A three year integrated degree course in the Siddha, Ayurveda and Unani Systems of
medicine (alternative medicines) and an one year
Diploma Course in Siddha Medicine and Varma System for aspiring students who wish to learn these
sciences mainly from direct sources i.e. Palm Leaf Manuscripts.
The main
objective is to present these sciences in their authentic form to the world and
disseminate the ancient knowledge and wisdom of these sciences globally for the
benefit of mankind.
ABOUT ALTERNATIVE
MEDICINES
Siddha System - Founded and
perfected by the Siddhas, the ancient seers, who were
experts in Yoga, Medicine and Astrology as well. The use of herbs, metals,
salts, corals and pearls for treating ailments is an
unique feature of this system. Keynote of this system is the
transformation of metals and minerals into potent therapeutic agents by using
special chemical processes. The special features of the systems are Varmam, Muccukalayam, Nadi Vijnanam and Tukanam akin to Acupuncture, and Moxa
treatments in
Ayurveda System - An ancient pan - Indian system of
medicine, this finds mention in the oldest repository of knowledge, RigVeda. Rishis or Saints in the days of yore are supposed to be the
founders and promoters of this system. Out of the
eight divisions of this system two of them, Caraka Samhita and Susrita Samhita deal with medicines and surgery as well. Knowledge
of this system of medicine reached many parts of the world especially
Unani System – A system popularized mainly by the
traditional Islamic practitioners of medicine. Hippocrates and Galen are
considered to be pioneers of this rare heritage. Later on Arabs took over and
developed the system and added many forms of effective medicines from other
contemporary medicine systems prevalent in different parts of the world.
Although this system varies slightly from the Siddha
and Ayurveda it has got close genetic relationship
with the above two traditional Indian systems of medicine.
Varma System – A part of the Siddha
System, it lays stress on the importance of various nerve points in the body
which serve as conduits to the flow of vital energy throughout the body. The malfunctioning
of these points are set right by application of
pressure on them. Varma system has two fold application, as therapeutic system and as martial art, which
has close links with the Kalaripayirru,
popular in Kerala. This was propagated by Buddhist
monks in several Asian countries including
All the above
mentioned systems of medicine have several common principles such as the
constituent elements of the body, humors which control several functions of the
human body and treatment for ailments with the help of herbal medicines.
These native
systems along with the Yoga are a significant component of the traditional
sciences of our country and they underwent a period of deterioration and
adversity owing to westernization. Thanks to the revival interest in the
national heritage, these great treasures of
About the
The Institute of Asian Studies located at Chemmancherry,
Chennai (adjacent to Info-highway) with its sylvan surroundings and serene
atmosphere is engaged in research and academic activities for the past 25 years
and is well acclaimed for its achievements in the study of the homogeneity in
Asian cultures and sensibilities. A preliminary survey undertaken by this
Institute informed us that there are more than four lakhs
palm leaf manuscripts scattered in various parts of
This Institute is recognized by the
The Institute has published the research findings in several areas of study
such as art, architecture, astrology, literary works and medicine, apart from
organizing a number of national and international conferences in
A team of dedicated scholars and researchers of this center are still engaged
in locating and undertaking research on ancient Palm leaf manuscripts thus
providing a bridge to link the past with the present and possibly the future
too.
Presently, the Institute, in collaboration with the UNESCO, is engaged in a programme entitled ‘Memory of the world’, the aim of which
is to collect, collate, and present to the world, informations
regarding our heritage and culture as drawn from the oldest and ancient
records, namely Palm leaf manuscripts and also from our rich oral traditions.
Preservation and conservation of the rich knowledge available in the fragile
palm leaf manuscripts is one of the academic programmes
very dear to the heart of this unique centre.
The UNESCO has appreciated
The
Infrastructure
§
Hostel and boarding facilities
§
Library with a rich collection of rare books and manuscripts
§
A full-fledged department of manuscriptology with
experts in the field
§
Well connected public transport system linking many parts of the city
§
Situated near the heart of the city
About the Degree Course
§
The course is compartmentalized into 3 yearly divisions of 6 topics each thus
totaling to 18 topics.
§
Theory classes conducted by expert scholars, in the morning sessions and
practical classes in the afternoon sessions.
§
Periodical visits to various institutions and therapy centres
in order to give a direct exposure to manufacturing process of medicines and therapy.
§
Regular review tests to appraise the level of awareness of students.
§
The art of reading Palm leaf manuscripts is
taught so that students can have a direct access to the original source of
ancient medicine systems.
§
Periodical guest lecture programme by experts in
§
At the end of every year qualifying examinations will be conducted.
About Diploma Course
§
An integrated study of Siddha and Varma
systems of medicine and therapy.
§
Regular morning and evening sessions for theory and practical classes.
§
Qualifying examinations at the end of the year.
Semester and Accreditation
The Degree and Diploma courses are designed and structured with stipulated
number of hours for theory and practical studies. Credits in all subjects are
awarded on par with international standards.
Basic Qualifications
§
Candidates should have completed school level Higher Secondary examinations.
§
Working knowledge in English is required
Commencement of the Courses :
The classes
commence from Monday the 16th of January 2006.
Fee structure
|
|
|
|
|
Tuition Fees |
US $ 1200 |
Per annum |
|
Hostel Fees |
US $ 900 |
Per annum |
|
Special Fees (includes cost
of course material, transport and medical facilities) |
US $ 200 |
Per annum |
|
Library fees |
US $ 50 |
Per annum |
Application and Prospectus
can be had from the
Payment to be
made in the form of Money Order, Demand Draft or Banker’s Cheque
drawn in favour of the Institute of Asian Studies,
Chennai, India payable at Chennai.
For further information:
Contact:
Dr. G. John Samuel
Director
Chemmancherry,
E-mail : ias@xlweb.com
Web site : http:www.xlweb.com/heritage/asian