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Unveiling the mystique of Kulisam (Amulet) with scientific insight

August 2024
Journal of Research in Siddha Medicine 7(1):1-11

DOI:10.4103/jrsm.jrsm_1_24

Authors:

Kayathri Ramasamy

Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University

Sarojini Ulaganathan

Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University

Background Kulisam is an unexplored therapy of Siddha paediatrics. In which an amulet is prepared with medicinal herbs, metals and some animal product. Most of the herbal ingredients of Kulisam contain essential oils. It enters the body through the skin inhalation and ingestion routes, it gets mixed with the circulation and cures the specified diseases thus acting as a therapeutic agent. Materials and Methods The data were obtained from Siddha classics such as, TV Sambasivam Pillai dictionary, Kuzhandhai maruthuvam , Vaazhai vagadam and various research articles searched in Pubmed, Google Scholar and Science Direct through specific keywords. Result and Discussion The herbal and metal amulets used in Siddha pediatrics have been explored with the help of science. Therefore, Kulisam can act as a potent therapeutic, pharmaceutical and, nutraceutical tool for Siddha paediatrics. For a long period of time the unique therapy of Siddha system of medicine – Kulisamaadal has been alienated due to the unexplored science base behind it and a lack of research in this aspect, it's left as an unexplored treasure. Having a significant scientific base behind further research on this aspect will take Siddha pediatrics to the next level. Conclusion Kulisam is a therapeutic tool of Siddha paediatrics. Being an unexplored therapy of the Siddha system, it is essential to conduct further studies and research on this aspect.

Types of kulisam

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How to cite this article: Ramasamy K, Ulaganathan S, Sengottaiyan GD.

Unveiling the mystique of Kulisam (Amulet) with scientic insight. J Res

Siddha Med 2024;7:1-11.

Unveiling the mystique of Kulisam (Amulet) with scientic

insight

Kayathri Ramasamy1, Sarojini Ulaganathan1, Geetha Devi Sengottaiyan2

1Department of Kuzhanthai Maruthuvam/Department of Paediatrics, Government Siddha Medical College and Hospital, Palayamkoai,

Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, India, 2Paediatric Department, Government Siddha Medical College and Hospital, Palayamkoai, Tirunelveli,

Tamil Nadu, India

Abstract Background: Kulisam is an unexplored therapy of Siddha paediatrics. In which an amulet is prepared with medicinal

herbs, metals and some animal product. Most of the herbal ingredients of Kulisam contain essential oils. It enters

the body through the skin inhalation and ingestion routes, it gets mixed with the circulation and cures the specified

diseases thus acting as a therapeutic agent.

Materials and Methods: The data were obtained from Siddha classics such as, TV Sambasivam Pillai dictionary,

Kuzhandhai maruthuvam, Vaazhai vagadam and various research articles searched in Pubmed, Google Scholar

and Science Direct through specific keywords.

Result and Discussion: The herbal and metal amulets used in Siddha pediatrics have been explored with

the help of science. Therefore, Kulisam can act as a potent therapeutic, pharmaceutical and, nutraceutical

tool for Siddha paediatrics. For a long period of time the unique therapy of Siddha system of medicine –

Kulisamaadal has been alienated due to the unexplored science base behind it and a lack of research in this

aspect, it's left as an unexplored treasure. Having a significant scientific base behind further research on

this aspect will take Siddha pediatrics to the next level.

Conclusion: Kulisam is a therapeutic tool of Siddha paediatrics. Being an unexplored therapy of the Siddha

system, it is essential to conduct further studies and research on this aspect.

Keywords: Copper metabolism, essential oils, Kulisam, Siddha—pediatrics, therapeutic tool

Address for correspondence: Dr. Kayathri Ramasamy, Government Siddha Medical College and Hospital, Palayamkoai, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu - 627 002,

India.

E-mail: kayathriramasamy05@gmail.com

Submied: 12-Jan-2024, Revised: 06-May-2024, Accepted: 01-Jun-2024, Published: 30-Aug-2024

INTRODUCTION

Kulisamaadal- An unexplored therapy of the Siddha

system.[1] According to T. V. Sambasivam Pillai’s dictionary,

Kulisamaadal is deﬁned as tying an amulet with a thread

around the neck or the arm or the hip or the foot.[2] All

over the world, there is a tradition of tying an amulet for

curing culture-bound syndromes.[3] In Siddha pediatrics,

Kulisam is mentioned as a therapeutic tool. It has probable

and potential scientiﬁc mechanisms behind it. This article

is an attempt to discuss it in order to unveil it.

Types of Kulisam

There are three types of Kulisam mentioned in the Siddha

classic- Balavagadam.[1]

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Ramasamy, et al.: Unveiling the mystique of Kulisam (Amulet) with scientiﬁc insight

2 Journal of Research in Siddha Medicine | Volume 7 | Issue 1 | January-June 2024

They are:

• Herbal Kulisam

• Metal Kulisam

• Animal product Kulisam, which is illustrated in the

following [Figure 1].

Herbal Kulisam

Herbal Kulisams are made up of single herb or multi-herbal

combinations prepared with various methods such as

• Using cloth,

• Five colored threads,

• Undergoing various rituals like chanting and Yantra

drawing. The eects of chanting on plant growth have

been studied and the increased parameters have been

reported after conducting various experiments on plants

by C.R. Karnic.[4] There is a probability that plants show

a positive response to this type of sound wave.

The root part of the herbs is most commonly used for

making herbal Kulisams. Most of the herbal ingredients of

Kulisam contain essential oils. The chemical composition

analysis of each of these herbs revealed their major volatile

components. Table 1 provides an explanation of these

studies and their major volatile components.

