The Siddhars by their spiritual and yogic practices attained immense knowledge and experience in

Vaithiyam (Medicine), Vatham (Alchemy), Jothidam (Astrology), Manthirigam (Thanthric practices),

Yogam (Meditation and yogic exercises) and Gnanam (Knowledge about the Almighty).

 Siddhars believed in a holistic concept.  Accordingly they said

“Food is Medicine, Medicine is Food” (Unave Marunthu, Marunthe Unavu)

“Sound mind makes the sound body” (Manamathu Semmaianal Manthiram sebika vendam)

There are 18 siddhars who are considered as the pillars of siddha medicine according to Tamil
tradition. There is no consensus on their exact time era. Their names, contributions, popular beliefs
about them and probable place where they attained Samadhi (eternal consciousness) are listed
below.

Konganar

 Konganar is considered as the son of Bogar. His period is said to be around 4th and 5th
centuries B.C.
 He lived probably in Kongunadu in Tamil nadu.
 He wrote more than 40 books that deal with alchemy and the elixir (muppu) of life. 
 He also contributed to philosophy, medicine and spiritual practices.
 He attained Samadhi at Thirupathi.