Ayurveda Unani and Siddha – Similarities and Differences

Ayurveda, Unani and Siddha are three of the most ancient systems of medicine in the world, that have been practiced in Indian subcontinent for centuries. Each of these systems has its own unique philosophy, principles, and practices, as well as similarities and differences. In this article, we will explore the similarities and differences between Ayurveda, Unani, and Siddha, with a focus on their history, philosophy, principles, practices and effectiveness.

Fundamental differences among Ayurveda, Unani and Siddha in terms of:

History

Ayurveda is the oldest known system of medicine, dating back over 5,000 years. It is believed to have originated in India and has been passed down through generations of sages and physicians. The word Ayurveda comes from the Sanskrit words ‘Ayu‘, meaning ‘life’, and ‘Veda‘, meaning ‘knowledge’ or ‘science’. Sage Sushruta, the writer of ‘sushruta samhita’ is known as father of surgery in the world. Ayurveda is considered to be derived from four Vedas (the oldest scriptures)- Rigveda, Yajurveda, Samaveda, Atharvaveda. Sometimes, Ayurveda is called as fifth Veda.

Unani medicine, also known as Greece-Arabic medicine, is a system of medicine that originated in Greece and was later developed by Arab physicians. Unani medicine is based on the philosophy of the ancient Greek physician Hippocrates, who believed that the body has the power to heal itself. The word Unani comes from the Arabic word ‘Unan’, meaning ‘Greece’. Unani medicine was introduced to India during the Mughal era and has since been practiced in India, Pakistan, and other parts of the world.

Siddha medicine is an ancient system of medicine that originated in South India. Evidences of Siddha medicine practice have been found in Indus valley civilisation as well. The word Siddha comes from the Tamil word ‘Siddhi’, meaning ‘achievement’ or ‘perfection’. The knowledge of Siddha medicine was passed down through generations of ‘Siddhars‘ (enlightened beings) like Thiruvalluvar and Agathiyar.

Philosophy

Ayurveda, Unani, and Siddha have different philosophies and worldviews.

Ayurveda believes that every individual is unique and has a specific constitution, known as ‘Prakriti’ (body type). practices. Ayurveda also believes in the interconnectedness of all things and sees health as a state of harmony between the individual and the environment. Staying connected with nature ensures the balance of doshas in our prakriti.

Unani medicine is based on the philosophy of the ancient Greek physician Hippocrates, who believed that the body has the power to heal itself. Unani medicine also incorporates the principles of the ancient Greek philosopher Galen and the Islamic physician Avicenna. Unani medicine believes in the humoral theory, which states that the body is composed of four humors or fluids: blood, phlegm, yellow bile, and black bile. Unani medicine aims to restore balance to these humors to achieve optimal health.

Siddha medicine is based on the philosophy of Siddhars, who were ancient Indian sages and seers. Siddha medicine believes that the human body is a microcosm of the universe and is governed by the three doshas: Vatha, Pitha, and Kapha. Siddha medicine aims to balance these doshas to achieve optimal health.

Principles

Ayurveda believes that health and wellness depend on a delicate balance between the mind, body, and spirit. According to Ayurveda, every individual is unique, and therefore, the treatment plan should be tailored to each person’s specific needs. Ayurveda also recognizes the importance of the six tastes: sweet, sour, salty, bitter, pungent, and astringent, and recommends a balanced diet that includes all six tastes.

Unani medicine is based on the concept of the four humors – blood, phlegm, yellow bile, and black bile. The human body is considered to be made up of seven components – arkan (elements), mizaj (temperament or mood), akhlat (bodily humours), aaza (organs and systems), arwah (vital spirit), quwa (faculties or powers) and afaal (functions). Unani medicine uses natural substances such as herbs, minerals, and animal products to treat illnesses.

Siddha medicine is based on the concept of the three doshas – vata, pitta, and kapha. According to Siddha, the human body is made up of five elements – earth, water, fire, air, and space. The doshas are believed to control different bodily functions and have specific qualities associated with them. For example, Vata is associated with air and ether elements and governs movement and nervous system functions, while Pitta is associated with fire and governs digestion and metabolism, and Kapha is associated with earth and water elements and governs stability and immunity.

