Ayurveda is based on the theory that certain substances of vegetable, animal and mineral origin have curative values. These medicinal properties have been well documented by various authors and compilers of Ayurvedic literature who observed and experimented with herbs, minerals, metals, animal parts, cooked food articles, natural foods and fruits. Details of these substances are given according to their nature, effects, and curative properties. Thyroid disease is mentioned in detail by Charaka, one of the authors of an Ayurvedic materia medica. He mentions that milk, barley, green gram, Bengal gram, sugarcane juice, cucumber and milk products are good for thyroid health. Citrus products, on the other hand, aggravate thyroid conditions like hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce the level of hormones that are required for the proper functioning of the body's organs. In other thyroid conditions, the gland may produce more hormones or may become swollen or enlarged. Each of these conditions manifests in a wide variety of symptoms. Thyroid hormones are essential for metabolism, and like all other hormones, thyroid hormones must be produced and released in certain quantities. Their excess or deficiency has a detrimental effect on various organs and their functioning. Ayurvedic treatment for specific thyroid problems involves the use of a powerful herb, Kaanchanara (Bauhinia veriegata). Another herb of the genus of East Indian and African trees that yields balsamic products known as guggulu (Commiphora mukul) is widely used to address symptoms of thyroid problems like weight gain. Among other herbs, jatamansi, shilajita (purified asphaltum), gokshura and punarnava are also used for their curative properties and management of symptoms associated with malfunctioning thyroid. Yoga and Ayurveda complement each other. Yoga regimen relies on advice contained in Ayurvedic literature. Similarly, yoga postures that help restore thyroid function are an integral part of Ayurvedic treatment for thyroid disease. Herbal and dietary advice and massage therapy based on Ayurvedic principles are becoming increasingly popular in the US and Europe. In reality, this ancient Indian medicine can only enter this part of the world through a back door, as medical practices in the US and Europe are governed by strict regulations that are difficult to meet. Alternative medicine like Ayurveda lags behind due to the lack of adequate research and absence of institutional support. However, Ayurvedic medicine has a strong historical background of effective treatment of various diseases including thyroid disease. Hypothyroidism and Ayurvedic Treatment: The thyroid gland acts as the body's thermostat, controlling the speed beyond its basic ticking. Undiagnosed thyroid problems may be the underlying cause in many recurring or unresponsive health problems. Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland fails to function adequately, resulting in low thyroid hormone levels in the body. During childhood, hypothyroidism can cause retardation of normal growth. Hypothyroidism has many causes. Iodine deficiency is the major potential cause in our country. Certain medical treatments like surgery or radiation to the thyroid gland, or certain medications like lithium and phenylbutazone, may also cause the condition. Failure of the pituitary gland or hypothalamus to stimulate the thyroid gland properly can cause a condition known as secondary hypothyroidism. Some people with goiter (enlargement of the thyroid gland) also have hypothyroidism. Goiter may be caused by iodine deficiency, eating foods that contain goiter-causing substances, or other disorders that interfere with thyroid hormone production.
