An Evidence-Based Review of Parangipattai Pathangam for its Therapeutic Efficacy

Background: The Siddha system of medicine, integrates ancient philosophy with scientific principles, focusing on the transformation of metals and minerals into nanoparticles through various processes. Parangipattai Pathangam, a Siddha Herbo-mineral sublimate, illustrates this process by sublimating metals like mercury, sulphur, and cinnabar with pretreated Smilax china Linn soaked in various herbal juices to create a fine therapeutic powder. Scientific analysis confirm its stability, acidic nature, and bioactive compounds, validating its long shelf life and diverse applications. Objective: A review of the scientific literature on the ingredients of Parangipattai pathangam was undertaken. Method: This comprehensive assessment involved searching through Siddha literature, unpublished dissertations, Thesis, as well as relevant publications in multiple databases and electronic search engines, including National Library of Medicine (NLM), Pub Med Central, Science Direct, Embase, Mendely, Google scholar. The aim was to gather all pertinent information available on the subject. The pharmacological review highlights its anti-inflammatory, wound healing, and antioxidant activities, which align with traditional Siddha uses. Previous studies on advanced techniques such as HPTLC, FT-IR spectroscopy, SEM-EDS, and TGA characterize Parangipattai Pathangam, revealing particle sizes below 50 nm and a crystalline structure with enhanced bioavailability. Toxicity studies demonstrate its safety in controlled doses. Novelty: This study emphasizes the blend of ancient wisdom and modern scrutiny, offering the potential for contemporary medical advancements while preserving traditional healing practices. Further research aims to expand its therapeutic applications. Keywords: Parangipattai Pathangam, Siddha Sublimate, Siddha, Purification