Vol. 3 No. 3 (2021): Volume 3, Issue 3, Year 2021
Articles

Food thy be medicine – A perspective from ancient Tamils

Chellam N
Department of Food Service Management and Dietetics, Avinashilingam Institute for Home Science and Higher Education for Women, Coimbatore-641043, Tamil Nadu, India.
Uma Mageshwari S
Department of Food Service Management and Dietetics, Avinashilingam Institute for Home Science and Higher Education for Women, Coimbatore-641043, Tamil Nadu, India.

Published 2021-05-13

Keywords

  • Siddhars,
  • Agathiyar,
  • Theraiyar,
  • Food Prescriptions,
  • Ancestors

How to Cite

N, C., & S, U. M. (2021). Food thy be medicine – A perspective from ancient Tamils. International Research Journal of Tamil, 3(3), 7-21. https://doi.org/10.34256/irjt2132

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Abstract

The global burden of epidemic diseases coupled with lifestyle based non communicable disorders has compelled us to revisit our ancestral way of living with a hope for salvage and to improve our present quality of life. Our historical literatures reveal some interesting facts from our rich heritage about our ancestors and their secrets for longevity, especially of Siddhars and Sages who lived amongst us across several decades. The present study has explored relevant scriptures of ancient sages like Agasthiyar and Theraiyar. Their prescriptions were analyzed from a scientific perspective based on its composition, consumption, regional prevalence, processing techniques etc and their significance of incorporating them in present day diet modifications for major and minor illnesses. In present scenario customized dietary therapy is being highly recommended for various illnesses upon diagnosing the cause and to effectively recover optimal health. Hence the study is felt necessary and need of the hour to revive our historical culinary recipes/ practices for a healthier society.

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