Consultation
Thyroid
Break up with Thyroid Problems through Ayurveda
DEFINITION | CAUSES | SYMPTOMS | TREATMENTS | TESTIMONIALS | FAQ’S
What is Thyroid?
In Ayurvedic literature, thyroid disorders are often referred to as “Galaganda”, where ‘Gala’ means throat and ‘Ganda’ means a swelling or a lump. It is regarded as a part of the throat chakra, and its appropriate functioning has significance for maintaining metabolic balance, hormone secretion, and overall physical processes. Ayurveda offers a treatment for thyroid disorders due to imbalances in the ‘Vata’ dosha, which is linked to the thyroid. Therefore, Thyroid Ayurvedic treatment will surely provide positive and noticeable results by following a holistic approach by a professional. The treatment helps stabilise the imbalance of hormones by prescribing natural herbal medications and by adopting a healthy lifestyle. Thyroid mainly occurs due to inadequate production of thyroid hormone. Any structural or functional defect of the thyroid gland leads to either over or under-production of hormones. Due to excessive secretion of hormones i.e. over-functioning of the thyroid gland, can lead to ‘hyperthyroidism’ which can further cause weight loss, sleep trouble, and muscle weakness. As opposed to that, when the thyroid gland under-functions i.e. produces less amount of hormones than normal, it may lead to ‘hypothyroidism’ which can result in weight gain, depression, and irregular menstrual cycle.
Thyroid disease affects 200 million people globally, with women at a five to eight times higher risk during hormonal changes like pregnancy and menopause. Ayurveda for thyroid is thought to be beneficial as it being our biggest supporter, provides a very natural way to deal with this health condition.
Types of Thyroid
There are 2 types of Thyroid glands which are classified as:
Hypothyroidism
It is a type of thyroid, that most often impacts women around the globe a ratio is 4-10%. According to Ayurvedic therapy, it is known as a medical condition that is correlated to Agni Dushti. It is understood as an imbalance primarily involving the Kapha dosha, with possible secondary involvement of Vata. It is an Autoimmune disorder with less production of thyroid hormone which causes symptoms such as fatigue and weight gain. Hypothyroidism Ayurvedic treatment often includes dietary modifications, emphasising warming and stimulating foods, lifestyle changes to enhance metabolism, and the use of herbs with properties that support thyroid function. Furthermore, in Ayurvedic treatment of hypothyroidism, stress-reduction methods like yoga and meditation are frequently advised to address possible contributory factors.
Hyperthyroidism
In Ayurveda, Hyperthyroidism is termed as Bhasmak Rog. The hyperthyroidism rate in the population is about 1%. In Ayurveda, it is viewed as an imbalance of Pitta dosha, which governs metabolic processes and heat in the body. When Pitta becomes excessively aggravated, it can lead to an overactive thyroid as hyperthyroidism is an excess secretion of thyroid hormones in the body. Symptoms of this illness include accelerated weight loss, elevated body temperature, irritation, and increased metabolic activity. Ayurvedic treatment for hyperthyroidism involves pacifying Pitta through cooling and soothing measures, including a Pitta-balancing diet, stress management techniques, and the use of herbs with calming properties to restore equilibrium to the doshas.
Causes of Thyroid
The thyroid gland produces hormones to balance the metabolism of the body while preserving overall health in general. To produce these hormones, Iodine is a necessary component required by the thyroid gland. Dysfunctioning of the thyroid gland along with insufficient intake of iodine can cause health illnesses such as goiter and hypothyroidism.
Stress can impact the thyroid gland by influencing its hormone production. Continuously stressing for hours can result in excessive production of stress hormones called cortisol, which can disturb the balance of thyroid hormone production. This imbalance may have additional effects on the metabolic rate of the body and overall general health.
Thyroid disorders often stem from variations in gland function. In the scenario of gland dysfunction, it might be unable to reach the required limit of production, resulting in imbalanced hormone production, worsening hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, and affecting the body’s essential functions related to metabolism.
The thyroid gland gets instruction from a hormone produced by the pituitary gland, to release the required hormones necessary for metabolism processes. While malfunction of the pituitary gland will result in insufficient production of TSH hormone leading to affecting the energy level, metabolism, and other body processes.
Hormonal imbalances is the main reason for the development of thyroid illness which further puts an impact on energy levels and metabolism management. Thyroid diseases affect women more than males. During puberty or the teenage years, pregnancy, and menopause, the hormones normally start to fluctuate, further impacting the functioning of the thyroid.
Symptoms of Thyroid
Fatigue
Secretion of thyroid hormones affects the metabolism of the body, which is how we get energy throughout the day. Without enough hormones, the metabolism of our body slows down causing weight gain and lethargic feeling.