Metal Kulisam

Metal Kulisams are either made of metal plates with specially

engraved patterns (Chakras) with chants or some herbs/

prepared medicines are ﬁlled in the metal tubes and used

to tie.[1]

Example

Gold Kulisam—Paravai Thodam

Seppu Kulisam—Patchi Thodam

Sembu Thagadu—Neer-pul Thodam

Animal Kulisam

Animal products such as bat wings and the tongue of

monitor lizards are used respectively for Thoongu-pul Thodam

and Aan Thodam.

Thodam

Thodam is a disease mentioned in Siddha literature,

Kuzhanthai maruthuvam. According to the literature, 3-month

to 1-year-old children are usually aected by this disease.

The literal meaning of Thodam is “Contact.” This disease

is said to be transmitted via contact. According to this

etiology and characteristic features of this disease, it is

Figure 1: Types of Kulisam

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Journal of Research in Siddha Medicine | Volume 7 | Issue 1 | January-June 2024 3

further classiﬁed as Patchithodam, Paravaithodam, Pulthodam,

Echilthodam, Etchithodam, Aanthodam, Pen thodam, and Therai

thodam.

Patchithodam is further classiﬁed as:

1. Aanpatchi Thodam

2. Pen patchi Thodam

3. Ali patchi Thodam

4. Malattupatchi Thodam

Pulthodam is further classiﬁed as:

1. Veengupul Thodam

2. Thoongu-pul Thodam

3. VilakkoliKan-pul Thodam

4. Venkanpul Thodam

5. Karudakan-pul Thodam

6. Sengan pul Thodam

7. Varat-pul Thodam

8. Pei Kannan-pul Thodam

9. Anthipul Thodam

10. Neer-pul Thodam

Pen Thodam is further classiﬁed as:

1. Penooru Thodam

2. Muttu Thodam

3. Kulisa Thodam

4. Kulithavalkanda Thodam

Table 1: Studies conducted on the essential oils present in the commonly used herbs in Kulisam along with their major volatile

components

S No. Commonly used

herbs in Kulisam

Study conducted on the essential oils of these herbs Volatile substance

1Vitex negundo Essential oil composition and anti-bacterial studies of Vitex

negundo Linn. Extracts.[5]

Beta curcumin 6.3%

delta guaione 18%

valencene 2.3%

Germacrene-D 4ol 9%

2Curcuma longa Curcuma longa L.

Rhizome essential oil from extraction to its agri-food applications.

A review.[6]

Beta turmeric 17.74%

Alpha turmerone 8.19%

Arturmerone 22.79%

Zingiberene 1.6%

3Allium sativum The chemical composition of the volatile oil garlic (Allium sativum)

and wild garlic.[7]

Diallyl tri-sulfate 33.4%

Diallyl disulphate 20.8%

Allyl methyl tri-sulfate

4Tachyspermum

ammi

Tachyspermum ammi (L) Sprague, a superb essential oil is a major

component of peptic ulcer in vivo combination in silico studies.[8]

Paracymene 37. 18%

Gamma terpinene 37.36%

Thymol 20.51%

5Acorus calamus The essential oil composition of the Acorus calamus. L from the

lower region of the Himalayas.[9]

Beta asarone 83.2%

Geranyl acetate

Beta bisabolene 1.2%

Alpha asarone 9.7%

6Acalypha indica Preliminary studies analysis of the fatty acids essential oils, and

flavonoids in Acalypha indica. L[10]

Phytol 38.85%

7Cynodon dactylon Cynodon

dactylon A systemic review of pharmacognosy phytochemistry

and pharmacology.[11]

Phytol 4.89%

8Solanum

trilobatum

A perspective on bioactive compounds from Solanum

trilobatum.[12]

Test for terpenoids—the Salkowshi test is positive

in their study—terpenoids and floral volatiles

9Leucas aspera Leucas aspera (wild) link essential oil from India: Beta

caryophyllene and locten-3-ol chemotypes.[13 ]

Beta caryophyllene 34.2%

1 octon 3-ol 14.8%

Alpha humulene 6.3%

Alpha pinene 5.8%

10 Abrus precatorius Antioxidant and free radicals scavenging capacity of seed and

shell essential oils extracted from Abrus precatorius (L).[14]

Limonene 19.08%

Octmene 8.94%

Myrcene 8.60%

Zingiberene 6.02%

11 Datura metal Chemical composition and cytotoxicity of the essential oil from

different parts of Datura metal (L).[15 ]

Phytol 31.32%

Ethyl linoleate 21.56%

12 Tinospora

cardifolia

Determination of chemical composition and evaluation of

antioxidant activity of essential oil from Tinospora cardifolia (wild)

leaf.[16]

Hydroquinone 16.6%

Palmitic acid 14.1%

Phytol 11.4%

13 Azadiracta indica Components of the essential oils of Azadiracta indica A. Juss,

Azadirachta

siamensis Velton, and Azadirachta excelsa (Jack) Jacobs and their

comparison.[17]

Hexadecanoic acid (34.0%)

Oleic acid (15.7%)

5,6, di hydro 2,4,6-tri ethyl (4H) 1,3,5 dithiazine

(11.7% )

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4 Journal of Research in Siddha Medicine | Volume 7 | Issue 1 | January-June 2024

5. Kulithavaleduttha Thodam

6. Karuchithaivaanaval Kanda Thodam

This disease has its own set of unique symptoms.[1] For

each classiﬁcation along with speciﬁc medicines, one or

more Kulisam models have been indicated.

