Thyroid Treatment in Ayurveda - Medicine, Prevention Guide

The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped endocrine gland producing hormones that control the body's temperature, heartbeat and metabolism. For the proper functioning of the body, the gland must produce the hormone at the optimum level. However, when there is an under-secretion or over-secretion of the hormone, it may lead to various thyroid diseases. 

The two thyroid conditions that most commonly affect individuals are hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. 

1. Hypothyroidism: Here the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. The following are the symptoms of hypothyroidism:
   1. Weight gain
   2. Slowed heart rate
   3. Difficulty in cold tolerance
   4. Heavy or irregular periods
2. Hyperthyroidism: Here the thyroid gland secretes too much of the thyroid hormones. The following are the symptoms of hyperthyroidism:
   1. Weight loss
   2. Rapid heartbeat
   3. Difficulty in heat tolerating
   4. Fatigue

Although there is no specific treatment for these symptoms, you can effectively treat them with ayurvedic medicine for the thyroid.

Ayurveda is known as the ‘science of longevity’ because it provides a comprehensive system for living a long and healthy life. It provides programmes for body rejuvenation through diet and nutrition. 

Ayurveda science identifies three doshas - Vata, Pitta and Kapha as the driving factors of good health. Any imbalance(s) could be one of the leading causes of your thyroid disorders or some other illnesses. 

Ayurvedic medicine employs a comprehensive approach that combines physical activity, dietary modifications and lifestyle adjustments to avoid disease. It includes the consumption of foods like green vegetables, avoiding sugar, getting Vitamin D, etc. But you should always consult your doctor first as some foods are prohibited as well. 

If you or any of your family members are suffering from thyroid problems, you can control the condition with ayurvedic medicine for the thyroid, but it shouldn't be substituted with the therapy prescribed by their respective doctors.

Ayurvedic medicine is one of the world's oldest traditional medical systems. It is now a popular form of alternative medicine. To prevent thyroid disease, Ayurvedic medicine employs a holistic approach that includes exercise, diet, and lifestyle changes. Hence, it has a list of benefits.

1. Ayurvedic methods help in overall boosting the immune system and achieving a healthy body.
2. This kind of remedy helps in balancing hormones along with the absorption of necessary nutrients.
3. Also, the various yogic postures — asanas and pranayama help in relieving stress, which is one of the major reasons for thyroid disorders. 
4. Last but not least Ayurveda does not focus on just managing the disease, rather it plans to cure it fully. Hence, you don’t have to keep up with the treatment your whole life.

Thyroid treatment in Ayurveda aims to eliminate the doshas responsible for thyroid disorders. It is believed in Ayurveda that a balanced functioning of the three doshas will keep your body healthy and disease free. Ayurveda promotes yoga asanas, pranayama, etc. to alleviate stress and exhaustion as well as thyroid disorders.

There are several thyroid cures in Ayurveda. Some of these include:

1. Ayurvedic Medications: Herbs and Medications
2. Yoga Asanas for Thyroid

Also, as part of the Ayurvedic treatment for thyroid, whole foods, such as fruits and vegetables, gets recommended. Also, Ayurveda suggests that an overall healthy diet will help you prevent nutrient shortages that could lead to an increase in health problems.

Ayurveda has some medicines which have proven to be quite effective in treating thyroid. Following are some of the key Ayurvedic ingredients used in Ayurvedic medicines for thyroid:

1. Guggulu: Guggulu has been used for many years to treat thyroid issues. It helps in iodine intake by the thyroid gland and thereby aids in hormone production. Guggulu also assists in weight loss, which is essentially linked to thyroid problems.
2. Ashwagandha: Ashwagandha has been used in Ayurveda to support immune system enhancement and to reduce stress. Moreover, it may assist in balanced hormone synthesis and thus have a favourable impact on the thyroid gland.
3. Shankhapushpi: Shankhapushpi has been used in Ayurveda to treat various diseases, including thyroid problems, and is thought to have a relaxing impact on the body and mind. It is believed to help control hormone production and lessen symptoms like weariness and depression.
4. Triphala: Triphala, a combination of three fruits, is frequently used in Ayurveda to enhance digestion and cleanse the body. Moreover, it may assist in balancing hormone synthesis and have a favourable impact on the thyroid gland.
5. Amalaki: Amalaki, which is said to have a purifying impact on the body, has been used in Ayurveda to treat several ailments, including thyroid problems. It is believed to lessen symptoms like weariness, anxiety and depression by regulating hormone production.

