As part of their academic curriculum, second Professional BSMS students from the Government Siddha Medical College, Palayamkottai, visited the Shanthigiri Ayurveda & Siddha Medicine Manufacturing Unit, Shanthigiri Siddha Medical College, and the Herbal Garden at Shanthigiri for a one-day educational study tour.

The visit was organized to provide students and faculty with first-hand exposure to modern Siddha pharmaceutical manufacturing practices and the cultivation of medicinal plants, complementing their classroom learning.

At the Shanthigiri Medicine Manufacturing Unit, Dr. Aneesh S. Murugan, Deputy Medical Officer and Head of the Siddha Division, explained each stage of Siddha medicine production, including the procurement and purification of raw materials, preparation of various formulations such as Choornam (powders), Mathirai (tablets), Lehyam (electuaries), Thailam (medicated oils), as well as packaging and storage procedures.

During the visit to the Herbal Garden of Shanthigiri Siddha Medical College, Dr. Sindhu B.P., Associate Professor, Department of Gunapadam, introduced the students to a wide range of medicinal plants and explained their therapeutic significance.

The visiting team comprised 90 students, accompanied by Dr. Mahilan, M.D. (Siddha), Assistant Professor, Department of Gunapadam, and Ms. Chandra Prabhavathi, Laboratory Technician, from Government Siddha Medical College, Palayamkottai.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Mahilan said:

“Industrial exposure, along with classroom-based theoretical learning, significantly enhances students’ confidence. Such experiences inspire them to pursue research and motivate them to establish their own ventures in the future.”

The programme was coordinated under the leadership of Dr. P. Hariharan, M.D. (Siddha), Vice Principal, Shanthigiri Siddha Medical College. Students also interacted with Dr. Vaishnavi P., Assistant Professor, Department of Kuzhanthai Maruthuvam (Paediatrics), and Dr. Sapna C., Assistant Professor, Department of Sattam Sarntha Maruthuvam (Forensic Medicine & Toxicology).

Both institutions expressed their commitment to continuing such academic exchange programmes every year, recognizing their value in enhancing practical knowledge, professional skills, and collaborative learning among Siddha medical students.