1. Panaimaraver Kulisam and Seppu Kulisam are indicated for

Patchithodam.

• Panaimaraver Kulisam: The root of Borassus is wrapped

by ﬁve colored threads and tied around the hip and neck

• Seppu Kulisam: Tying Copperplate that underwent rituals

like yantra drawing and chantings

2. Aalinthulir Kulisam and Kundrimaniver Kulisam are

indicated for Paravai Thodam.

• Aalinthulir Kulisam: Young prop root of the Banyan tree

is wrapped in a cloth and tied as an amulet

• Kundrimaniver Kulisam: The root of the rosary pea is

wrapped by ﬁve colored threads put inside a gold amulet

and tied speciﬁcally on Thursday.

3. Sirupulladi Kulisam is indicated for Pul Thodam.

• Sirupulladi Kulisam: The root of creeping tick tree foil is

wrapped by ﬁve colored threads and tied around the hip

as an amulet

4. Vowvaaliragu Kulisam is indicated for Thoongu-pul Thodam.

• Vowvaaliragu Kulisam: The wing of a bat, the root of the

Scutch grass, and the root of the devil’s trumpet are

wrapped by a thread that is spun by a virgin girl and is

made as an amulet.

5. Chinni Kulisam is indicated for Vilakkolikan-pulthodam.

• Chinni Kulisam: Forsk, sweet ﬂag, and garlic are wrapped

in a cloth and tied as an amulet which should touch the

child’s chest.

6. Vattanarimirattiver Kulisam is indicated for Varat-pul

Thodam.

• Vattanarimirattiver Kulisam: The root of the blue rattle

pod is wrapped by a ﬁve colored thread and tied as an

amulet. The mother should apply curcumin paste on her

body and take a bath before feeding the baby.

7. Peyatthi Kulisam is indicated for Pei-Kannan-pul

thodam.

• Peyatthi Kulisam: The hairy ﬁg is wrapped by ﬁve-colored

thread and tied as an amulet. Sunday is suitable for tying

this amulet.

8. Siruchinni Kulisam is indicated for Anthipul Thodam.

• Siruchinni Kulisam: Forsk, Wood apple, Chinese chaste

tree, Heart-leaved moonseed, Neem Tree, Sweet ﬂag,

and Garlic are tied in a cloth and tied around the ankle

joint.

9. Vattathutthiver Kulisam and Sembuthagadu are indicated

for Neerpul Thodam.

• Vattathutthiver Kulisam: Indian mallow and crocodile fat

are tied with ﬁve colored threads and tied as an amulet.

• Sembuthagadu: Some rituals like mantra chantings are done

upon a copper plate and tied as an amulet.

10. Amukkarasedi Kulisam and Aalavizhuthu Kulisam are

indicated for Etchi Thodam.

• Amukkarasedi Kulisam: Ashwagandha is tied with silk

thread and some rituals like chanting mantras are done

and made into an amulet.

• Aalavizhuthu Kulisam: Prop roots of Banyan are wrapped

with ﬁve colored threads and Some rituals like chanting

mantras are done while making it into an amulet.

11. Parutthi Kulisam and Chinni Kattu are indicated for Pen

Thodam.

• Parutthi Kulisam: Roots of Levant cotton are tied as an

amulet.

• Chinni Kulisam: Acalypha alinifolia, wood apple, sweet ﬂag,

Garlic, and Mango tree roots are wrapped in a white cloth

and tied at contra-lateral limbs

12. Sooriver Kulisam, Arugamver Kulisam, and Kaattaathi

Kulisam are indicated for Kulisa Thodam.

• Sooriver Kulisam: Shaggy Button Weed is tied with ﬁve

colored threads and rituals like chanting mantras are

performed while making an amulet.

• Arugamver Kulisam: Roost of Scutch grass is made into

an amulet.

• Kaattaathi Kulisam: Ajwain, Shatavari, Levant cotton,

and Fire Flame Bush are made into an amulet while

performing some rituals.

13. Thoothuvalaiver Kulisam is indicated for Kulithavaleduttha

Thodam.

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• Thoothuvalaiver Kulisam: Nightshade, Copperleaf,

Common Leucas root, and Rosemallow are tied into an

amulet.

14. Kaattaathi Kulisam is indicated for Karpamazhinthavalkanda

Thodam.

• Kaattaathi Kulisam: Ajwain, Shatavari, Levant cotton, ﬁre

ﬂame bush is tied into an amulet. Sunday is considered

a better day for tying.

15. Udumbunaakku Kulisam is indicated for Aan Thodam.

• Udumbunaakku Kulisam: Thread made from Giant

calotrope and monitor lizard’s tongue are tied together,

and some rituals like chanting mantras are performed

while making it into an amulet.[1]

Infants mouthing objects is a common behavior in their

motor development[18] and the said Thoda diseases also

commonly occur in infancy (age between 3 months and

1 year)[1] so, Kulisam is a well-fitting therapy for infants.

Such Kulisams along with their indications, preparation

methods, and special mentions are given in the following

[Table 2].

