Abstract:
Background:
Siddha Medicine is one of the Indigenous medical systems, which mentions
about 4448 diseases affecting humans. Suram (fever) is considered as one of the
diseases in Siddha Medicine whereas Western Medicine considers it as a sign
and symptom of many diseases.
Aim: The present literary review on Suram is aimed at incorporating all the
relevant informations pertaining to understanding the synonyms, causes,
pathology and types which have been mentioned in various Siddha literatures
in scattered form.
Materials & Methods: Literatures pertaining to Suram were reviewed from
library of Unit of Siddha Medicine, University of Jaffna and main library of
Jaffna municipal council. Thirteen books were identified and collected for this
study.
Observations: Out of 13 literatures, 7 (53.84 %) have mentioned about the
causes of Suram. All 13 literatures have mentioned the types of Suram which
are categorized based on Doshas. 45 causes are identified and categorized
based on the Tridoshas (Vatha, Pitha and Kapha) through unhealthy diet and
habits. Among the 182 types of Suram identified, 64 types (35%) fall under the
category of mixed which are categorized based on the affected Doshas, Dhatus
and clinical features. Vata and Vata Kapha Suram are mentioned in 77% of
literature and 71% have considered the cause as vitiation of Vathadosha.
Conclusion: A total of 182 types of Suram, due to Vatha and Vathakapha as the
main cause has been mentioned in 77% of literature.The literary survey
reveals, unhealthy food and habits (71%) as the main cause for Vatha and
Vathakapha Suram.