Symptoms:
Slowness of bodily functions is the criterion for diagnosis. Symptoms include depressed muscular activity, slow pulse, low blood pressure, hoarseness of voice, recurrent infections, constipation, irritability, sensitivity to cold, depression, decreased immune function with drooping and swollen eyes, puffy face, increased allergic reactions, fatigue, weight gain, headaches, hair loss, dull hair, dry skin due to lack of sweating, heavy and painful periods, and premenstrual tension. Guidelines: Consume foods that are naturally high in iodine such as fish, fish shell, white onion, vegetables and root vegetables such as potatoes, asparagus, etc. (the iodine content of vegetables, fruits and cereals depends on the iodine content of the soil). Avoid foods that naturally slow down the functioning of the thyroid such as cabbage, mustard greens, cauliflower, corn, sweet potatoes, and spinach. Avoid sulfa drugs and antihistamines, which aggravate this problem. Also, increase daily consumption of foods high in vitamin B complex such as whole grains, raw nuts and seeds, and vitamin A rich foods like black, green and yellow vegetables. Ayurvedic Treatment: Minor cases respond to herbs such as Kaanchanaara or Punarnava. The bark of Kaanchanaara or the whole plant Punarnava can be taken as a decoction, twice daily on an empty stomach in a dose of 30 ml. Kaanchanaara guggulu and Punarnawaadi guggulu, which contain these herbs are popularly used for the treatment of this disease. Take two tablets, twice daily. Associated constipation can be alleviated with the intake of Triphala choorna at bed time. Take a teaspoon of it with warm water. Weight gain is treated with Shilaajit and calcium deficiency is corrected with Mukta-pishti or Pravaala-panchaamrit. Treatment of thyroid disease is not a rapid one and there is often recurrence of symptoms, but these should gradually become less clear with proper diet control and proper treatment. Sensible exercise, rest and strict adherence to diet and medications are essential for complete recovery. Note: As we are all genetically different with different constitutions and patterns, we respond to treatment in many different ways. Therefore standard Ayurvedic treatments are always individually tailored. This article is intended for information only. It is not a substitute for standard medical diagnosis, personalized Ayurvedic treatment or qualified Ayurvedic physician. For specific treatment, always consult with a qualified Ayurvedic physician. Ayurvedic Treatment for Thyroid Disorders: Diet and Other Remedies: According to Charaka, goiter does not strike those who take milk in sufficient quantity. Also, old rice, barley, moong dal, gram dal, cucumber, sugar juice, and milk products are recommended for a goiter patient. Sour and heavy substances are contraindicated. Herbs for Thyroid: kanchanara bauhinia veriegata (purple mountain ebony) is specific for the proper functioning of thyroid. Among other herbs jatamansi, brahmi, guggulu and shilajita are also useful. Gokshura, Punarnava are useful herbs. Home Remedies for Thyroid: A fine paste of vegetable jalakumbhi (Pistia straticies) applied on the affected part helps in reducing the swelling. The juice obtained from jalakumbhi should be given in doses of 22 grams a day. This increases the amount of iodine deficiency, one of the factors responsible for the disease, according to allopathy. Coconut oil offers a lot of promise to those suffering from hypothyroidism and slow metabolism today. It is a known fact that the fatty acid chains in coconut oil, known as medium chain fatty acids (MCFAs) or medium chain triglycerides (MCTs), offer amazing health benefits and are not found abundantly in nature where coconut oil is out. MCTs help hypothyroid sufferers recover from sluggish metabolism in the body. Ayurvedic Medicine for Thyroid: Buy following medicines from our online medicine store - Guggulu Kanchanar, Mahayogaraj Guggulu Chandraprabha Vati Mahatiktak Ghrita Yoga for Thyroid Diseases: Long before medical science was ever aware of the existence of the thyroid gland, yogis had devised practices, which not only maintained healthy glands and metabolism, but were also part of a system of knowledge. Sarvangasna (Shoulder Stand) is the most suitable and effective posture for the thyroid gland. A heavy pressure is placed on the gland by this powerful posture. As the thyroid has one of the largest blood supplies of any organ of the body, this pressure has dramatic effects on its function, improving circulation and squeezing out stagnant secretions. After Sarvangasana, we should perform Matsyasana, and from Sarvangasana we can practice Halasana. All these practices result positively in better health of the thyroid gland. At the same time, all these practices should be avoided in severe thyroitoxicosis, physical debility or a goiter that is greatly enlarged, where medical treatment is obviously to be given the first line of treatment. However, adding iodine to the diet is once again the first obvious step. Other effective postures include Surya Namskara, head and neck exercises, yoga mudras, Pavamuktasana with emphasis on Suptavajrasana and all backward bending postures. Pranayama for Thyroid Diseases: The most effective pranayama for thyroid problems is Ujjayi. It acts on the throat region and its relaxing and stimulating effects are most probably due to the stimulation of ancient reflex pathways within the throat region, which are controlled by the brainstem and hypothalamus. This practice also gives us direct access to pranic and mental cleansing work, the foundation of metabolic activity. Nadi shodhana pranayama is useful in rebalancing the metabolism.
