Career in Siddha Medicine presents an opportunity to delve into this ancient healing system and contribute to the well-being of individuals and communities. Siddha Medical Practitioners, equipped with extensive knowledge of medicinal plants, minerals, and natural remedies, diagnose, treat, and prevent various ailments. The field of Siddha Medicine provides a comprehensive understanding of human anatomy, physiology, pathology, and therapeutics, focusing on individualized patient care. By combining their expertise in herbs, diet, yoga, and meditation, Siddha practitioners offer holistic treatment approaches for diverse diseases and health conditions.
Siddha Medicine, an ancient traditional medical system originating in South India, has been practiced for centuries. It follows a holistic approach to healthcare, encompassing preventive, curative, and therapeutic practices. Siddha Medicine emphasizes natural healing, herbal remedies, dietary regulations, and lifestyle modifications to maintain harmony between the body, mind, and soul. To pursue a career in Siddha Medicine, individuals must complete undergraduate and postgraduate programs in Siddha Medicine, along with practical training and clinical experience. Effective communication skills, empathy, and a genuine passion for holistic healing are key qualities for success in this field.
Highlights
| Aspect | Key Points |
| Overview | Siddha Medicine, a traditional system of medicine, is widely practiced in South India. |
| Job Profiles | Opportunities include Siddha Doctor, Siddha Consultant, Siddha Medicine Researcher, Academician, and more. |
| Employment Settings | Siddha Clinics, Siddha Hospitals, Siddha Research Institutions, and Government Healthcare Centers. |
| Education Requirements | Completion of a Bachelor’s degree in Siddha Medicine, followed by postgraduate programs and practical training. |
| Skills Required | Profound knowledge of Siddha principles, Diagnostic skills, Expertise in herbal medicine, and Patience in patient care. |
| Salary Range | The average salary ranges from Rs. 3-6 lakhs per annum, depending on experience and expertise. |
Who are Siddha Doctors?
Siddha doctors offer personalized medical treatment, taking into account various factors such as the patient’s physical and mental characteristics, environmental conditions, and diet. Their role is similar to doctors in other fields, with the primary difference lying in the treatment procedures and medications utilized. Along with prescribing medicines, Siddha doctors also undertake additional responsibilities like supervising clinic operations, ensuring proper preparation of medications, and ensuring patients adhere to the prescribed treatment plan accurately.
Eligibility Criteria for Siddha Medicine
| Eligibility Criteria | Details |
| Educational Qualification | Candidates should have completed their Higher Secondary (10+2) education from a recognized board or its equivalent. The qualifying examination should include subjects such as Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and/or Mathematics. |
| Minimum Marks | Candidates are required to obtain a minimum aggregate percentage in the qualifying examination, as prescribed by the respective educational institution or university. The minimum marks required may vary among institutions. |
| Age Limit | The age limit for admission to Siddha Medicine courses may differ based on the policies of the educational institution and government regulations. Generally, candidates should be at least 17 years old at the time of admission. |
| Entrance Exams: | Some institutions and universities may conduct entrance exams for admission to Siddha Medicine courses. Candidates must qualify in these exams to secure admission. The specific details of the entrance exams, including eligibility criteria, syllabus, and exam pattern, can be obtained from the concerned institutions. |
Siddha Medicine Courses in India
A degree in Siddha medicine is required to work as a Siddha medicine Specialist or to pursue a career in Siddha medicine.
