Thyroid

The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland located in your neck, just below your Adam's apple. It plays a vital role in regulating your metabolism by producing hormones that influence various bodily functions, including heart rate, digestion, and energy levels.

There are two main types of thyroid disorders-

• Hyperthyroidism: When the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone, leading to an overactive metabolism. As per ayurveda, it is associated with aggravation of Pitta dosha, associated with heat and inflammation.
• Hypothyroidism: When the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormone, resulting in an underactive metabolism. As per ayurveda, Hypothyroidism is a Vata- Kapha Pradhana Vyadhi along with vitiation of Agni characterized by sluggishness and water retention.

• Autoimmunity- In autoimmune diseases like Graves' and Hashimoto's, the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland.
• Genetics- Family history can increase your risk of developing certain thyroid conditions.
• Iodine Imbalance- Both iodine deficiency and excessive iodine intake can disrupt thyroid function.
• Inflammation- Chronic inflammation in the body can sometimes affect the thyroid gland.
• Impaired Agni (Digestive Fire): Ayurveda places great emphasis on Agni, the digestive fire responsible for the transformation and assimilation of nutrients.
• Toxins and Ama: Ayurveda recognizes the accumulation of toxins and ama (undigested waste) in the body as a factor in thyroid disorders. Ama can block the energy channels and disrupt the proper functioning of the thyroid gland.

Treatment and Management:

Dietary Changes -

For Hypothyroidism -

• Increase Metabolism: Include foods that boost metabolism, such as ginger, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
• Whole Grains: Consume barley, millet, and quinoa.
• Vegetables: Eat cruciferous vegetables in moderation only (cooked rather than raw) and include leafy greens and bitter vegetables.
• Avoid: Dairy products, soy, refined sugars, and processed foods.

For Hyperthyroidism -

• Cooling Foods: Include cooling and calming foods such as cucumber, melons, leafy greens, and coriander.
• Whole Grains: Eat rice, wheat, and oats.
• Avoid: Spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol, and foods that stimulate Pitta dosha (such as sour and salty foods).

Herbal Remedies-

For Hypothyroidism-

• Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera): Supports thyroid function and boosts metabolism.
• Kanchanar: helps to balance Kapha and promotes the healthy function of Agni (digestive fire) because of its Kapha balancing nature.
• Guggulu (Commiphora mukul): Helps regulate thyroid function.
• Brahmi (Bacopa Monnieri): Supports cognitive function and reduces stress.
• Kanchanar (Bauhinia Variegata): Traditionally used in thyroid-related conditions.

For Hyperthyroidism-

• Brahmi (Bacopa Monnieri): Calms the nervous system and balances Pitta.
• Shankhapushpi (Convolvulus Pluricaulis): Reduces anxiety and stress.
• Neem (Azadirachta indica): Helps to purify the blood and reduce inflammation.
• Triphala: A combination of three fruits that supports digestion and detoxification.

Therapies:

Panchakarma - This is like a deep cleaning for your body. It includes different treatments like-

• Virechana (laxatives): Gets rid of toxins through your bowels.
• Vamana (vomiting therapy): Removes excess phlegm and toxins from your stomach and intestines.
• Basti (enemas): Cleans out your colon.

Naturopathy -

• Hydrotherapy uses water as a healing agent, with its effectiveness depending on the location, pressure, temperature, and timing of treatment. It can improve thyroid function, reduce thyroid antibodies, and treat localized neck symptoms such as hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, a lump in the throat, and thyroid nodules.
• Mud therapy helps absorb impurities and toxins from the body, allowing the thyroid glands to function normally. When toxins accumulate, thyroid activity decreases, leading to reduced secretion of T3 and T4 hormones, which can cause tiredness, excess sleep, and other symptoms.

Yoga asanas -

• Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand)
• Halasana
• Matsyasana
• Setu Bandhasana (Bridge Pose)
• Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose)
• Ustrasana (Camel Pose)
• Marjaryasana-Bitilasana (Cat-Cow Pose)
• Dhanurasana (Bow Pose)

Home Remedies:

For Hypothyroidism-

• Coriander Water: Soak 1 tsp coriander seeds in 1 glass of water overnight. Boil it in the morning until it gets half, strain and have the water.
• Ginger Tea: Drink ginger tea to boost metabolism and support digestion.

For Hyperthyroidism-

• Coconut Oil: Use coconut oil in cooking to support thyroid health.
• Amla Juice: Drink amla (Indian gooseberry) juice to reduce inflammation and balance Pitta dosha.