The Siddha System of Medicine (SSM) is one of the ancient medical systems, providing preventive, promotive, curative, rejuvenating and rehabilitative care by adopting scientific and holistic approaches. This system is an integral part of Ayush (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sowa-Rigpa and Homeopathy) and is widely practiced in India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Singapore, Mauritius and some of the South-East Asian Countries.

Siddha is a traditional Indian system of medicine rooted in the teachings of the ancient seers known as "Siddhars", the ancient sages known for their deep intellect and spiritual insights. The term Siddha originates from the Tamil word "Citti", signifying complete knowledge or accomplishment. This system encompasses four key areas namely Vaatham (Alchemy - Conversion of base or noble things), Vaidhyam (Practice of Medicine), Yogam (Integration of mind, body and soul through the Eight-Fold Practices known as Attanga Yogam) and Gnanam (Wisdom or Enlightenment).

The doctrine of Siddha medicine is based on the 96 Thathuvangal (Fundamental Principles), which includes the concept of Pancha Boothangal (Five Basic Elements) Mukkutram, (Three Humors namely Vali, Azhal, and Iyyam), Udal Thadhukkal (Seven Physical Constituents) etc., which regulates physical, physiological, psychological and intellectual aspects of every human being.

The Siddha Pharmacopoeia is extensive, encompassing a wide range of medicinal preparations derived from herbals, metals. minerals and animal by-products. Siddha medicines are broadly classified into 32 types of Ul Marundugal (Internal Medicines) and 32 types of Pura Marundhugal (External Medicines). Certain special therapies such as Varmam (Pressure Manipulation Therapy), Thokkanam (Physical Manipulation Therapy), Odivu Murivu Maruthuvam (Bone Setting) and Kudori Maruthuvam (Parenteral Administration) showcases the distinctiveness and exclusive identity of SSM.

Siddha diagnostic techniques incorporate methods such as Envagai Thervu (Eightfold examination), Manikkadai Nool (Wrist Circumference Measurement Tool), Pancha Patchi Sasthiram (Five bird theory) & Jodhidam (Astrology) to assess imbalances in the body's humors. Among the Eight-fold Examinations, Naadi (Pulse), Neerkuri (Physical Characteristics of Urine) and Neikuri (Oil on Urine sign) are not only significant in arriving at diagnosis but also to ascertain the prognosis of the disease.

Besides curative treatments, Siddha medicine emphasizes preventive care and rejuvenation. Kayakarpam, a unique rejuvenation therapy, promotes longevity and vitality by detoxifying the body and strengthening the defence mechanisms. As key components of Kayakarpam, Siddhar Yogam and Pranayamam (Breathing techniques) stabilize the mind, body and soul, thereby enhancing the life span.

The Central Council for Research in Siddha (CCRS) plays a pivotal role in advancing Siddha medicine through scientific validation. This organisation is established to promote, co-ordinate and conduct research in SSM, focusing on Drug Research, Literary Research, Preclinical, Clinical studies and many more.