Ayurvedic Approach to Treat Hypothyroidism!!!

Hypothyroidism is a condition characterized by abnormally low thyroid hormone production. There are many disorders that result in hypothyroidism. These disorders may directly or indirectly involve the thyroid gland. Because thyroid hormone affects growth, development, and many cellular processes, inadequate thyroid hormone has widespread consequences for the body.

Ayurvedic treatment for Hypothyroidism

The Ayurvedic treatment of hypothyroidism is aimed at controlling the symptoms and treating the basic pathology of the disease. For inflammation of the thyroid gland, medicines like Yograj-Guggulu, Panch-Tikta-Ghrut-Guggulu, Arogya-Vardhini, Chandraprabha-Vati, Maha-Manjishthadi Qwath,Kachnaar-Guggulu, Brahmi-Guggulu, Triphala-Guggulu and Medohar-Guggulu are used. Panchakarma treatment comprising of Virechan, Niruha and Anuvasan basti, Nasyam, etc is also used along with the medicines to treat hypothyroidism.

Ayurvedic herbs useful in treating hypothyroidism

Kaanchanara (Bauhinia veriegata) - This is known as purple mountain ebony and probably most powerful drug in Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia for treating any type of thyroid problems.

Guggulu (Commiphora mukul) - This is the drug that is used widely in present Ayurvedic practice. This is well known for its calorie burning properties and therefore used abundantly in reducing weight i.e. obesity. Hypothyroidism is closely related with obesity, and therefore, this herb is extremely useful treating the condition.

Punarnava (boerhaavia diffusa) - This herb falls in the category of diuretic. This is an excellent remedy for treating swelling or inflammation from all over the body. Since hypothyroidism has one of the symptoms of swelling and numbness all over the body, Punarnava can be very beneficial for treating such conditions.

The other useful herbs used in Ayurveda for treating hypothyroidism include Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), Behada (Terminalia bellerica), Saariva (Hemidesmus indicus), Nimba (Azadirachta indica), Patol (Tricosanthe dioica) and Patha (Cissampelos pareira), Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi), Gokshura (Tribulus Terrestris), etc.

Ayurvedic diet for those suffering from thyroid disorder

According to Ayurveda, taking adequate quantities of milk can help in preventing disorders of thyroid gland. Also rice, barley, Bengal gram, moong dal and cucumber are recommended for patients suffering from any thyroid disorders. Coconut oil which contains medium chain fatty acids, which help in improving body metabolism, is good for those suffering from thyroid disorders. They should of course avoid heavy and sour foods.

Yogasanas and Pranayama for Hypothyroidism

Apart from all this, yogasanas like Sarvangasana, Halasana, Suryanamaskara, Suptavajrasana are found helpful, though Pranayama, especially Ujjayi Pranayama has been found to be very effective in treating thyroid problems.