Undergraduate Courses
| Course Name | Duration |
| Bachelor of Siddha Medicine and Surgery (BSMS) | 5 .6 Years |
Post-graduate Courses
| Course Name | Duration |
| M.D.(Siddha) Varma Maruthuvam (Varma Medicine) | 3 years |
| M.D.(Siddha) Pura Maruthuvam (External Therapy) | 3 years |
| M.D.(Siddha) Nanju Maruthuvam (Toxicology) | 3 years |
| M.D.(Siddha) Noi Naadal (Pathology and Diagnostic Methods) | 3 years |
| M.D.(Siddha) Pothu Naruthuvam (General Medicines) | 3 years |
| M.D.(Siddha) Gunapadam (Pharmalogy) | 3 years |
| M.D.(Siddha) Kuzhanthai Maruthuvam (Paediatrics) | 3 years |
| M.D.(Siddha) Siddhar Yoga Maruthuvam (Yoga Science) | 3 years |
| M.D.(Siddha) Siddha Maruthuvam Adipaadai Ariviyal (Fundamental Principles of Siddha Medicine) | 3 years |
| M.D.(Siddha) Aruvai Maruthuvam (Siddha Surgical Procedures) | 3 years |
| M.D.(Siddha) Sool and Magalir (Obstetrics and Gynaecology) | 3 years |
| M.D.(Siddha) Thol Maruthuvam (Dermatology) | 3 years |
Syllabus for Siddha Course in India
The syllabus for the Siddha course is as follows:
| Semester I | Semester II | Semester III |
| Biochemistry | Pharmacology I | Varmam Therapy |
| Siddha Medicine- Principles and History | Siddha Pathology | Toxicology and Forensics |
| Physiology I | Microbiology | Paediatrics |
| Communicative English | Pharmacology II | Gynaecology and Obstetrics |
| Physiology II | Animal and Plant Kingdom Analysis | Dental Disease and Bone Setting Surgery |
| Pharmacognosy | Modern Pathology Principles | Special Medicine and External Therapy |
| Anatomy I | Pharmaceuticals | National Health Policies |
Employment Settings for Siddha Medicine Professionals
Siddha Medicine professionals have a wide range of employment opportunities in various healthcare settings. Here are some common employment settings for individuals in the field of Siddha Medicine:
Siddha Clinics and Hospitals: Siddha doctors can work in dedicated clinics and hospitals that specialize in Siddha Medicine. They provide comprehensive healthcare services, diagnose illnesses, and prescribe appropriate Siddha treatments to patients.
Ayush Hospitals and Research Institutes: Ayush hospitals and research institutes that focus on traditional medicine systems often employ Siddha Medicine professionals. They contribute to patient care, engage in research activities, and participate in the development of Siddha medicines.
Siddha Pharmaceutical Companies: Siddha Medicine professionals can find employment in pharmaceutical companies that specialize in the production and distribution of Siddha medicines. They may be involved in research and development, quality control, and manufacturing of Siddha medicines.
Government Health Departments: Government health departments at the state and national levels offer employment opportunities for Siddha Medicine professionals. They can work in public health initiatives, contribute to policy-making, and deliver healthcare services within the Siddha system.
Private Healthcare Organizations: Private hospitals, wellness centers, and healthcare organizations with a focus on holistic medicine often hire Siddha Medicine professionals. They provide specialized services to patients seeking alternative or complementary treatments.
Career Prospects & Job for Siddha Doctors
Siddha doctors have excellent career prospects and a wide range of job opportunities in the field of Siddha Medicine. Here are some potential career paths and job roles for Siddha doctors:
Siddha Medical Practitioner: Siddha doctors can establish their own clinics or work in healthcare centers where they diagnose and treat patients using Siddha Medicine principles and therapies.
Siddha Consultant: Siddha doctors can offer their expertise as consultants, providing specialized advice and guidance to patients, healthcare institutions, and research organizations. They can offer consultations for specific health conditions or provide recommendations for overall well-being.
Siddha Researcher: Siddha doctors can pursue a career in research, conducting studies to explore the effectiveness and safety of Siddha Medicine, developing new treatment approaches, and contributing to the scientific understanding of the field.
Siddha Academician: Siddha doctors can join academic institutions as faculty members, sharing their knowledge and expertise with students pursuing Siddha Medicine courses. They can be involved in teaching, curriculum development, and supervising research projects.
Siddha Pharmacist: Siddha doctors with a deep understanding of Siddha medicines can work in pharmaceutical companies or pharmacies, contributing to the formulation, production, quality control, and distribution of Siddha medicines.
Siddha Public Health Specialist: Siddha doctors can work in public health departments, government organizations, or non-profit organizations, focusing on community health and preventive care. They can participate in health education, awareness campaigns, and the implementation of public health policies.
Siddha Entrepreneur: Siddha doctors with an entrepreneurial spirit can establish their own wellness centers, spas, or Siddha medicine manufacturing units, offering comprehensive healthcare services and products.
The demand for Siddha doctors is growing, both within India and internationally, as more people recognize the value of traditional medicine systems. Siddha doctors have the opportunity to contribute to the well-being of individuals and communities by integrating Siddha Medicine principles with modern healthcare practices.
Role of Siddha Doctor
As a Siddha practitioner, the following are the day to activities:
- Having appointments with patients and checking their pulse through the unique method specified in the Siddha treatment system.
