Abstract

EFFECTIVENESS OF VARMAM THERAPY ON HYPERTENSION

L. Janani*, R. Manickavasagam

Abstract

Siddha System of Medicine is one of the ancient indigenous medical systems originated from India has a vast repository of classical formulations, as internal medication and various other external therapies. Varmam is a unique therapeutic method of Siddha. Points of junctions of muscles, nerves, tendons, blood vessels, bones and joints where pranic energy remains concentrated are called varmam points. Varmam also indicates the therapeutic manipulation of specific points in which the pranic energy is found concentrated. Varma therapy plays a vital role in prevention and management of hypertension. Hypertension is one of the leading causes of the global burden of disease. Approximately 7.6 million deaths (13–15% of the total) and 92 million disability-adjusted life years worldwide were attributable to high blood pressure in 2001. Hypertension is present in all populations except for a small number of individuals living in primitive, culturally isolated societies. In Siddha, Hypertension is considered as Athikuruthiazhutham, Abnormality of Seneer thathu (blood element). Varmam which is a well established course of treatment for musculoskeletal problems has not been used extensively for management of Hypertension. Therefore a study was undertaken to measure the effect of varma therapy on Hypertension.

Keywords: Athikuruthiazhutham, Seneer thathu, Varmam.