Abstract
Vision is the predominant of our senses which plays an indispensable role in each and every
sphere of our lives. Ophthalmology has been practiced by part of Tamil civilization since ages.
The Classical Siddha text Agasthiyar Nayana Vidhi describes 96 types of Eye diseases. Most
common Eye diseases affecting worldwide are Kann kasam (Cataract), Padalam (Keratitis),
Pillam (Trachoma). Cataract results from opacification of lens fibers. Trachoma is the leading
infectious cause of blindness, caused by Chlamydia trachomatis. Keratitis is the inflammation
of the cornea, it may be infectious or non-infectious origin. Though surgery and antibiotics are
treatment strategies in modern medicine, there are numerous highly effective Siddha
formulations for treating these eye diseases. The objective is about reviewing 5 external Siddha
formulations - Chandra Prakasam, Suriyagandhi Kayiru, Neelakanda Mathirai, Anjanaathi
Mathirai and Thambirathi Mathirai obtained from Agathiyar Nayana Vidhi 500, for their
effectiveness in treating Kann Kaasam, Padalam, Pillam and comparing them with Cataract,
Keratitis and Trachoma respectively.
The phytochemicals present in the raw drugs of the 2 selected Siddha formulations, Chandra
Prakasam (herbal) and Suriyagandhi Kayiru (herbo-mineral), are reviewed elaborately for their
action against Kann Kasam, Padalam, and Pillam, and their signs and symptoms are compared
with those of Cataract, Keratitis, and Trachoma, respectively. Chandra Prakasam and
Suriyagandhi kayiru synergistically act as antioxidants, anti-cataract, anti-inflammatory, anti
microbial, anti-fungal, and radioprotective. Important phytochemicals found in selected
formulations are alkaloids, polyphenols, tannins, lanosterol, carotenoids, flavonoids, and
antioxidant enzymes, which are integral in the management of eye diseases.
Keywords
Antioxidant, Chandra Prakasam, Kann Kasam, Padalam, Suriyagandhi kayiru.