Asanas are a crucial part of Ayurveda and related treatments. They are very effective for relaxing your mind and body. They stimulate hormone secretion and help in maintaining good health throughout your life. Here are some of the common asanas you can try at home that will help in keeping your thyroid in proper check:

1. Halasana (Plough Pose): It is a yoga posture that can be beneficial for thyroid health. The pose involves stretching the neck and shoulders, which can stimulate the thyroid gland and improve circulation in the area. Here is a step-by-step guide for performing Halasana:
   1. Lie flat on your back with your arms by your sides and palms facing down.
   2. Inhale and use your abdominal muscles to lift your legs off the ground, raising them to a 90-degree angle.
   3. Exhale and use your hands to support your lower back as you lift your hips off the ground.
   4. Extend your legs over your head and touch your toes to the floor behind you.
   5. Hold the pose for 30 seconds to 1 minute, breathing deeply.
   6. To release, slowly roll your spine down onto the ground, one vertebra at a time.
2. Matsyasana (Fish Pose): This yoga asana is also one of the most effective yoga asanas for the thyroid. The pose involves opening up the throat and chest area, which can help stimulate the thyroid gland and improve blood flow to the area.  Here is a step-by-step guide for performing Matsyasana:
   1. Lie flat on your back with your legs straight and your arms by your sides.
   2. Bring your hands underneath your hips, palms facing down.
   3. Press your elbows and forearms into the ground and lift your chest and head off the ground, arching your back.
   4. Tilt your head back and bring the top of your head to the ground.
   5. Hold the pose for 15-30 seconds, breathing deeply.
   6. To release, lower your head and chest back to the ground, and slowly release your hands from under your hips.
3. Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Bend Pose): This yoga posture helps in aiding thyroid health. This pose can help improve blood flow to the thyroid gland, which can help improve thyroid function. Here is a step-by-step guide for performing Paschimottanasana:
   1. Sit on the floor with your legs straight out in front of you and your hands resting on your thighs.
   2. Take a deep breath and lift your arms up above your head.
   3. As you exhale, bend forward at the hips and reach for your toes or ankles. If you are not able to reach your toes, you can use a yoga strap or towel to hold onto.
   4. Keep your back straight and your chin tucked in towards your chest.
   5. Hold the pose for 30 seconds to 1 minute, breathing deeply.
   6. To release, slowly come back up to a seated position, keeping your back straight.
4. Sarvanagsana (Shoulder Stand Pose): This is a popular yoga asana that is believed to be beneficial for thyroid health. Here is some information on how this pose can be performed. 
   1. Lie down on your back with your arms by your sides and palms facing down.
   2. Lift your legs up towards the ceiling, keeping them straight and together.
   3. Use your hands to support your hips and lift them off the ground.
   4. Bring your legs overhead, bringing your toes towards the ground behind your head.
   5. Straighten your spine and support your back with your hands.
   6. Hold the pose for a few breaths before slowly releasing and lowering your legs back down to the ground.
5. Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation): It is a series of yoga poses that can benefit the entire body, including the thyroid gland. The sequence involves twelve yoga postures, which are performed in a specific order to create a flow of movement.Surya Namaskar stimulates the thyroid gland, boosts metabolism, increases circulation and reduces stress. Here is how to perform Surya Namaskar:
   1. Begin by standing at the front of your mat with your feet together and your hands in prayer position.
   2. Inhale and raise your arms up overhead, looking up towards your hands.
   3. Exhale and fold forward, bringing your hands to the ground beside your feet.
   4. Inhale and step your right foot back into a lunge position, keeping your left foot planted and your hands on the ground.
   5. Exhale and step your left foot back into the plank position.
   6. Lower your body down to the ground, keeping your elbows tucked in close to your body.
   7. Inhale and lift your chest up into a cobra pose.
   8. Exhale and tuck your toes under, lifting your hips up into a downward-facing dog pose.
   9. Inhale and step your right foot forward into a lunge position, keeping your left foot planted and your hands on the ground.
   10. Exhale and step your left foot forward to meet your right foot, folding forward over your legs.
   11. Inhale and rise up to standing, reaching your arms up overhead.
   12. Exhale and bring your hands back to the prayer position at the front of your mat.

