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The Siddha System of medicine is peculiar to Tamil Nadu and is believed to have been conceived by siddhars or evolved souls who lived in the hoary past. They either numbered 18 or there were 18 schools of siddhars. The siddhars were great doctors of medicine, philosophers, men with deep knowledge of anatomy and chemistry and savants, mystic saints and great seers noted for their wide travel, simple living and high thinking.
The Palani Hill, rich in herbs, was the abode of siddhars and has been known as cittan vâzhvu. The Siddha system of medicine flourished here. The Devasthânam has helped the preservation of this system by donating Rs. two lakhs to the Tamil Nadu Government for printing of rare manuscripts. A full-fledged research-cum-teaching institution has been set-up in Madras and production of medicines undertaken. The recognition of the siddha system of medicine by the Government of India has also been a result of the Devasthânam's efforts.
Since 1964, a Siddha Dispensary is functioning in Dandapani Nilayam and curing skin diseases, jaundice and children's ailments. Working hours: 7.30 am to 10.30 am and 3 to 5 pm. On holidays, the dispensary functions only in the morning. The Devasthânam proposes to put up permanent buildings for the Siddha Dispensary.