Table 2: Kulisams along with their indications, preparation methods, and special mentions

SN Disease Kulisam Preparation Special

mentions

1Patchi Thodam Panaimara

Kulisam

The root of Barassus ﬂabellifer L. (Borassus) + 5 color thread Tying area: Hip,

neck

Seppu Kulisam Copperplate + Enkona chakram (A yantra drawing) + chant -—

2Paravai

Thodam

Aalinthulir

Kulisam

Young prop root of Ficus benghalensis (Banyan) + cloth —

Kundrimaniver

Kulisam

Abrus precatorious L. (Rosary pea root) + five colored thread + gold amulet Tie it on Tuesday

3Pul Thodam Siru Pulladi The root of Desmodium triphlorum (root of creeping tick tree foil) + five colored threads The hip region

is good for tying

this amulet

4Thoongu-Pul

Thodam

Vowvaal Iragu

Kulisam

Wing of bat + root of datura metal (devil’s trumpet) + root of Cynodondactylon (scutch

grass) + Thread made by a virgin girl.

Tuesday is better

for tying

5Vilakkoli Kan

Pul Thodam

Chinni Kulisam Acalypha fruticosa (Forsk) + Acorus calamus (sweet flag) + Allium cepa L. (garlic) + cloth The amulet

should touch the

chest of the child

6Varat-pul

Thodam

Vatta Nari

Miratti Ver

Kulisam

Crotalaria verrucosa (rattle pod) + five colored thread The mother

should take a

curcumin bath

7Pei Kannan

Thodam

Peyyathi

Kulisam

Ficus hispida (hairy fig) + five colored thread Sunday is good

for tying

8Anthi Pul

Thodam

Siruchinni

Kulisam

Acalypha fruticosa (Forsk) + Limonia acidissima (wood apple)

+ Vitex negundo (Chinese chaste tree) + Tinospora cardifolia (heart-leaved moon seed) +

Azadiracta indica (neem tree) + Acorus calamus (sweet flag) + Allium sativum (garlic) + cloth

The ankle joint is

good for tying

9Neer-Pul

Thodam

Vattathutthiver

Kulisam

Abutilon indicum (Indian mallow) + crocodile fat + five colored threads —

Sembuthagadu Chanting and Yantra drawing —

10 Etchi Thodam Amukkarasedi

Kulisam

Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) + silk thread + chant —

Aalavizhuthu

Kulisam

Prop root of Ficus benghalensis (banyan tree) + five colored thread —

11 Pen Thodam Parutthi

Kulisam

Root of Gossypium herbaceum (levent cotton) —

Chinni Kattu Acalypha alinifolia + Limonia acidissima (wood apple) + Acorus calamus (sweet flag) + Allium

sativum (garlic) + Mangifera indica (mango tree root) + white cloth

Tie at contra

lateral limbs

12 Kulisa Thodam Soori ver

Kulisam

Shaggy button weed + five colored thread + chant —

Arugam ver

Kulisam

Root of Cynodon dactylon (such as root) —

Kaattaathi

Kulisam

Tachyspermum ammi (Ajwain)+ Asperagus racemosus (Shataveri)+ Gossypium herbaceum

(Levent cotton) + Woodfordia fruticose (fire flame bush)

—

13 Kulithaval

Eduttha Thodam

Thoothuvalai

Ver Kulisam

Solanum trilobatum (night shade) + Acalypha indica (copper leaf) + Leucas aspera root

(common leucas root) + Hibiscus ovalifolius (rosemallow)

—

14 Karpam

Azhinthaval

Kanda Thodam

Kaattaathi

Kulisam

Tachyspermum ammi (ajwain) + Asparagus racemosus (sataveri) + Gossypium herbaceum

(levent cotton) + Woodfordia fruticosa (fire flame bush)

Sunday is better

for tying

15 Aan Thodam Udumbu

Naakku Kulisam

Thread from Calotrophis gigantea (Giant calotrope) + monitor lizard’s tongue + chant —

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6 Journal of Research in Siddha Medicine | Volume 7 | Issue 1 | January-June 2024

The special mentions are not uniformly given for all the

Kulisams in the source.[1] In some, there is data available

for where or when to tie. In some, there is data available

for other rituals. In some there is none. Phyllanthus

amarus, Cardiospermum helicacabum, Achyranthes aspera,

Ocimum americanum, Dichrostachys cinerea, Elytraria acaulis,

and Desmodium triﬂorum, are used for all kinds of Thoda

diseases.[19,20]

The possible mechanism behind the therapeutic

action of herbal Kulisam:

• Ingestion

• Inhalation

• Skin route

Ingestion

Amulets are used to tie around the wrist, neck, and ankle.

Infants mouthing objects is a common behavior according

to their developmental psychology.[18] The disease Thodam

is also said to occur mostly in children in their infancy. The

young children tend to lick, chew, and bite on the amulet. In

such activities, the essential oils and bioactive components

inside the Kulisam can ingested via the oral route and it

could also enter the digestive tract, and absorbed into the

circulation, and produce pharmacological action. When the

bioactive compounds of the herbs get mixed with saliva.

Their bioavailability can increase. The possible hypothesis

is illustrated in Figure 2.

Inhalation

Most of the herbs used in Kulisam contain essential oils,

which are explained in Table 1. On inhalation, the bioactive

compounds have a probability of getting absorbed via two

routes.

Respiratory route

On inhalation, the volatile components of herbs can

reach dierent regions of the respiratory system. The

gaseous exchange takes place in the alveoli, so the bioactive

molecules dissolve into the respiratory epithelium of the

alveoli, thus it can enter into the bloodstream.[21] Which is

illustrated in Figure 3.

Olfactory nerve route

Volatile components of the essential oils of the herbs,

when inhaled, can bypass the olfactory epithelium and

attach to the dendritic receptors of the olfactory nerve

ﬁbers. This process generates an action potential and gives

away olfactory odorant signals which in turn stimulate

the corresponding regions of the brain. The volatile

components can bypass the mucous membrane and enter

into circulation.[22] Which is illustrated in Figure 4.