Weight Fluctuations
It is a common symptom in both types of thyroid disorders due to an imbalance in the metabolism of the body. During thyroid dysfunction condition, Hypothyroidism i.e. less secretion of hormones, may lead to explainable gain in weight and as opposed to that, while hyperthyroidism condition i.e. excessive secretion of hormones leads to weight loss.
Mood swings
Thyroid disease can affect mood swings including anxiety or depression. Hypothyroidism, characterized by an under active thyroid, may lead to the feeling of sadness, depression, and lethargy. Conversely, hyperthyroidism, i.e. an overactive thyroid, can cause irritability, anxiety, and restlessness.
Difficulty concentrating
It is a common symptom of thyroid dysfunction, particularly hypothyroidism. This hormonal imbalance condition can cause issues such as brain fog, difficulty focusing, and mild memory or concentration issues.
Muscle weakness
When the thyroid gland produces insufficient thyroid hormones, it can impact the functioning of muscles, leading to weakness and discomfort. This occurs due to a slowed metabolism and reduced energy production within the cells.
Sleep disturbances
It is a common problem particularly due to hypothyroidism. Insufficient thyroid hormone levels may disrupt the body’s circadian rhythm, affecting the sleep cycle. It can cause difficulty falling asleep, and waking up frequently during the night. In addition, individuals with thyroid issues may experience excessive daytime sleepiness.
Ayurvedic Treatment For Thyroid
- Thyroid Ayurvedic treatment involves focusing on balancing the hormones of the body. Through personalized lifestyle adjustments, dietary changes, and herbal remedies, Ayurveda aims to harmonize the doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) to balance the body and mind.
- Herbal remedies are known for their capacity to heal our bodies from the inside. Herbs such as Ashwagandha and Guggul are believed to balance the functioning of the thyroid and reduce inflammation. Triphala which is a blend of three fruits, aids digestion, therefore supporting a healthy metabolism. According to Ayurveda, Incorporating herbs including Punarnava, Pippali, and Varana in your daily diet can contribute to maintaining thyroid balance.
- A balanced diet has always been a necessity to maintain a healthy life. Similarly in Ayurveda, managing thyroid imbalances involves dietary changes to pacify the vata dosha. As advised by Ayurvedic experts, an individual needs to avoid cold, processed food and emphasize warming, nourishing foods such as cooked vegetables, Whole grains, seaweed, Ginger, and soups. Favor spices such as turmeric and cumin can be added as they are rich in healing properties.
- To balance the circadian rhythm of the body, one needs to practice mindfulness as it also helps to manage the production of hormones, which is the root cause of this problem. Establish a daily routine (dinacharya) that aligns with natural rhythms. One also needs to ensure an adequate sleep schedule.
- Meditation and yoga are essential practices that foster inner peace and mindfulness. Gentle Yoga asanas such as Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand), Halasana (Plow Pose), and Matsyasana (Fish Pose) are very effective as they contribute to managing the metabolism process of the body.
- Other practices such as Panchakarma and Abhyanga are two examples of Ayurvedic therapies that detoxify, revitalize, and have a calming effect on the mind and body. Therefore, aiding the imbalance of Vata dosha.
FAQ's
All strenuous exercises like walking, swimming, biking, jogging can be adopted, Ujjai Pranayam also helps in treating thyroid.
Excessive intake of soy rich foods, certain vegetables like cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, spinach, and fruits like sweet potato, peaches, strawberry, etc. Nuts like millets, peanuts, etc. can cause thyroid.
High heart rate, excessive tiredness, anxiety, weight gain or loss, body shakes, and feeling chilly or overheated.
Thyroid malfunction cannot be checked at home. One can get their blood tests to be done to check the value of T3, T4, TSH.
Ayurveda can but along with standard treatment mentioned with dietary changes because Ayurvedic medicines help in treating all complications that occur during hypothyroid.
By avoiding milk, milk products in the diet, having small and frequent meals, exercise daily, avoid carbs in the diet, take Durja herbal powder to cure constipation.
Often heard that coriander is good in thyroid. Yes, it is quite effective due to its mineral content i.e.- It is rich in Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2, Vitamin B3. Consume it daily in the morning.
Missing on to your thyroid dose for the day will not harm your body as Ayurveda works on treating the root cause, not just symptom-based treatment.
No. Excessive salt consumption is not a direct cause of thyroid disorders. Thyroid disorders are typically influenced by factors such as genetics, iodine deficiency, or other underlying health issues, rather than salt intake.
High heart rate, excessive tiredness, anxiety, weight gain or loss, body shakes, and feeling chilly or overheated are the warning signs of thyroid.