aloevera

The Kumari miracle: A natural medicine for cancer, cholesterol, diabetes, inflammation and other health conditions

Kumari means “ A virgin girl or ever living”. In Siddha this plant has been extensively used for its properties, of being a quencher of over pitta, high body heat, heat due to spiritual practices, detoxifier, kayakalpa and for problems arising due to mercury poisoning.

The flesh like gel part of the plant is to be used and is very effective for internal as well as external applications. Siddha texts have describe its use in Kayakalpa formulations.
 It is bitter, cooling, purgative, alteratve, fattening, tonic, aphrodisiac, anthelminthic and alexiteric. It is useful in eye-disease, tumors, spleen enlargement, lever complaints, vomiting, bronchitis, skin diseases, biliousness, asthma, jaundice and ulcers.

 Its is very good for the acne treatment. Aloe Vera’s anti-inflammatory properties soothe and reduces swelling and redness surrounding the affected region making your acne less visible. The Aloe Vera then moisturizes the skin helping to maintain skins natural pH balance.

Benefits of Kumari :
• Halts the growth of cancer tumors.
• Lowers high cholesterol.
• Repairs "sludge blood" and reverses "sticky blood".
• Boosts the oxygenation of your blood.
• Eases inflammation and soothes arthritis pain.
• Protects the body from oxidative stress.

• Prevents kidney stones and protects the body from oxalates in coffee and tea.
• Alkalizes the body, helping to balance overly acidic dietary habits.
• Cures ulcers, IBS, Crohn's disease and other digestive disorders.
• Reduces high blood pressure natural, by treating the cause, not just the symptoms.
• Nourishes the body with minerals, vitamins, enzymes and glyconutrients.
• Accelerates healing from physical burns and radiation burns.
• Replaces dozens of first aid products, makes bandages and antibacterial sprays obsolete.
• Halts colon cancer, heals the intestines and lubricates the digestive tract.
• Ends constipation.
• Stabilizes blood sugar and reduces triglycerides in diabetics.
• Prevents and treats candida infections.
• Protects the kidneys from disease.
• Functions as nature's own "sports drink" for electrolyte balance, making common sports drinks obsolete.
• Boosts cardiovascular performance and physical endurance.
• Speeds recovery from injury or physical exertion.
• Hydrates the skin, accelerates skin repair.

Kumari juice is a gret natural aid to detox. Drinking aloe vera juice provides a fantastically rich cocktail of vitamins, minerals and trace elements to help our bodies deal with these stresses and strains every day.

Application

Cleaning: The gel part is carefully excised out without any outer green part contaminating it. This gel is then washed seven times in water. The resulting gel is then used for external and internal applications.

Uses

- The resultant oozing juice is an effective remedy for eye diseases.

- It is a very effective coolant and hence leghyam and oil can be prepared with this is an excellent remedy to remove Pitta or Internal heat from the body.

- Aloe gel is boiled to proper consistency with gingely oil and this oil is used for head bath to get good sleep.

- Hair oil prepared with Aloe reduces ailments like headache and hair fall.

- Gel can be directly applied on to burns to enhance healing.

A banana a day keeps the doctor away!

Miracles of Banana Fruit 

BANANAS – Some Interesting Facts

Never put your banana in the refrigerator!!! This is interesting. After reading this, you’ll never look at a banana in the same way again.

Bananas contain three natural sugars – sucrose, fructose and glucose combined with fiber.

A banana gives an instant, sustained and substantial boost of energy. Research has proven that just two bananas provide enough energy for a strenuous 90-minute workout. No wonder the banana is the number one fruit with the world’s leading athletes.

But energy isn’t the only way a banana can help us keep fit. It can also help overcome or prevent a substantial number of illnesses and conditions, making it a must to add to our daily diet.

Depression: According to a recent survey undertaken by MIND amongst people suffering from depression, many felt much better after eating a banana. This is because bananas contain tryptophan, a type of protein that the body converts into serotonin, known to make you relax, improve your mood and generally make you feel happier.

PMS: Forget the pills – eat a banana. The vitamin B6 it contains regulates blood glucose levels, which can affect your mood.

Anemia: High in iron, bananas can stimulate the production of hemoglobin in the blood and so helps in cases of anemia.

Blood Pressure: This unique tropical fruit is extremely high in potassium yet low in salt, making it perfect to beat blood pressure. So much so, the US Food and Drug Administration has just allowed the banana industry to make official claims for the fruit’s ability to reduce the risk of blood pressure and stroke.

Brain Power: 200 students at a Twickenham (Middlesex) school were helped through their exams this year by eating bananas at breakfast, break, and lunch in a bid to boost their brain power. Research has shown that the potassium-packed fruit can assist learning by making pupils more alert.

Constipation: High in fiber, including bananas in the diet can help restore normal bowel action, helping to overcome the problem without resorting to laxatives.

Hangovers: One of the quickest ways of curing a hangover is to make a banana milkshake, sweetened with honey. The banana calms the stomach and, with the help of the honey, builds up depleted blood sugar levels, while the milk soothes and re-hydrates your system.

Heartburn: Bananas have a natural antacid effect in the body, so if you suffer from heartburn, try eating a banana for soothing relief.

Morning Sickness: Snacking on bananas between meals helps to keep blood sugar levels up and avoid morning sickness.

Mosquito bites: Before reaching for the insect bite cream, try rubbing the affected area with the inside of a banana skin. Many people find it amazingly successful at reducing swelling and irritation.

Nerves: Bananas are high in B vitamins that help calm the nervous system.

Overweight and at work? Studies at the Institute of Psychology in Austria found pressure at work leads to gorging on comfort food like chocolate and chips. Looking at 5,000 hospital patients, researchers found the most obese were more likely to be in high-pressure jobs. The report concluded that, to avoid panic-induced food cravings, we need to control our blood sugar levels by snacking on high carbohydrate foods every two hours to keep levels steady.