Skin route

Essential oils easily permeate the skin making the

transdermal delivery of the bioactive components easier.

Wearing a Kulisam and taking an oil bath in hot water has

the probability of dissolving the drug. Drugs can penetrate

the skin layers, and become available for absorption into the

dermal microcirculation.[23] Which is illustrated in Figure 5.

Plants used in Kulisams and their phytochemicals along

with their pharmacological actions are mentioned below

in Table 3.

Figure 2: Probable route of entry of substance in Kulisam—ingestion

Figure 3: Probable route of entry of substance of Kulisam—Inhalation—(A) respiratory route

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Journal of Research in Siddha Medicine | Volume 7 | Issue 1 | January-June 2024 7

Example—Turmeric, studies on the three possible routes

of entry on this herb is given below:

1. The anti-inﬂammatory, anti-allergic, and asthmatic

properties of curcumin on intranasal delivery are

researched by Subhashini et al.[38] According to her

study, Intranasal curcumin has been reﬂected in the

plasma within 15 min to 3 h at pharmacological doses.

2. Jun et al.[39] reported that topical application of curcumin

tends to inhibit IL-1beta and IL-6 Production in mice.

3. Kawanishi et al.[40] administrated curcumin 3 mg orally

in downhill-running mice. normally macrophage count

is higher in the downhill-running mice than in normal

mice. However, after the administration of curcumin,

there is a reduction in macrophage count, reduction

in oxidative stress, and reduction in inﬂammatory

cytokines.[40]

Turmeric is one of the commonly used herbs in the Kulisam.

Comparable evidence on metal-based Kulisam

Metal-based Kulisams are referred for pediatric diseases such

as Patchi Thodam, Neer Pulthodam, and Paravai Thodam.[1] The

most commonly used metals for Kulisams are copper, gold,

silver, and iron.

Nowadays there’s a practice of therapeutic bracelets made

up of metals. There are various researches conducted on

them, reveal that the sweat samples of individuals wearing

such bracelets show trace metal elements.[41,42]

1. Tim Harlow et al. conducted a randomized controlled

trial on 194 Osteoarthritis patients and split them into

three categories:

• Category 1—Wearing a standard strength static bipolar

magnetic bracelet.

• Category 2—Weak magnet bracelet.

• Category 3—Wearing dummy.

After 12 weeks, the mean pain scores were reduced when

assessed by the WOMACA pain scale. (Western Ontario

and Mc master universities Osteoarthritis lower limb pain

scale)

2. WR Walker et al. researched the therapeutic value of

copper bracelets. In the study, 300 arthritic patients

were divided into eight groups

• Group 1—Wear a proper copper bracelet.

• Group 2—Anodized aluminum resembling copper

bracelet.

• Group 3—Control.

For 50 days, the copper bracelet was weighed before after a

pair of bracelets showed a reduction of 80 mg when worn

around ankles and 90 mg when worn around the wrist.

Some of the sweat samples contain copper concentration.

The preliminary results [Figures 6 and 7] show some

therapeutic values on wearing the copper bracelets. There

are possibilities for metal Kulisams to exhibit similar eects

as those therapeutic bracelets.

Neutraceutical value of Kulisam

Herb

Nowadays children are often prone to get dysbiosis,

this is due to the frequent administration of antibiotics

to the children.[43] The essential oils in the Kulisam

contain a high MIC value and also act as a probiotic.

A combined intake of essential oils with probiotics

is beneficial to the gut microbiome. A healthy gut

microbiome is necessary for copper vitamin synthesis

and mineral absorption. Thus herbal Kulisams have

possible potential to act as a nutraceutical tool for

Siddha pediatrics.[44]

Metal

The recommended dietary allowance of copper

for infants is 200 μg/day.[45] Even though normal

breast milk contains 0.17 µg/mL level of copper.[46]

Lactose present in breast milk tends to interfere with

copper utilization.[47] Therefore, infants are prone to

anemia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, low body

temperature, irregular heartbeat, and thyroid problems

due to copper deficiency.[48] Therefore copper supply

through extra oral routes is necessary for breastfed

babies. Kulisam can act as an excellent nutraceutical

tool in that aspect.

Figure 4: Probable route of entry of the substance of KulisamvInhalation—

(B) olfactory route

Figure 5: Probable route of entry of substance of Kulisam—Cutaneous

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Precautions to be taken

Caution with the band of the Kulisam

Based on the survey study conducted by Muhammed

AN Adeboye, in Nigeria, some amulets with loose, tight,

or twisted neck bands tend to strangulate infants. Some

accessories such as fur and leather can be a focus of

infection and allergies for babies.[49]

Kulisa thodam

The Siddha system is a rational system of medicine.

