Treatment of the thyroid gland according to Ayurveda
The thyroid gland is a small organ located in the upper part of the neck, which regulates the hormonal background, the metabolism, the reproductive function and the mental state of a person. According to Ayurvedic ideas, the thyroid gland is influenced by stress and the emotional state, nutrition and lifestyle. Modern medicine explains thyroid diseases differently — by autoimmune processes, iodine deficiency, heredity — so the Ayurvedic approach here is lifestyle support, not an alternative to examination and treatment by an endocrinologist.
Traditional medicine about thyroid diseases
The main physiological cause of the illness is a lack of iodine. As a result the following deviations arise:
- Hypothyroidism is a decrease in the level of hormones. It is characterised by an increase in the size of the thyroid gland, mental disorders, general weakness, a decrease in blood pressure and the general tone of the organism, insomnia, skin rashes.
- Hyperthyroidism is an increased level of hormones. It is characterised by a noticeable acceleration of the metabolic processes, weight loss, increased blood pressure, muscle weakness, sweating, nausea, irritability, insomnia.
- Goitre is a significant increase in the size of the gland, not connected with a change in its functions. Usually it does not affect the general condition of a person, however difficulty breathing and swallowing, caused by compression of the nasopharynx, are possible.
It is impossible to determine the cause of the problem on one’s own. Sometimes even laboratory tests are not enough, an ultrasound scan is required.
Why problems with the thyroid gland arise according to Ayurveda
The main task of Ayurveda is the restoration and maintenance of the balance of vital forces. Healers regard thyroid diseases as a result of an incorrect way of life: bad habits, unhealthy food, frequent stresses.
Incorrect nutrition leads to the accumulation of undigested remnants in the intestine. The decomposing food releases poisons that enter the bloodstream and poison the organism. A disbalancing of the doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) occurs. The tasks of Ayurveda include the restoration of equilibrium, the harmonisation of relationships.
Ayurvedic treatment of the thyroid gland is aimed at the search for the causes of harboured anger and dissatisfaction. In parallel with the solving of psychological problems, work goes on to change the way of life, nutrition, the attitude to society and to oneself. In the treatment various Ayurvedic plant-based preparations are used.
How to combat the disease
The specific causes of thyroid dysfunction according to Ayurveda and the ways of eliminating them:
- Hypothyroidism is caused by a lack of attention and care from loved ones, uncertainty in one’s own strength, a depressive state, a fear of mistakes. What to do: take responsibility for your life, forgive real or imagined hurts, believe in yourself.
- Hyperthyroidism. Heightened emotionality, an inability to react to a situation with restraint, an attempt to mask one’s shortcomings with active showy actions. What to do: realise that the result is more important than demonstrative bustle, appreciate the pluses of a calm, measured life, analyse your possibilities and needs.
Ayurveda uses plant remedies in treatment, but doctors always approach the selection of preparations individually. General recommendations do not exist. A diet with an increased content of iodine (nori, kelp, spirulina, watercress) is indicated only with hypothyroidism. Ayurvedic doctors recommend the wearing of short strings of amber, pearls, turquoise.
How to treat thyroid nodules
A nodule is an accumulation of proliferated cells of the gland itself. Tumours can be both benign and malignant. Control over their size is carried out with the help of ultrasound. If the formation is larger than one centimetre, a biopsy is necessary. Rapid growth of a nodule is a marker of a serious problem. Treatment needs to be begun with determining the level of hormones and changing the way of life.
The only means of treating malignant nodules is surgical intervention. Self-treatment can worsen the situation.
What a cyst on the thyroid gland is
A cyst differs from nodules in composition. These are vesicles filled with a thick gel-like mass. With small sizes (up to a centimetre) they do not need to be treated, a refusal of bad habits, the solving of psychological problems, a diet, meditations, yoga are enough. With the growth of a cyst a puncture is needed to determine the composition of the contents. If there is a threat to life, a surgical operation on the thyroid gland is necessary.
Conclusion
The thyroid gland is a key element of the endocrine system, affecting all the physiological functions of the organism. There are congenital and acquired causes of the disease. It is impossible to change hereditary factors, whereas a person is able to cope with conflicts, stresses or other negativity on their own or with the help of Ayurvedic doctors.
The thyroid gland is treated at the following Ayurvedic clinics of India
Frequent questions about Ayurveda for thyroid diseases
Ayurveda can be a support (nutrition, stress reduction, regimen, herbs under a doctor), but it does not replace examination by an endocrinologist and prescribed hormone therapy.
No. The level of hormones is controlled with tests and corrected by a doctor. Ayurveda works with the way of life, not with TSH indicators.
No. Nodules and cysts are observed and managed by a doctor; malignant ones — only surgery. Self-treatment is dangerous.
For example, Kanchanar Guggulu and Shatavari; but the selection is only with a doctor, especially while taking hormones (interactions are possible).
Stress reduction, a sleep regimen, nutrition to suit the constitution, gentle practices — as support, not as a replacement for treatment.
Ready to select a supporting programme under a doctor’s supervision? We will help to choose an Ayurvedic clinic to suit your task and budget.
The thyroid gland is regulated by hormones: hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, nodules and cysts are diagnoses that are made by an endocrinologist on the basis of tests (TSH and others). Ayurveda for thyroid diseases is lifestyle support, not a replacement for treatment; do not cancel prescribed hormones and examinations.