Thyroid

Thyroid

What is Thyroid?

Thyroid is a vital gland and crucial for everyday bodily functions. It is located in the throat region of the body. It is an important organ of the endocrine system. It is responsible for the metabolic functions of the body like respiration, digestion, heart rate, neuronal and reproduction.

In Ayurved, the thyroid gland is said to be located near Vishuddhi Chakra. It is made up of Pitta and Kapha dosha. The thyroid is said to be the centre of Agni( fire) and is responsible for psychic and somatic growth, balance metabolism, and secretion of hormones. Thyroid is very sensitive to external stimuli and stress, and is a very sensitive gland.

Thyroid abnormalities are vividly explained in the classical texts of Ayurved as ‘Galaganda’- swelling of the neck. Thyroid synthesizes and secretes T3-Triiodothyronine and T4-Thyroxine hormones. Both these hormones require Iodine. So iodine is required for thyroid metabolism.

Various disorders can arise when your thyroid produces excess hormone (hyperthyroidism) or not enough (hypothyroidism).
Four common disorders of the thyroid are Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, Graves’ disease, goiter, and thyroid nodules.

Various disorders can arise when your thyroid produces excess hormone- hyperthyroidism or not enough -hypothyroidism
Four common disorders of the thyroid are Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, Graves’ disease, goiter, and thyroid nodules.

Causes of Thyroid

Thyroid disorders are caused due to many reasons. Some of it are -Stress, Genetics, Poor Nutrition leading to an iodine deficiency and disturbs the immune system.

Various disorders can arise when your thyroid produces excess hormone- hyperthyroidism or not enough -hypothyroidism
Four common disorders of the thyroid are Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, Graves’ disease, goiter, and thyroid nodules.

Hyperthyroidism
It is a condition led by overactive thyroid gland. This can lead to conditions like Hashimoto’s disease, MultiNodular Goitre or Grave’s disease.

Hypothyroidism
In this condition, the thyroid gland is underactive. When Agni becomes too less, the metabolic rate slows due to the reduced secretion of hormones. The above symptoms are typical of aggravated KaphaDosha. It is caused by autoimmune disease like chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis.

Symptoms

Hyperthyroidism
  • Trouble Sleeping
  • Thin Skin
  • Brittle Hair and Nails
  • Muscle Weakness
  • Weight Loss
  • Bulging Eyes (in Graves’ disease)
  • Restlessness
  • Nervousness
  • Racing Heart
  • Irritability
  • Increased Sweating
  • shaking
  • Anxiety
Hypothyroidism
  • Depression
  • Weight Gain
  • Weakness
  • Slow Heart Rate
  • Coma
  • Fatigue
  • Dry Skin
  • Increased Sensitivity to Cold
  • Memory pProblems
  • Constipation
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How does Ayurveda help in curing thyroid?

In Ayurved, there is a series of procedures to cure Thyroid issues naturally. There is use of herbal treatments, management of your diet, lifestyle changes which are paired with Ayurvedic herbs to prevent the disease from spreading further. Ayurveda works on the root cause of your problem, and provides medication as per your prakriti. It will ensure proper secretion of your hormones, the basics of being healthy. Ayurvedic medicines will boost your immune system and clear the body channels leading to healthy metabolism.

Home Remedies to treat Thyroid

1. Diet is a very important factor while treating the thyroid.

  • Drink plenty of fresh water.
  • Eat fresh, healthy food.
  • Avoid fried food items, or food which is too hot or too cold.
  • Try avoiding stimulants like vinegar, chocolate,tea, and coffee.
  • Sip on hot ginger tea, peppermint,
  • Avid intake of alcohol and smoking

2. Use herbs like- Trijata, Shilajeet, Shankhpushpi, Brahmi, Trikatu, Triphala etc after consulting your Ayurvedic Physician.

3. Practice Nasya.

4. Practice following breathing techniques like Kapalbhaati, Ujjaya, Anulom Vilom on a regular basis for 10-15 mins.

5. There are specific Yoga postures to treat thyroid gland functioning like- Janu sirasana, Halasana, Suryanamaskar, Paschimottsana.

6. Avoid snacking on junk food and replace it with nuts, makhana, fruits.

7. Have daily intake of Vitamin D by sitting in the early morning sun for at least 15mins.

8. Ensure proper iodine levels.