Hypothyroidism: An Ayurvedic Approach

The narration of hypothyroidism in Ayurveda it is the same as in modern medicines. Condition caused by an underactive thyroid gland that produces small amounts of thyroid hormone and this can be caused by an iodine deficiency or a failure of the thyroid gland due to a malfunction of the pituitary gland.

The disease is often overlooked for a long time as the symptoms present in patients are not that dangerous and can be ignored by anyone. Depressions, fatigue, hair loss, dry and cold skin few are the ones that are often ignored by the patient.

Hypothyroidism in Ayurveda is well described by the great physician named ‘Charaka’. He said it does not attack those who consume adequate amounts of milk, old rice, barley, green grams, Bengal grams, sugar cane juice, cucumber and other dairy products. These are the recommended foods also in current cases. Ayurveda says that acidic substances should not be consumed as they can aggravate the disease condition.

There are many Ayurvedic herbs that are prescribed for hypothyroidism. They regulate the thyroid hormone and restore its functionality. These herbs are under investigation and many of them have been shown to be very beneficial for treat thyroid conditions.

Ayurvedic herbs are generally well tolerated and free from side effects and this is the reason why Ayurveda is now one of the most famous health sciences that has caught everyone’s attention. These herbs can also be considered as daily health supplements. Many of the herbs that we can find in the kitchen and the rest are available in the herbal / Ayurvedic store in various forms, such as pills, tablets, capsules, decoctions, powders, extracts and natural juices.

Some of the herbs are described below and are still practiced as Ayurvedic treatment;

Kaanchanara (Bauhinia veriegata) – This is known as purple mountain ebony and probably the most powerful drug in the Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia for treating any type of thyroid problem. This herb is available in pill or tablet form.

Guggulu (Commiphora mukul) – This is the drug that is widely used in current Ayurvedic practice. This is well known for its calorie-burning properties and is therefore used abundantly to reduce weight, that is, obesity. Hypothyroidism is closely related to obesity, and therefore this herb is extremely helpful in treating the condition. It is available in tablet, pill, and capsule form.

Punarnava (boerhaavia diffusa Linn) – This herb belongs to the category of diuretics. This is an excellent remedy for treating swelling or inflammation throughout the body. Since hypothyroidism has one of the symptoms of swelling and numbness throughout the body, Punarnava can be very beneficial in treating such conditions. It is a very good tonic and can also be used for general health.

There are many formulas available to treat hypothyroidism. Ayurveda always suggests patients to seek internal medication by following a strict diet as prescribed and advised by the Ayurvedic physician. Any of the diseases shakes the three bodily humors called Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Ayurvedic medicine and diet will restore these three humors and thus eliminate disease.

Related article:

Hypothyroidism: the breadth of nature can help you

Different ways to treat hypothyroidism