How to Treat Hypothyroidism Naturally with Herbal Remedies
What is Hypothyroidism
Thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland at the front of our neck which releases hormones to help our body to use and regulate energy. This gland is responsible for providing energy to every organ in our body, controls various functions like heartbeat and digestion. If there is depletion of thyroid hormones in our body, natural functions will begin to slow down and develop a condition, named Hypothyroidism.
Hypothyroidism/Underactive thyroid is an endocrinal system disorder in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone
Causes of Hypothyroidism
Here are some causes to develop this disorder –
- Autoimmune disease
- Congenital disease
- Deficiency of iodine
- Hyperthyroidism treatment
- Pregnancy
- Pituitary disorder
- Radiation therapy
- Surgery of thyroid
Clinical features of Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism can present with following signs and symptoms
- Cold intolerance
- Dry and coarse hair
- Frequent muscle cramps
- Hair loss
- Rough and pale skin
- Sudden weight gain
- Weakness and fatigue
How to diagnose Hypothyroidism
It can be diagnosed by following diagnostic methods
- From your signs & symptoms
- Simple blood test (Level of TSH is raised and the level of T3 is low)
Complications of Hypothyroidism
If this disorder is not managed early, then it can lead to various complications like
- Birth defects
- Goiter
- Heart problems
- Infertility
- Mental problem
- Myxoedema
- Peripheral neuropathy
Facts about Hypothyroidism
Some facts about Hypothyroidism are as below
- Hypothyroidism is a fairly common condition.
- The disease is predominantly seen with increased age.
- Women are more likely to have Hypothyroidism than men.
- Hashimoto’s disease is one of the most common causes of an underactive thyroid gland.
Ayurvedic perspective of Hypothyroidism
According to Ayurveda, the function of the thyroid gland and the metabolic processes carried out by the thyroid hormone are controlled by the Pitta (Agni) dosha. According to Ayurveda, in Hypothyroidism Pitta dosha is covered by Kapha Dosha which results in diminished cellular metabolism.
Ayurvedic approach to Hypothyroidism
Ayurvedic treatment of any disease involves treating the disease in a natural and safer way to manage its symptoms. Ayurvedic treatment of hypothyroidism is mainly aimed at removing the Kapha dosha covered with pitta dosha and to help pitta dosha to perform its functions normally. The factors such as healthy diet, lifestyle, regular exercise, and herbal remedies are also very helpful in treating this disorder
1. Diet for Hypothyroidism -It is as follows
A. Foods to avoid
These below-mentioned foods should be avoided
- Soy foods – Tofu, tempeh, edamame etc.
- Fruits and starchy plants – Cassava, Sweet potatoes, peaches, strawberries etc.
- Certain vegetables – Broccoli, Cabbage, cauliflower, kale, spinach, Brussels, sprouts etc.
- Nuts and seeds – Peanuts, Millet, pine nuts etc
- Gluten rich diet – Bread, pasta, cereals, beer etc.
- Beverages – Coffee, green tea and alcohol
B. Foods to Eat
These below-mentioned foods should be included in your diet
- Eggs – Whole egg is useful
- Fruits and starchy plants – Berries, bananas, oranges, tomatoes
- Meats and fish – All meats, including lamb, beef, chicken, salmon, tuna etc.
- Gluten-free diet – Rice, buckwheat, quinoa, chia seeds, and flaxseed.
- Dairy products – Milk, cheese, yogurt.
- Beverages – Water and other non-caffeinated beverages.
2. Herbal remedies for Hypothyroidism by PlanetAyurveda
Planet Ayurveda offers the best herbal treatment of Hypothyroidism in the form of Hypothyroid care pack. All these herbal remedies are pure, natural, vegetarian, chemical and preservative-free. These are free from any side effect and can be used for a prolonged period of time. These products are prepared by using the standardized herbal extract of the ancient herbs and prepared under the direct supervision of MD Ayurvedic Doctors by strictly following the principles of Ayurveda
Hypothyroid care pack includes
1. Guggulipid Capsules
Guggulipid capsules are prepared by using the pure standardized extract of Guggul (Commiphora mukul), which has been used in Ayurveda since ancient times. Guggul is known to have a strong effect on the thyroid gland, decreases pain, inflammation, increases the metabolism of fats, regulates the functioning of the thyroid gland and helps in improving the condition of hypothyroidism. It also helps in managing weight.
Dosage – 2 capsules twice daily with plain water after meals.
2. Gotukola Capsules
These capsules are prepared from the standardized extract of the leaves of the Gotukola Plant (Centella asiatica). Gotukola has a natural action on blood circulation and is very useful in managing stress, anxiety, fatigue, skin dryness, and constipation helps to restore the hormonal balance.
Dosage – 2 capsules twice daily with plain water after meal.
3. Chandraprabha Vati –
It is an excellent herbal product by Planet Ayurveda and is prepared by using the special combination of 37 ingredients, out of which Shilajit (Asphaltum) and Guggul (Commiphora mukul) are the two main ingredients. This product supports the healthy functioning of the thyroid by reducing the swelling and pain in the thyroid gland, helps to maintain a healthy weight, helps to balance the thyroid hormone and acts as an effective natural cure for treating Hypothyroidism.
Dosage – 2 tablets twice daily with plain water after meals
4. Hakam Churna –
Hakma churna is a “Tridoshik rasayan” and contains 4 effective herbs, which are – Kalonji (Nigella sativa), Chandershoor (Lepidium sativum), Methi (fenugreek), Ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi) etc. These herbs help to maintain thyroid levels in the normal range, help the thyroid gland to function normally, relieve pain, improve energy, keep the system hot, light, dry, help in weight loss, balance kapha dosha, enhance the circulation and digestion and act as a natural skin toner.
An ancient verse about Ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi)
Reference – The Bhavprakash nighantu, Verse – 75, 76
Meaning – This verse explains about various synonyms, properties and health benefits of Ajwain. Various synonyms for Ajwain are – Ajamodika, Brahmadarbha, Deepyaka, Deepai, Yavanaka, Ugargandha and Yavasahva. It is sharp and pungent, hot in potency, light in nature, helps to improve digestion and taste, promotes digestive fire, treats anorexia, increases pitta and is good for abdominal pain, indigestion, spleen disorders and worm infestation. But if taken in excess, can also destroy sperms.
Dosage – 1 tsp. twice daily with plain water after meals