The two main types of thyroid disorders are Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism. Both conditions can be caused by other diseases that impact the way the thyroid gland function.
A holistic approach to Thyroid problems in Ayurveda. What is the meaning of a holistic approach?
It is the balanced approach to healing the body, mind, and soul. That is the treatment of a person considering physical, mental, and social factors rather than just the symptoms of the illness.
The wisdom of Ayurveda believes that the universe is made of 5 elements.
Akash (space element)
Vayu (air element)
Agni (fire element)
Jal (water element)
Prithvi (earth element)
These five elements reside in the form of tridoshas that is Vata, Pitta, and Kapha in the human body. So, there is a unique blend of these tri doshas for everyone which is called Prakriti or the body type of the person. Prakriti is decided by determining your dominant dosha which is based on a set of physical and mental traits. Any imbalance in any of the dosha forms a disease. Though the symptoms are seen now, the imbalance is happening for a long time.
How do the Ayurveda treatments work for thyroid problems?
All the ayurvedic treatments are individualistic and based on the root cause of the disease which is the imbalance of the doshas. Beyond taking synthetic medication to treat the symptoms let’s prevent the disease at the source.
Pitta dosha imbalance is the main cause of thyroid issues.
For example, The metabolism function of the thyroid gland is related to Agni (fire element) which is again maintained by pitta dosha. Metabolism is affected by thyroid issues leading to various problems like indigestion, constipation, and weight gain/loss respectively in hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.
What are the Ayurveda treatments that are usually offered for thyroid problems?
Again, the treatment plan is always personalized. It’s proven that Panchkarma therapies (cleansing treatments in Ayurveda) have shown tremendous results in thyroid diseases.
Swedana (Steaming): Removing of blockage of subtle channels.
Udvartana (Medicated powder massage): Helps in dissolving subcutaneous fat and stimulates the nervous system and glands.
Virechana (Purgation therapy): Cleansing method performed by giving herbal medication.
Basti (Medicated enema): Cleansing of the lower alimentary canal and the medication absorbed spread all over the body.
Nasya (Instillation of oils or medicated liquids through the nasal route): It is to be done before pranayama. It helps in the balance of pituitary and thyroid gland hormones and their interrelation. It relieves stress and clears subtle channels by eliminating toxins from the body.
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Rebalance of the doshas with these panchakarma treatments will help to restore the proper functions of the thyroid gland. After these treatments, one can keep the thyroid hormone levels in balance by diet and lifestyle according to their body type.
We recommend you work with our Ayurveda specialist to develop an individualistic, holistic treatment plan. Our Ayurveda specialists will keep track of thyroid hormone levels and change the dose of medications, modifying the treatment plans considering the specific body type, imbalance of doshas, stages of the disease and season, etc.
At Sri Sri Ayurveda Hospital, we also offer online consultation support with our Ayurveda specialists to get the right guidance from the comfort of your home. Connect to our specialists and plan an individual path back to health.