Hypothyroidism Treatment in Ayurveda

While analysing the signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism in Ayurvedic view, we note the involvement of all Srotas. The Kapha dosha and Vata dosha vruddhi is elicited and Pitta dosha kshaya is seen. Though some physicians consider it as a Sthanika vyadhi under Galaganda roga, it’s Dushti lakshanas are seen in whole body. If we try to have a keen insight to the pathogenesis of hypothyroidism according to the principles of Ayurveda, we find that it is basically caused due to dysfunctioning of the Agni. Hypofunctioning of Jatharagni, which in turn, affects Dhatvagni, eventually, brings out pathological sequence & ultimately, the diseased condition developed. Symptoms of Hypothyroidism-The symptoms of hypothyroidism are so nonspecific in nature and they mimic many symptoms of other diseases. So it often remains undiagnosed or misdiagnosed. Weight gain, mood disturbances, fatigue, tiredness,
sleeplessness,lethargy, slow memory, intellect and thought, menstrual irregularities, cold intolerance, dry rough skin, thin brittle hair, hair loss, muscle stiffness, aching, cramps, weakness and fatigue, constipation, hoarseness of voice, goiter etc.The symptoms are so
diversified because of the action of thyroid hormones on many vital functions of our body.

Functions of Thyroid Hormones

• Growth & development

• Metabolism- stimulates metabolism

• Oxygen consumption & heat production

• Regulates nervous system

• Maintains normal cardiac activity

• Regulates skeletal muscle function

• Maintains Lung volume and breathing capacity

• Normal cutaneous circulation & secretion of glands,

• Helps in controlling normal bowel movements

• Increases utilization & clearance of vitamins, carbohydrate, fat and protein metabolism ,action on sleep,

• Helps in normal sexual development & reproductive function.

Ayurvedic View Of Hypothyroidism

The analysis of symptoms of hypothyroidism helps us to identify it as Kapha Pradhana tridosha Vyadhi with Rasa and Medo dhatu dushti predominantly. According to the ayurvedic principles, pathogenesis of hypothyroidism is caused due to dysfunction of Agni. Hypofunctioning of Jatharagni, which in turn, affects Dhatvagni, eventually, brings out pathological sequence &  ultimately, the diseased condition develops. Kapha -Vata Dosha Vriddhi and Pitta Kshaya results due to Agnimandya. Dhatwagnimandya especially Rasa and Medo Dhatwagni Mandhya contributes to this condition.

There is no direct mention of thyroid gland in ayurveda. But a disease by the name Galaganda is mentioned in samhitas. The earliest description of neck swelling is found in atharva veda by the name Apachi. Charaka first described about the disease under the 20
varieties of kapha vikaras.Most of the causes mentioned in Apachi and Galgand are kapha aggravating.

Ayurvedic Treatment Of Hypothyroidism

The objective of treatment should be to address the problem at its root by regulating the thyroid function and decreasing inflammation. 
Srotoshodhana (cleansing of the macro and microchannels), Agnideepana (stimulation of the digestion and metabolism), Pachana (digestion) and Vatanulomana (proper regulation of excretory system) are the main principles of treatment.

If the condition is chronic, treatment usually starts with Vaman followed by vasti treatment. Ayurvedic medicines are given according to the condition of patient with significant results in symptoms and test reports of thyroid hormones. In females, Hypothyroidism is often associated with PCOD, Infertility etc. which has to be treated together. Patient need not to take the medicine for whole life. Treatment usually lasts for 6 months to one year.

For the best Ayurvedic treatment of Hypothyroidism – Dr. Rani Gupta, M.D. ( Ay. Gyne) ( B.H.U.) Gold Medalist, Ayurvedic Gynaecologist at SKK Ayurveda and Panchkarma, New Delhi has an experience of more than 20 years in treating hypothyroid patients.