22/04/2026
🌿 World Liver Day 2026: Solid Habits; Strong Liver 🌿
Department of Maruthuvam, National Institute of Siddha
April 21, 2026 | 12-1 PM
On the occasion of World Liver Day (April 19, 2026), the Department of Maruthuvam, National Institute of Siddha, under the esteemed guidance of Director Prof. Dr. G. Senthilvel and Head of the Department Prof. Dr. H. Vetha Merlin Kumari, successfully organized a comprehensive public awareness program—"Solid Habits; Strong Liver"—and academic session on liver health from modern and Siddha perspectives on April 21, 2026, from 12 noon to 1 PM.
The event saw active participation from 75 members of the public, along with 30 postgraduate scholars and medical officers, reflecting strong commitment to preventive healthcare and knowledge dissemination.
The session began with an insightful introduction by Dr. Lavanya (Intern, Velumaiyilu Siddha Medical College), highlighting the global significance of liver health and the need for early lifestyle interventions.
Hospital Superintendent Dr. Radhika Madhavan, an accomplished alumnus of the Department of Maruthuvam, National Institute of Siddha, with notable postgraduate research in alcohol de-addiction (Kudiverinoi), delivered a thought-provoking address emphasizing:
The therapeutic value of traditional Siddha approaches like Karumbu Chaaru (sugarcane juice) and Seenthil, Parpadagam Kudineer for liver support.
The importance of regular oil baths in maintaining systemic balance.
The role of thiamine deficiency in liver disease and its impact on neurological development.
Nutritional insights, highlighting quail (Kaadai) as a rich source of thiamine and the benefits of Kaadai Nei for psychological well-being.
The academic segment featured valuable research presentations by postgraduate scholars:
Dr. Suma on fatty liver disease, focusing on its rising prevalence linked to sedentary lifestyles, metabolic syndrome, and the role of early dietary Siddha-based interventions in reversing hepatic steatosis, including the effect of Mandoorathi Kudineer.
Dr. Nisha on cholelithiasis (gallstone disease), discussing its pathophysiology, risk factors like obesity and dietary habits, and integrative management strategies including preventive nutrition, traditional remedies, and the combined effect of Siddha medicines.
NIS interns from Velumaiyilu Siddha Medical College delivered concise presentations:
Dr. Niranjana on jaundice, describing it as yellow discoloration of skin and sclera due to elevated bilirubin from liver dysfunction, hemolysis, or biliary obstruction, correlating with Pitham imbalance in Siddha medicine.
Dr. Kavya on hepatitis, an inflammatory liver condition caused by viral infections, alcohol, autoimmune factors, and metabolic disorders, with significant global burden and preventable outcomes via awareness and vaccination.
Dr. Monica on liver carcinoma, emphasizing its progression from chronic liver disease like cirrhosis, and diagnostic tools such as liver function tests, alpha-fetoprotein, imaging (USG, CT, MRI), and biopsy for early detection.
The program concluded with a strong message on preventive healthcare, dietary discipline, and integrating Siddha principles for liver health. This initiative marks a meaningful step toward community awareness and healthier lifestyles for liver wellness.