Siddha classics also mentioned various types of adverse

reactions.[50] When comes to Kulisam, Siddha Balavagadam

remarked about the disease called Kulisathodam in which

women who are longing to get pregnant, wear an amulet

that tends to aect the other children surrounding them.[1]

Those children tend to develop certain symptoms such

condition another amulet called Vidathalaiver Kulisam is

indicated.[1]





Table 3: Kulisams and their phytochemicals along with their pharmacological actions

SN Tamil name/

Vernacular name

Botanical

name

Taste &

Potency

Phytochemicals Actions

1 Chinni/Forsk Acalypha

fruticosa

Bitter and hot

potency

Phenolic compounds,

flavonoids[24]

Antioxidant

2 Manjal/Turmeric Curcuma longa Pungent, bitter,

and hot potency

Hydropic essential oils

and curcuminoids[25]

Antivenom, antimicrobial,

antiarthritic, and antioxidant

3 Notchi/Chinese chaste

tree

Vitex negundo Bitter,

astringent, and

hot potency

Essential oils[5] Antibacterial, central

nervous system depressants,

analgesics, and sleep inducer

4 Vellaipoondu/Garlic Allium sativum Pungent and

hot potency

Allin, allicin, and

flavonoids (quercetin)[26]

Antistress, wound healing,

ulcer, inhibiting, and

antiinflammatory

5 Arugampul/scutch

grass

Cynodon

dactylon

Sweet and cold

potency

Flavonoids, fixed oils,

glucosides, volatile oil,

and terpenoids[26]

Antisyphilitic, antimicrobial,

and immunomodulatory

6 Omam/Ajwain Trachyspermum

ammi

Pungent and

hot potency

Glucosoids, phenolic

compounds, thymol, and

volatile oils[27]

Antinociceptive, antifilarial,

antimicrobial, and

bronchodilatory

7 Vasambu/Sweet flag Acorus calamus Bitter and hot

potency

Tannins, terpenoids,

saponins, and

phenolic[28]

Antibacterial and

antiulcerative

8Kuppaimeni/Copper leaf Acalypha indica Pungent, bitter,

and hot potency

Phenols, terpenoids,

anthocyanin, and

anthraquinones[29]

Antivenom, antifertility, and

wound healing

9 Thoothuvalai/

nightshade

Solanum

trilobatum

Pungent,

slightly bitter,

and hot potency

Cardiac glucoside,

terpenoids, flavonoids,

and alkaloids[30]

Anticancer, antihypertensive,

antidiabetic, and antimalarial

10 Thumbaiver/Thumbai/

Thronapushpi

Leucas aspera Sweet, pungent,

and hot potency

Tannins, terpenoids,

phenols, flavonoids, and

saponins[31]

Antipyretic, insecticidal,

antinociceptive, and

antidiarrheal

11 Panaimaraver/Borassus Barassus

ﬂabellifer

Astringent,

sweet, and cold

potency

Tannins, phenolic

compounds, and

steroids[32]

Antiinflammatory and

anticancer

12 Kundrimaniver/Rosary

pea

Abrus

precatorious

Sweet, slightly

bitter, and hot

potency

Abrin, toxalbumin,

abralin, and lipolytic

glucosides[33]

Antioxidant and

antiproliferative

13 Oomathaiver/Devil’s

trumpet

Datura metal Bitter and hot

potency

Atropine, hyoscine,

Hyoscyamine[34]

Analgesic, anticancer,

Antioxidant, and pain killer

14 Seenthil/Heart leaved

moon seed

Tinospora

cardifolia

Bitter and hot

potency

Phenolic compounds,

alkaloids, and aliphatic

compounds[35]

Immunomodulator,

antipyretic, antistress, and

hepatoprotective

15 Vembu/neem Azadirachta

indica

Bitter and hot

potency

Azadirachtin, nimbin,

quercetin, flavonoids,

and phenols[36]

Antimicrobial, anticancer,

antioxidant, and

immunomodulator

16 Thanneervittankizhangu/

shataveri

Asparagus

racemosus

Sweet and cold

potency

Quercetin, saponins,

phenols, and

flavonoids[37]

Galactagogue, tonic, and

diuretic

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Journal of Research in Siddha Medicine | Volume 7 | Issue 1 | January-June 2024 9





  

 

 



    



 

 

  

 



 



The above verse talk about the symptoms of Kulisam Thodam

and the indicated Vidathalaiver Kulisam.

CONCLUSION

The herbal and metal amulets of Siddha pediatrics with

the help of science are explored above. The vastness

of unsolved research questions and scope also can be

felt. Kulisam has the potential to act as a therapeutical,

pharmaceutical, and nutraceutical tool for Siddha

pediatrics. The concept of Kulisam got mixed with

superstitial beliefs also can be felt. For a long period,

the unique therapy of the Siddha system of medicine

Kulisamaadal has been alienated due to the unexplored

science base behind it and a lack of research in this

aspect, it is left as an unexplored treasure. Since Kulisam

is mentioned in the text literature of Siddha pediatrics

Kuzhanthai maruthuvam there is a need to retrieve it from

superstition and bring forth its scientiﬁc base. Having a

possible but signiﬁcant science base behind it, further

research on this aspect will take Siddha pediatrics to the

next level.

Authors contributions

Kayathri Ramasamy performed a vital role in the concept,

design, deﬁnition of intellectual content, literature search,

and manuscript preparation, and was a guarantor of this

article. Sarojini Ulaganathan assisted in the concept, and

deﬁnition of intellectual content, literature search, and

manuscript preparation. The article is reviewed by Geetha

Devi Sengottaiyan.

Financial support and sponsorship

Nil.

Conﬂicts of interest

There are no conﬂicts of interest.

