Pharmacognostical, Physicochemical Validation of Classical Marine-Derived Siddha Drugs (Kadalpadu Thiraviyangal)

Marine-derived substances occupy a significant place in Siddha pharmaceutics and some of the marine drugs are collectively known as Kadalpadu Thiraviyangal. It includes Conch (Sangu), Amber gris (Ambra gresia), Coral (Pavazham), Pearl (Muthu), and Sodium chloride (Uppu), which are extensively used in classical Siddha formulations due to their greater therapeutic efficacy. Siddha literature describes these marine drugs having coolant, Expectorant, and Tonic activities. Modern scientific studies reveals that these substances are rich in calcium carbonate, trace minerals, and bioactive compounds with pharmacological properties such as Anti-oxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Immuno-modulatory, and Anti- microbial effects. Pearl powder exhibits antioxidant and wound-healing activities, while coral and conch shells primarily consist of calcium carbonate and serve as mineral supplements. Ambergris contains Ambrein, a biologically active triterpene compound with pharmacological significance. Sodium chloride plays a vital role in electrolyte balance and cellular function. This review scientifically validates Kadalpadu thiraviyangal by correlating Siddha literature with modern physicochemical and pharmacological studies, emphasising their therapeutic potential, chemical composition, and medicinal applications.