DOES THYROID HAVE ANY CURE…? WELL, WITH AYURVEDA,LIVE IN HARMONY &BE REST ASSURED!

Did you know that thyroid patients when treated with holistic Ayurveda have better healing chances…? Well, you heard it right, the very own ancient Indian medicinal practice has the best cure for the millions of thyroid sufferers worldwide!

METABOLISM AND THYROID GLAND

Certain biochemical processes which take place inside the body are influential in the growth, repair, response and maintenance of our life. These processes are collectively called as metabolism and are performed by a line of endocrine glands. They secrete hormones into the lymph and blood, and helps in the sustenance of any living organism.

Thyroid, a butterfly shaped endocrine gland situated at the lower part of the neck, plays an important role in body’s metabolism. Without a functional thyroid, a living organism would not be able to break down proteins and will be incapable of processing carbohydrates and vitamins. Thyroid secretes thyroxin, which stimulates the consumption of oxygen, leading to the metabolism of all cells and tissues in the body. The result of this process is a healthy physical growth.

The over-secretion (hyperthyroidism) and under-secretion (hypothyroidism) of thyroxin in the body result in unbalanced chemical changes accounting to numerous health problems.

AYURVEDIC PERSPECTIVE ON THYROID DISORDERS

Ayurveda, the ancient Indian medicinal practice, terms the bio-chemical (metabolism) process as ‘agni,’ responsible for all the activities inside the body, up to the cellular level. Major literatures of Ayurveda share its clear idea about thyroid disorder and its treatment. Ayurveda attributes the cause of thyroid disease to the imbalance of tri-doshas caused by climatic conditions, impure water intake, in-nutritious foods and unhealthy dietary habits. Kashyapa Samhita (a treatise on Ayurveda attributed to the sage Kashyap) ascribes some climatic conditions like coldness, dampness, water stagnation and heavy rains in the promotion of this disease.

HYPOTHYROIDISM

The inadequate functioning of thyroid gland results in the reduced levels of thyroxin secretion which leads to hypothyroidism.  Ayurveda attributes the root cause of this dysfunction to the vitiated Kapha and Pitta doshas. Sluggishness of bodily functions, depressed muscular activity, slow pulse, hoarseness of voice, decreased immune functioning with recurrent infections, constipation, irritability, sensitivity to cold, depression and dry skin are some the symptoms of this disease.

Having a 30ml decoction with the bark of Kaanchanaaraor Punarnava plant twice a day on an empty stomach is efficient in treating mild cases. Kaanchanaara guggulu and Punarnawaadi guggulu, the pills containing these herbs are popularly used for the treatment of this disease.  Certain other recommendations include the consumption of foods that are naturally high in iodine such as fish, shell fish, white onions, potatoes, asparagus, etc.  Ayurveda also prohibits foods that naturally slow down the functioning of the thyroid such as cabbage, mustard-greens, cauliflower, maize, sweet potatoes, and spinach for the patients suffering from hypothyroidism.

HYPERTHYROIDISM

Hyperthyroidism is a condition that encompasses several different diseases, all characterized by production of too much hormone, resulting in an overactive metabolic state. Many of the body’s processes speed up with this disorder; rapid heart rate, palpitation, shallow respiration, frequent bowel motions, menstrual disturbance and excessive fatigue are some of the symptoms of this disease. Intake of foods that are natural suppressors of thyroid gland is a natural remedy for this disease.

Cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, turnips, mustard greens, spinach and radishes in your diet can decrease the secretion of thyroxin. Certain other food items that trigger the hormone like iodized salts, sea foods, red meat, dairy products nicotine and alcohol should be avoided.

Dandelion Leaves – The paste of these leaves along with clarified butter is efficient in treating goiter, the main disease caused by hyperthyroidism. The mixture in lukewarm should be applied to the swollen area of the neck. Leave it for 20 minutes. Doing it daily for two weeks will yield great relief.

Flax Seeds – Ancient Ayurvedic practitioners used the anti-inflammatory properties of flax seeds to cure goiter. The seed is a powerhouse of anti-oxidents which is effective in countering the disease. Make a thick paste by mixing two tbsp. of crushed flax seeds with equal amount of water. Apply it on the throat.

YOGA

The massage and stimulation that thyroid glands receive while practicing yoga, is beneficial for the balance and functioning of the entire endocrine system. The Asanas also helpin proper functioning of the gland, by developing blood circulation and flow of energy. Some of the yoga stances that curtail thyroid dysfunction are:

Matsyasana and Halasana: The stretching and compression involved in these yogasana’s rejuvenates and revitalizes thyroid gland and wards off any illnesses present. These miraculous Asanas also renew energy, lower stress, and reduce the muscle and joint stiffness accompanied with thyroid dysfunction.

Pranayama: The improper functioning of thyroid can lead to mood swings and depression. It becomes very difficult for the patients to attain peaceful mind and body. Pranayama, the most important breathing exercise in yoga induces calmness and concentration needed for the person.

Ayurveda is undoubtedly your best resort in dealing with thyroid dysfunction. The herbs collected from the lap of nature are safe and highly effective in treatment of this disease, and when accompanied with miraculous yoga stances and healthy diets, you can keep your worries at bay.