Ayurvedic Cure For Hypothyroidism
Now-a-days many people are becoming victims to a variety of diseases. This is due to drastic changes in the lifestyle, eating habits and increased stress and strain. One such disease which is being greatly reported by people is hypothyroidism. It refers to lower secretion of the thyroid hormone. Hypothyroidism is characterized by symptoms such as lethargy, extremely cold feet and palms, constipation, headaches, dry skin and excess weight gain. The symptoms make life miserable and hence, many people seek medical advice to cure the disease. Ayurvedic cure for hypothyroidism is the best way of treating hypothyroidism naturally. In ayurveda there is no direct description about hypothyroidism but there is description about a disease galaganda which is closely related to hypothyroidism.
Herbs used in treating hypothyroidism
- Kaanchanara: This herb also known as purple mountain ebony is a powerful remedy for any sort of the thyroid problem. It is used either in the form of pill or tablet. It is found to stimulate the thyroid gland functioning.
- Guggulu: This herb is right for treating hypothyroidism in obese people as it acts as a good fat burning agent. As obesity is the major cause for hypothyroidism in many people it is highly beneficial to use guggulu for treating this thyroid disorder. It is available in three different forms i.e. tablet, pill and capsule.
- Punarnava: Few people suffering with hypothyroidism complaint about symptoms of swelling and numbness throughout the body. Punarnava is very helpful for such patients as it relieves swelling and numbness very easily. It is available in tonic form and is also good for improving the general health of the body.
- Shigru patra kwatha: Shigru is a very familiar plant in India. It is rich in iodine and is hence, a great medicine to treat hypothyroidism. The dry leaves of Shigru plant are powdered. The powder is used to make a decoction and is taken along with Guggulu and Kaanchanara.
- Jalakumbi: This is a type of vegetable that is rich in iodine. Hypothyroid patients can obtain relief by having juice of jalakumbi for few days.
- Coconut Oil: People with hypothyroidism have a very poor metabolism. Coconut oil is rich in medium chain fatty acids that play role in boosting the metabolism. Thus, hypothyroid patients can get better results by including coconut oil in cooking.
- Diet management: Ayurvedic specialist Charka said that goiter does not attack people who take milk regularly. Hence, to elevate symptoms of hypothyroidism it is recommended to take adequate quantity of milk daily. Apart from milk old rice, moong dal, barley, vegetables like cucumber and sugar juice give good results for hypothyroid patients. They should stay away from sour foods.
- Yoga: Yoga asana are very good to improve the overall health of the body. They stimulate the functioning of various glands and boost the metabolism. Sarvangasna or the shoulder stand is a right asana for stimulating the thyroid gland functioning as this posture exerts pressure on the thyroid gland. This pressure helps to improve the circulation to the gland and forces the gland to secrete the hormones. After sarvangasana, matsyasana and halasna should be practiced for positive results. Other exercises that help to exert pressure on head and neck region include Surya Namskara, yoga mudra, Suptavajrasana and Pavanamuktasana. It is very essential to remember that people with any sign of thyrotoxicosis should not practice these asana as they would aggravate the symptoms and make the condition worse.
- Pranayama: Nadi shodhana pranayama helps to have a well balanced metabolism. Ujjayi pranayama gives positive results for hypothyroidism. It acts on the throat region and improves the thyroid activity.
Even though most of the ayurvedic supplements do not cause any side effects it is recommended to consult a physician before using any of the above supplements.