Practices

Ayurveda is widely practiced in India and is recognized as a system of medicine by the government. There are several Ayurvedic hospitals, clinics, and educational institutions across India. In Nepal and Sri Lanka, Ayurveda is recognized as a form of traditional medicine. In USA, Canada, Australia & European countries, Ayurveda is gaining popularity as a complementary and alternative therapy. There are several Ayurvedic clinics and wellness centers across these countries.

Unani medicine is mainly practiced in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, UAE, Indonesia, Malaysia and other parts of South Asia and the Middle East. In Iran, Unani medicine is known as ‘Yunani’ and is recognised as a form of traditional medicine by the government.

Siddha medicine is practiced widely in South Indian states like Tamilnadu, Kerala, Maharashtra and Karnataka. Outside of India, Siddha medicine is practiced in Sri Lanka and Malaysia as a form of traditional medicine. In Singapore, Siddha treatments are used as alternative or complementary therapy.

Effectiveness

There is limited scientific evidence to compare the effectiveness of these three systems. However, Ayurveda and Siddha have been found to be effective in managing various chronic conditions, mental disorders and lifestyle related diseases. Unani medicine has been found to be effective in treating various infectious diseases and psychosomatic disorders.

Summary of similarities and differences:

The similarities and differences among Ayurveda Unani and Siddha systems of medicine can be summarised in following ways:-

Similarities

• All three systems of medicine have their roots in ancient Indian medicine
• All three are based on a holistic approach to health and wellbeing.
• They all recognize the importance of mental and emotional wellbeing in overall health.
• Ayurveda, Unani, and Siddha all view health as a state of balance between the body, mind, and spirit.
• They all use a holistic approach to diagnose and treat illnesses.
• All three systems of medicine are based on natural principles and emphasize the use of herbs and other natural substances to promote health.
• They all recognize the importance of diet and lifestyle in maintaining health and preventing disease.
• They all use a holistic approach to healing, taking into account the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of the patient.
• They all believe in the importance of balance and harmony in the body.
• All three systems of medicine focus on prevention rather than just treating the symptoms of an illness. They believe that it is better to prevent an illness from occurring than to treat it once it has already manifested.

Differences

• Origin: Ayurveda and Siddha originated in India, while Unani originated in Greece and was later developed by Islamic scholars.
• Philosophy: While Ayurveda and Siddha are based on the concept of five elements – earth, water, fire, air, and ether; and three doshas- Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, Unani is based on the concept of four humours-blood, phlegm, yellow bile, and black bile.
• Diagnostic methods: Ayurveda uses ‘naadi’ (pulse), ‘mala’ (stool), ‘mutra‘ (urine), ‘jihwa’ (tongue), ‘shabda‘ (voice), ‘drik‘ (vision), ‘sparsh’ (touch), ‘akriti’ ( general body appearance). Unani relies on ‘nabj’ pulse diagnosis and observation of the patient’s ‘mijaj’ (temperament) . Siddha medicine uses pulse diagnosis and observation of the patient’s body type and behavior.
• Treatment approaches: Ayurveda emphasizes lifestyle changes, diet, herbal remedies, ‘panchakarma‘ detoxification to prevent & treat illnesses. Unani uses herbal remedies, ‘hammam‘ (Turkish bath), massage, ‘hijama’ (cupping). Siddha medicine uses herbal remedies, yoga and meditation to prevent & treat illnesses.
• Medicinal herbs: Ayurveda and Unani share many similar medicinal herbs, while Siddha medicine has a unique set of herbs that are native to South India.
• Practitioners: Ayurvedic practitioners are known as ‘Vaidyas’ or Ayurvedic doctors, while Unani practitioners are called ‘Hakims‘ or Unani doctors. Siddha medicine is practiced by Siddha doctors.

In conclusion, Ayurveda, Unani, and Siddha share some common principles and practices, but they also have some differences in their approach to diagnosis and treatment. Each system has its own unique strengths and weaknesses and is suited to different individuals and health conditions. The effectiveness of these three systems may vary depending on the specific condition being treated. It is important to consult with a qualified practitioner of these systems before starting any treatment.