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 

      ()    

             -,                 

                       ,        

                         ,   

,          ,                 

                    ,         

,                     -    

             -    ,               

                            

         ,           

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Explorations and Evidences of Adverse Drug Reactions In Siddha System of Medicine

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May 2023

ABSTRACT: BACKGROUND: In the new field of pharma - co vigilance, there lies Adverse drug reaction and it's types based on modern science. Siddha system of medicine already explained about these in our Siddha literature. It's our humble attempt to explore the Adverse drug reactions types along with the literary evidences. AIM: Attempt to convey the Adverse drug reactions types of Siddha medications to the beneficiaries. METHODS: The data are obtained from the literatures of Siddha - Agathiyar vaidhya vallaathi 600, Agathiyar paribooranam 400, kannusaamiyam sikitcha Vaidhya sekaram, Therayar Yamaha venba, kannusaamiyam sikitcha Ratna deepam Vaidhya sindhaamani, Gunapaadam thaathu vaguppu, and the scholarly articles of siddha - The classical siddha medical "poem on eczema triggering foods" - revited and the data are depicted through pictograms, graphical representation, tabulations etc. CONCLUSION: The field of pharmacovigilance is already enriched in our system of siddha medicine. High quality clinical trials and research are necessary to develop it even further. KEYWORDS: Siddha medicine, Adverse Drug Reactions, Augmented, Bizarre, Chronic, Delayed, End of use, Failure of treatment, Literary evidences.

Solanum Fruits: Phytochemicals, Bioaccessibility and Bioavailability, and Their Relationship With Their Health-Promoting Effects

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Nov 2021

The Solanum genus is the largest in the Solanaceae family containing around 2,000 species. There is a great number of edibles obtained from this genus, and globally, the most common are tomato (S. lycopersicum), potato (S. tuberosum), and eggplant (S. melongena). Other fruits are common in specific regions and countries, for instance, S. nigrum, S. torvum, S. betaceum, and S. stramonifolium. Various reports have shown that flavonoids, phenolic acids, alkaloids, saponins, and other molecules can be found in these plants. These molecules are associated with various health-promoting properties against many non-communicable diseases, the main causes of death globally. Nonetheless, the transformations of the structure of antioxidants caused by cooking methods and gastrointestinal digestion impact their potential benefits and must be considered. This review provides information about antioxidant compounds, their bioaccessibility and bioavailability, and their health-promoting effects. Bioaccessibility and bioavailability studies must be considered when evaluating the bioactive properties of health-promoting molecules like those from the Solanum genus.

Phytochemical Profile, Free Radical Scavenging and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Acalypha Indica Root Extract: Evidence from In Vitro and In Vivo Studies

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Oct 2021
MOLECULES

In our in vitro and in vivo studies, we used Acalypha indica root methanolic extract (AIRME), and investigated their free radical scavenging/antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Primarily, phytochemical analysis showed rich content of phenols (70.92 mg of gallic acid/g) and flavonoids (16.01 mg of rutin/g) in AIRME. We then performed HR-LC-MS and GC-MS analyses , and identified 101 and 14 phytochemical compounds, respectively. Among them, ramipril glucuronide (1.563%), antimycin A (1.324%), swietenine (1.134%), quinone (1.152%), oxprenolol (1.118%), choline (0.847%), bumetanide (0.847%) and fenofibrate (0.711%) are the predominant phy-tomolecules. Evidence from in vitro studies revealed that AIRME scavenges DPPH and hydroxyl radicals in a concentration dependent manner (10-50 μg/mL). Similarly, hydrogen peroxide and lipid peroxidation were also remarkably inhibited by AIRME as concentration increases (20-100 μg/mL). In vitro antioxidant activity of AIRME was comparable to ascorbic acid treatment. For in vivo studies, carrageenan (1%, sub-plantar) was injected to rats to induce localized inflammation. Acute inflammation was represented by paw-edema, and significantly elevated (p < 0.05) WBC, platelets and C-reactive protein (CRP). However, AIRME pretreatment (150/300 mg/kg bodyweight) significantly (p < 0.05) decreased edema volume. This was accompanied by a significant (p < 0.05) reduction of WBC, platelets and CRP with both doses of AIRME. The decreased activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione reductase and glutathione peroxidase in paw tissue were restored (p < 0.05 / p < 0.01) with AIRME in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, AIRME attenuated carrageenan-induced neutrophil infiltrations and vascular dilation in paw tissue. For the first time, our findings demonstrated the potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of AIRME, which could be considered to develop novel anti-inflammatory drugs.

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Dec 2020

Curcuma longa L. rhizome essential oil is a valuable product in pharmaceutical industry due to its wide beneficial health effects. Novel applications in the agri-food industry where more sustainable extraction processes are required currently and safer substances are claimed for the consumer are being investigated. This review provides information regarding the conventional and recent extraction methods of C. longa rhizome oil, their characteristics and suitability to be applied at the industrial scale. In addition, variations in the chemical composition of C. longa rhizome and leaf essential oils regarding intrinsic and extrinsic factors and extraction methods are also analysed in order to select the most proper to obtain the most efficient activity. Finally, the potential applications of C. longa rhizome oil in the agri-food industry, such as antimicrobial, weedicide and a food preservative agent, are included. Regarding the data, C. longa rhizome essential oil may play a special role in the agri-food industry; however, further research to determine the application threshold so as not to damage crops or affect the organoleptic properties of food products, as well as efficient encapsulation techniques, are necessary for its implementation in global agriculture.

The Effects of Essential Oils and Terpenes in Relation to Their Routes of Intake and Application

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Feb 2020
INT J MOL SCI

Essential oils have been used in multiple ways, i.e., inhaling, topically applying on the skin, and drinking. Thus, there are three major routes of intake or application involved: the olfactory system, the skin, and the gastro-intestinal system. Understanding these routes is important for clarifying the mechanisms of action of essential oils. Here we summarize the three systems involved, and the effects of essential oils and their constituents at the cellular and systems level. Many factors affect the rate of uptake of each chemical constituent included in essential oils. It is important to determine how much of each constituent is included in an essential oil and to use single chemical compounds to precisely test their effects. Studies have shown synergistic influences of the constituents, which affect the mechanisms of action of the essential oil constituents. For the skin and digestive system, the chemical components of essential oils can directly activate gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors and transient receptor potential channels (TRP) channels, whereas in the olfactory system, chemical components activate olfactory receptors. Here, GABA receptors and TRP channels could play a role, mostly when the signals are transferred to the olfactory bulb and the brain.

