One of the ways Siddha medicine distinguishes itself from Ayurveda is through its use of metals and minerals in the making of medicines. The basic concept of Siddha is similar to Ayurveda, although the differences begin to show when studied in detail, as the Siddha branch of medicine has its uniqueness and tradition rooted in Tamil or Dravidian philosophy and culture. The food we consume is the fuel for the human body which is processed by the three humours, and when this equilibrium isn't maintained by the body, there is illness. The Siddha system of medicine sees the individual as a microcosm of the universe, which is made up of the five natural elements: earth, fire, air, water and space and three humours: vatham (movement), pitham (digestion or metabolism) and kapham. Since 2019, the AYUSH ministry has also been opening Siddha clinics in major hospitals, like Safdarjung Hospital in New Delhi. In 2018, the Ministry of AYUSH declared 4 January-also the birthday of the revered Agastya-as Siddha Day. The practice of Siddha medicine today falls under the Ministry of Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy (AYUSH). But the practice of the Siddha system of medicine is more prominent in the southern part of India-mostly in Tamil Nadu and Kerala. In modern times, Ayurveda continues to be practised throughout the country. Agastya is among the 18 Siddhars or scholars who are thought to have gained mastery over medicine, yoga and meditation.Īgastya is also known as the Hippocrates of Siddha medicine-Hippocrates was the Greek physician regarded as the father of modern medicine. While Dhanvantari-the Hindu god of medicine-is credited as the founding father of Ayurveda, Agastya (also known as Agastiyar) is believed to be the founder of Siddha medicine. Siddha in Tamil means an ascetic who has achieved enlightenment. The practice is thought to be even older than Ayurveda, though some of the tenets-like using herbs to treat ailments-are common to both of them. The Siddha system of medicine is an ancient practice that is believed to have originated between the 3rd and 10th century BC, in Tamil Nadu.