A Literature Review on Traditional Siddha Diet for Aan Maladu (Male Infertility)

Abstract

The Siddha system of Medicine provides preventive, curative and rejuvenating health care through a holistic approach. Siddha system has a strong belief that a proper dietary habit can prevent or reduce the severity of an illness. Changes in lifestyle and food habits are the main reason for any health conditions like infertility. Infertility affects 8-12% of couples globally, with a male factor being a primary or contributing cause in approximately 50% of couples. The exact reason for the decline in semen quality is not apparent, but it may be due to nutritional, socioeconomic or other unknown causes. Hence this paper tries to speak about the traditional siddha diet mentioned in Tamil literature to improve male fertility. Siddha text has specified food items like Murungai Vithai (Moringa oleifera) for Spermatorrhoea; Vazhai Poo (Musa paradisiaca), Kalapu nei (mixed ghee) and Vellattu kari (Goat Meat) to increase the secretion of
semen and Sirupasalai Keerai (Portulaca oleracea) and Vathumai paruppu (Prunus dulcis) increases libido. Tamil traditional food recipes like dhal pongal, wheat adai, kambu koozh, thinai rice and black gram idly can also help in various conditions of Ann maladu including oligospermia, azoospermia, asthenospermia, teratospermia. Horse gram should be avoided by persons having issues with fertility. A Proper Siddha dietary plan can attain a dramatic change in male infertility, which has been experienced by many. The revival of the Siddha dietary habits may reduce the burden of people suffering from infertility.