Natural therapy is considered a boon and a safer option when it is about curing an ailment related to the thyroid. Following are some of the most effective remedies for thyroid treatment in Ayurveda for the prevention and management of thyroid disorders:

1. Marine Phytoplankton: Sea plants like phytoplankton are rich sources of minerals like iodine, which is necessary to control thyroid functioning. Seaweed, kelp, arame, hijiki, kombu and nori are a few marine vegetables that thyroid patients must try.
2. Green Vegetables: This Ayurvedic treatment includes kale, Brussels sprouts, broccoli and cauliflower. While these vegetables are full of vitamins and minerals, it is advisable to avoid consuming them raw if you have a thyroid disorder. This is because these veggies contain goitrogens, which, when consumed in large doses, might interfere with thyroid function.
3. Vitamin D: One of the main causes of thyroid problems is a lack of vitamin D in the body. Exposing your body to the morning sun is a simple technique to handle this deficiency. Early-morning outdoor exercise can also improve immunity and control calcium metabolism. 
4. Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar helps the body cleanse and maintain a healthy acid-alkaline balance. To benefit the most from this Ayurvedic remedy, combine two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar with a little honey in warm water and drink daily.
5. Practice Pranayama: Pranayama is recommended for thyroid patients because it can balance ‘Vata’ in the body and assist in reducing thyroid issues.
6. Practice Abhyanga: Abhyanga calms the ‘vata’ and aids in lowering the body fat you tend to develop due to thyroid malfunction. According to Ayurveda, abhyanga, or lubricating your body with oil, can be a very effective treatment for thyroid issues.
7. Vata Pacifying Diet: According to Ayurveda, an increase in the ‘Vata dosha’ in the body might cause thyroid imbalance. Make sure you're eating plenty of fibre-rich foods, such as bananas, spinach, beans, and legumes, to balance the ‘Vata’. 

Ayurveda cure can take time in comparison to the allopathic treatment of the thyroid. With asanas, pranayama and daily exercises, the process may seem long and tedious. But it helps in the long run. Here are some tips to remember when undergoing Ayurvedic treatment for thyroid:

1. Consult an Ayurvedic Practitioner: It is important to consult an experienced Ayurvedic practitioner who can determine the type of thyroid disorder you have and create a personalized treatment plan for you.
2. Follow a Healthy Diet: A healthy diet is essential for treating thyroid disorders. You should focus on eating a diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid processed and refined foods, as well as foods that are high in sugar and unhealthy fats.
3. Exercise Regularly: Exercise is an important part of any Ayurvedic treatment plan for thyroid disorders. Yoga, walking, and swimming are all good options. However, you should avoid high-intensity exercises that can stress your body and exacerbate your symptoms.
4. Take Ayurvedic Herbs and Supplements: Ayurvedic herbs and supplements can help regulate thyroid function and alleviate symptoms. Some commonly used herbs and supplements for thyroid disorders include Ashwagandha, Guggul, and Triphala.
5. Practice Stress-Management Techniques: Stress can worsen thyroid symptoms, so it is important to practice stress-management techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and yoga.

Lifestyle Changes

One of the main reasons behind hormonal issues is your lifestyle. With some changes in it, you can solve half of your problems. So, here are some suggestions:

1. Consume minimal sugar or if possible stop completely.
2. Focus on more vitamins and minerals intake throughout the day.
3. An increase in muscle strength aids in weight loss caused by thyroid disorders.
4. Limit your consumption of alcohol.
5. Stop eating high-processed, high-fibre food, frozen meat; vegetables like cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, etc.
6. A good sleep at night and dealing with stress in a healthy way are a must.

While medication and treatment can help in temporary relief from the disease, a better lifestyle keeps hormonal imbalances at bay. It also gives you a longer lifespan.

Ayurveda is one of the oldest medicinal systems in today's world. With the help of Ayurvedic therapies, you can now manage various ailments. Although there is no proper evidence to support the efficacy of Ayurveda treatment for thyroid diseases, with the use of Ayurvedic remedies, your overall health may be enhanced. 

Furthermore, with its emphasis on healthy nutrition, exercise and other lifestyle modifications, Ayurvedic therapy can be a beneficial addition to conventional allopathic medical procedures. However, it is crucial to remember that while Ayurvedic remedies for the thyroid can ease the symptoms of thyroid issues, they shouldn't be utilised in place of standard treatments like medicine.

Also, speaking with a healthcare expert is usually advisable before beginning any new treatment for a thyroid condition. Here the experts of HexaHealth can come to your rescue, and they will help you to find the ideal course of treatment as per your body type and help you get in touch with doctors.

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