Phytotherapeutic insights into pink flowers used in Siddha medicine for breast health and cancer management

Siddha medicine defines illness as disturbances in the Uyir Thathukkal (fundamental principles) induced by an imbalance of the Vali, Azhal, and Iyyam. Breast diseases like Marbu Katti (tumor-like swellings) indicate Iyyam stagnation and excessive Azhal. Pink-flowered plants like Sembaruthi (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis), Thamarai (Nelumbo nucifera), Roja (Rosa damascena), Manthaarai (Bauhinia variegata), and Athimathuram (Glycyrrhiza glabra) are described in Siddha Materia Medica (Gunapadam) as cooling and blood-purifying herbs. In this study, Siddha scriptures, traditional formulations, and Siddha Medical procedures are used to compile evidence on the use of pink flowers to treat Marbu Noi (Breast diseases). Thamarai Kudineer and Sembaruthi Thailam are utilized both internally and topically to disintegrate glandular swellings, cleanse Rakta thaathu, and recover humoral balance, as per the Siddha System. These plants purify the body (Udal), nourish the tissues (Udal Thathukkal), and control energy (Uyir Thathukkal). Siddha therapy's holistic and energy-based breast care and treatment is emphasized in this evaluation, and allopathic interpretations are left out. The findings highlight the need for consistent Siddha documentation for future clinical validation and its unique relevance in women's health.