Ulcers: The banana is used as the dietary food against intestinal disorders because of its soft texture and smoothness. It is the only raw fruit that can be eaten without distress in over-chronicler cases. It also neutralizes over-acidity and reduces irritation by coating the lining of the stomach.

Temperature control: Many other cultures see bananas as a “cooling” fruit that can lower both the physical and emotional temperature of expectant mothers. In

Thailand, for example, pregnant women eat bananas to ensure their baby is born with a cool temperature.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Bananas can help SAD sufferers because they contain the natural mood enhancer tryptophan.

Smoking &Tobacco Use: Bananas can also help people trying to give up smoking. The B6, B12 they contain, as well as the potassium and magnesium found in them, help the body recover from the effects of nicotine withdrawal.

Stress: Potassium is a vital mineral, which helps normalize the heartbeat, sends oxygen to the brain and regulates your body’s water balance. When we are stressed, our metabolic rate rises, thereby reducing our potassium levels. These can be rebalanced with the help of a high-potassium banana snack.

Strokes: According to research in The New England Journal of Medicine, eating bananas as part of a regular diet can cut the risk of death by strokes by as much as 40%!

Warts: Those keen on natural alternatives swear that if you want to kill off a wart, take a piece of banana skin and place it on the wart, with the yellow side out. Carefully hold the skin in place with a plaster or surgical tape!

So, a banana really is a natural remedy for many ills. When you compare it to an apple, it has four times the protein, twice the carbohydrates, three times the phosphorus, five times the vitamin A and iron, and twice the other vitamins and minerals. It is also rich in potassium and is one of the best value foods around. So maybe its time to change that well-known phrase so that we say, “A banana a day keeps the doctor away!

Venthayam - Fenugreek

The Benefits of Venthayam - Fenugreek

Venthayam has abundance of chlorophyll, protein and iron in its leaves, which helps to gain strength and increase blood count. Venthayam is basic by nature which reduces acidity of blood and controls it. Generally venthayam is very well known as pain reliever, especially reliever of arthritic pains, rheumatic pains and joint pains, but it has many more qualities and powers to heal many diseases such as fever, vomiting, cough, gout, piles, low blood pressure etc. No wonder there are execelent home remedies using venthayam seeds in the Siddha system of medicine.

Other benefits of Venthayam :

- Fenugreek stops diarrhea, cures bad breath, soothes itching, cools the eyes, arrests hair fall, cures inflammation, cures cough, cures ulcers… the list goes on.

- Fenugreek is used as a digestive aid. Nursing mothers use fenugreek remedies to increase inadequate breast milk supply. Some studies have shown that fenugreek is a stimulator of breast milk production and it can increase milk production three to four times.

 - It is also helpful for treating diabetes and lowering cholesterol as it helps in reducing blood sugar levels.

- Fenugreek also helps in maintaining a good metabolism and prevents constipation.

- It purifies blood and helps in flushing out the harmful toxins.

- The simple home remedy to reduce blood pressure is Venthayam seeds.

- Fenugreek consumption helps bolster iron levels in pregnant women.

- Since fenugreek contains a substance called diogenin which is a compound that has properties similar to estrogen, it has been found to help increase libido. It is found to increase libido and male potency.

- Fenugreek is also known from ancient days for its treatment of reproductive disorders. It has been used to induce labor, to treat hormonal disorders, to help with breast enlargement, and to reduce menstrual pain.

- Fenugreek relieves hyper acidity and burning sensation in the stomach. Just chew some seeds with a little amount of cumin and you will feel the relief immediately. Fenugreek is rich in fiber content and is very good for solving stomach disorders.

- Fenugreek serves as a natural cosmetic. It prevents dandruff and strengthens hair. Application of fenugreek powder has been established as a remedy for preventing hair loss. This application on the hair makes it shiny and black.

How to Use  :

Take a spoonful of the fenugreek powder with a tumler of warm water in the morning an hour before breakfast. Adapt the same procedure in the afternoon and night.

Vepalai - Neem

Vepalai - Neem

 Vepalai tree is commonly known as margosa tree in Englis language. It is part of every Indian home due to its great application and hence is considered as a place of worship.  Neem act as anti bacterial, anti parasitic, anti fungal, anti protozoal and anti viral thus helps in protection from all the microorganisms, which are always ready to invade in our body causing serious ailments.

Vepalai medicinal uses :

The leaf juice in the dose of 10-20 ml is administered along with equal amount of honey three times a day for jaundice, intestinal worms etc.

Neem oil along with equal amount of castor oil is given early morning in empty stomach to remove the intestinal worms.

The leaves of this plant along with turmeric is ground together and applied over the areas of insect bite, sori (a skin disease), sirangu (scabies), fungal infection, karappan (eczema).

The decoction prepared from leaves and bark is used to clean the ulcers and skin diseases.

The leaf paste is applied over the burns.

The decoction prepared from the flowers is helpful in treating Gunmam or abdominal disorders.

The fruit is dried and the seeds are removed, this is then powdered and given in the dose of 1-10 grams two times a day for periodic fever.

The oil prepared from neem is an anti-septic and applied externally for ulcers, ezcema and sirangu etc.

Neem oil is also used over herpes infection, keelvayu or arthritis and kandamalai (cervical lymphadenitis).

The leaves are used as a bed for the patients suffering from pox infection.

 The twigs of neem are used as an ancient brush for teeth according to Siddha literature the constant use of this will relieve tooth ache, halitosis or bad odour from mouth etc.

Tender leaves of neem is an excellent medicine for diabetic patients.

The neem oil, 5-6 drops is given along with milk in diabetes.