The role of honey in pediatric treatments in Sri Lankan Siddha Medicine

Abstract

Honey is used as food and for the treatment of indigenous medicines worldwide, also in Sri Lanka for a long time. Siddha Medicine is one of the four indigenous medicines currently practiced in Sri Lanka and is generally practiced in the Eastern and Northern Provinces of Sri Lanka. This study aims to explore and highlight the use of honey in pediatric treatments in Sri Lankan Siddha Medicine. Preparations used to treat pediatric disorders were obtained from standard Sri Lankan textbooks used in Siddha Medicine degree programs at universities in Sri Lanka [Pararasaseharam (Part Two) and Seharasasehara Treatment]. A total of 30 preparations were identified using honey as an ingredient or adjuvant. Honey is generally used to treat indigestion and disorders associated with the digestive system. This is the first study on the role of honey in pediatric treatments in Sri Lankan Siddha Medicine. This work identified, analyzed, and documented the use of honey in pediatric treatments in Sri Lankan Siddha Medicine.