Culture-bound syndromes, idioms of distress, and cultural concepts of distress: New directions for an old concept in psychological anthropology

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Trachyspermum ammi (L.) Sprague, superb essential oil and its major components on peptic ulcers: in vivo combined in silico studies

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Jun 2019
DARU

Background: Trachyspermum ammi (L.) Sprague is used for treating gastrointestinal disorders. Several studies indicated gastric antiulcer activity of T. ammi extract, yet the effect of its essential oil has not been studied on. Objectives: The present study evaluates chemical composition of T. ammi essential oil and anti-peptic ulcer effect of the essential oil as well as its three major components in ethanol induced-gastric ulcers in rats. Methods: Primarily chemical composition of the essential oil was analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Rats received the essential oil (500, 250, 125, 62.5, 31.25 mg/kg), thymol (30, 100 mg/kg), para-cymene (100, 150 mg/kg) and gamma-terpinene (100, 150 mg/kg) using gavage tube along with ethanol 80%. Finally, dissected stomachs were assessed both macroscopically and microscopically to evaluate anti-ulcerative effect of the essential oil and the pure compounds. Moreover, molecular docking was utilized to explore the interactive behavior of the main components with active site residues of H+/K+ ATPase. Results: Analysis of the essential oil indicated that para-cymene (37.18%), gamma-terpinene (35.36%) and thymol (20.51%) are the main components. Administration of different doses of the essential oil noticeably diminished the number of peptic ulcers in a dose-dependent manner. Among the main components, thymol was more potent than para-cymene and gamma-terpinene. Administration of the essential oil (500 mg/kg) and thymol (100 mg/kg) observed maximum inhibition percentage (98.58% and 79.37%, respectively). Molecular docking study provides the evidence of thymol ability to inhibit H+/K+ ATPase. Conclusions: The findings revealed that T. ammi essential oil can be applied to treat gastric ulcer as a natural agent. Graphical abstract.

ETHNOMEDICINAL SIGNIFICANCE OF TWO IMPORTANT SHRUBS, VIZ Withania somnifera (L.) AND Datura metal (L.) (FAMILY SOLANACEAE) OF CHHATTISGARH, INDIA

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Jul 2018

The two medicinal shrubs, commonly found in Chhattisgarh are Withania somnifera (L.) and Datura metal (L.), both belonging to the family Solanaceae. These plants, besides having important characteristic features, are commonly used by the natives for their varied pharmacological/biological activities and hence for medicinal purposes. The present work reviews the important characteristics and medicinal uses of the two species of the family Solanaceae, that are common occurrence in the state of Chhattisgarh, India.

Antibiotics in early life: dysbiosis and the damage done

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Jun 2018
FEMS MICROBIOL REV

Antibiotics are the most common type of medication prescribed to children, including infants, in the Western world. While use of antibiotics has transformed previously lethal infections into relatively minor diseases, antibiotic treatments can have adverse effects, as well. It has been shown in children, adults and animal models that antibiotics dramatically alter the gut microbial composition. Since the gut microbiota plays crucial roles in immunity, metabolism, and endocrinology, the effects of antibiotics on the microbiota may lead to further health complications. In this review, we present an overview of the effects of antibiotics on the microbiome in children, and correlate them to long lasting complications of obesity, behavior, allergies, autoimmunity and other diseases.

Phytochemical composition and in vitro antioxidant potential of Cynodon dactylon leaf and rhizome extracts as affected by drying methods and temperatures

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Apr 2018

The effect of five drying methods including shade drying (SHD), solar drying (SOD), and oven drying at 30 (OD30), 40 (OD40) and 50 °C (OD50) on the phytochemical composition and antioxidant potential of C. dactylon leaf and rhizome was assessed. Among drying methods, OD50 resulted in the shortest drying time (18.3 and 12 h for rhizome and leaf, respectively), when compared with SHD and SOD. Based on GC–MS analyses, 15 and 17 constituents were identified in leaf and rhizome extracts, respectively, accounting for ~ 99% of all components. Fatty acids (palmitic acid and linoleic acid) along with their methyl esters (ethyl palmitate, ethyl linoleate and ethyl oleate) and other derivatives (dihomo-γ-linoleic acid) were the main identified constituents shortly after drying procedures; however, other components such as 5-hydroxymethylfurfural, maltol, retinol and phytol were also traced. Some of C. dactylon phytochemicals including 5-hydroxymethylfurfural and ethyl linoleate were sensitive to high drying temperatures. Besides, higher drying temperatures lead to the production or increasing the level of substances such as 2,3-dihydrobenzofuran, tricyclopentadeca-3,7-dien and 2,3-dihydro-3,5-dihydroxy-6-methyl-4H-pyran-4-one and diacetin. Based on the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging assay, the IC50 values were generally higher (significance level of 0.05) for oven-dried rhizome compared with shade-dried leaves and rhizomes that quenched more than 84% of the DPPH at the concentration of 400 mg/ml (IC50 59.12). Our findings suggest that OD30 is a versatile drying method not only to reduce drying time but also to preserve the main phytochemicals and antioxidant activity of C. dactylon during dehydration.