- Devising a diagnosis of the illness based on examining skin, tongue, complexion, speech, eye, urine and stools.
- Prescribing Siddha medicines which use herbs, animal products and minerals as their sources.
- Counseling patients on nutrition requirements and hygiene.
Skills Required for Siddha Doctor
Doctors diagnose and treat medical conditions, diseases and disorders through specialized medical knowledge and skills. Following are some of the skills required:
Communication Skills: Siddha practitioners excel in effectively conveying medical information, ensuring patient understanding, and collaborating with healthcare teams for comprehensive care.
Problem-Solving Skills: Siddha practitioners analyze symptoms, devise personalized treatment plans, and provide effective solutions by utilizing critical thinking and their expertise.
Attention to Detail: Siddha practitioners meticulously observe symptoms, gather medical history, and focus on comprehensive health assessment to accurately diagnose and monitor patients’ conditions.
Caring and Sympathetic Approach: Siddha practitioners cultivate a compassionate and empathetic attitude, fostering trust and comfort in patients during treatment.
Time Management and Leadership Skills: Siddha practitioners efficiently manage tasks, coordinate teams, and maintain smooth operations in fast-paced healthcare environments.
Compassion and Good Bedside Manner: Siddha practitioners demonstrate kindness, empathy, and active listening, creating a positive therapeutic environment for patients.
Ability to Work for Long Hours and Under Pressure: Siddha practitioners exhibit resilience, stamina, and composure while delivering quality care in demanding and high-pressure situations.
Decision-Making Skills: Siddha practitioners make informed choices based on expertise, clinical judgment, and evidence-based practices for optimal patient outcomes.
Average Salary
The starting salary for a Siddha Medical professional ranges from 2 lakh to 6.5 lakh per year. It can vary between the governmental and private sectors:
Government Jobs for BSMS:
| Job | Average Salary |
| Community Health Worker | Rs. 2,30,000/- |
| Research Assistant (Medical) | Rs. 3,50,000/- |
| Drug Safety Officer | Rs. 4,56,000/- |
| Medical Officer | Rs. 6,40,000/- |
Private Jobs for BSMS
| Job | Average Salary |
| Medical Assistant | Rs. 3,00,000/- |
| Clinical Research Associate | Rs. 3,40,000/- |
| Medical Consultant | Rs. 7, 20,000/- |
| Pathologist | Rs. 10,00,000/- |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Siddha Medicine?
A: Siddha Medicine is an ancient healing system originating from South India that emphasizes holistic health and employs natural remedies, diet, and lifestyle changes for treating illnesses.
Q: What are the educational requirements to pursue a career in Siddha Medicine?
A: To embark on a Siddha Medicine career, one must complete a Bachelor of Siddha Medicine and Surgery (BSMS) degree from a recognized Siddha medical college. This comprehensive 5.5-year program encompasses both theoretical knowledge and practical training.
Q: What career opportunities are available in Siddha Medicine?
A: Siddha Medicine offers diverse career paths, including employment in Siddha hospitals, clinics, government health departments, research institutes, academic institutions, and the possibility of establishing private practices.
Q: Is there a demand for Siddha Medicine practitioners?
A: Yes, there is a growing demand for Siddha Medicine practitioners as more individuals are seeking alternative and holistic approaches to healthcare. The natural remedies and holistic healing principles of Siddha Medicine resonate with the increasing interest in traditional medical practices.
Q: Can Siddha practitioners integrate their practice with modern medicine?
A: Certainly, Siddha practitioners can integrate their practice with modern medicine. Collaboration between Siddha and allopathic medicine is encouraged in certain cases to provide comprehensive and well-rounded patient care.
Q: What skills are essential for a successful career in Siddha Medicine?
A: Key skills include effective communication, problem-solving abilities, meticulous attention to detail, empathy and compassion towards patients, adept time management, leadership qualities, and sound decision-making capabilities.
Q: Are there opportunities for research and specialization in Siddha Medicine?
A: Absolutely, there are ample opportunities for research and specialization in Siddha Medicine. Practitioners can pursue advanced studies, engage in research endeavors, and specialize in areas such as internal medicine, pediatrics, dermatology, gynecology, orthopedics, and psychiatry.
Q: How can one stay updated in the field of Siddha Medicine?
A: Challenges include limited awareness and acceptance of Siddha Medicine, regulatory and legal frameworks, standardization of practices, and the need for more scientific research to establish evidence-based treatments.