A Comprehensive Review on Beneficial Effects of Foxtail Millet (Tiṉai) in Inflammatory Bowel Disease (Cōpai tōṭam) and its Progression to Colorectal Carcinogenesis (Kuṭal vippuruti)

This article aims to shed light on the nutritional composition of foxtail millet and its mechanism of action, explaining how it may contribute to managing Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) and its prevention of carcinogenesis.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) represents a worldwide health issue frequently associated with complications such as colorectal cancer (CRC). IBD patients experience a reduced quality of life due to persistent symptoms, underscoring the importance of dietary choices in their management. Foxtail millet (Tiṉai), a dietary staple in Siddha medicine, encourages dietary intervention for IBD. It is gluten-free, fiber-rich, and easily digestible, aligning with Siddha principles to balance humors, alleviate IBD-related diarrhea, and support gut health. Scientifically, foxtail millet is nutrient-rich and versatile. With support from both Siddha medicine and scientific evidence, foxtail millet emerges as a valuable dietary option for individuals with IBD. Government initiatives and the United Nations have declared, 2023 as the International Year of Millets underscoring the acknowledgment of the nutritional advantages of millets. Future research and clinical trials of foxtail millet will further uncover its potential, contributing to evidence-based nutritional guidelines for IBD patients and personalized nutrition strategies.

Hence, in this review, we documented detailed information about foxtail millet and its potential benefits like general gut health, IBD management, and prevention of colorectal cancer with support from both Siddha medicine and scientific evidence.