February 15, 2025

Thyroid – a little yet powerful gland present at the core of your neck – is a hustler for controlling your metabolism, energy levels, and overall health. When this gland is not in shape – as in hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism – it may result in symptoms, from fatigue and weight fluctuations to mood swings and hair loss. Although modern medicine generally treats these symptoms via medications, natural methods and lifestyle changes, including those based in Ayurveda, offer complementary natural solutions to support thyroid function.

Knowing Thyroid Imbalance

TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) is produced in the following conditions:

Hypothyroidism: When the thyroid gland doesn’t make enough hormone, causing symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, dry skin and depression.

Hyperthyroidism: A diagnosis where the thyroid makes too much hormone, resulting in among other symptoms, weight loss, anxiety, heat intolerance and rapid heart rate.

The underlying causes of thyroid problems differ – everything from autoimmune disorders (such as Hashimoto’s and Graves’ disease) to nutritional deficiencies and stress – but natural interventions can help manage these symptoms. While natural remedies can yield the best outcomes, they should not be used as a substitute for prescribed treatments unless told to do so by a physician.

How Ayurveda Can Help in Optimising Thyroid Health?

Ayurveda is an ancient holistic healing system that focuses on balancing three elemental energies or “doshas” (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) to achieve utmost health. As per Ayurveda, these doshas, mainly Kapha (in hypothyroidism) and Pitta (in hyperthyroidism), are often suspected to be responsible for thyroid issues.

Herbal Remedies

Ayurvedic herbs are crucial to restoring thyroid balance naturally:

  • Ashwagandha: With its adaptogenic properties benefitting both the adrenal and thyroid glands, it helps in balancing thyroid hormones; it can be particularly beneficial for hypothyroidism. It also helps support the adrenal glands, reducing stress – another trigger for thyroid imbalances.
  • Guggul: Promotes metabolism and may improve thyroid activity by stimulating the thyroid gland. Studies indicate it may enhance the conversion of T4 (thyroxine) to the more active T3 (triiodothyronine) hormone, which is the key to metabolic balance.
  • Holy Basil/Brahmi: Known to alleviate stress and anxiety while also reducing free radicals, this powerful herb improves mental clarity and controls hormones.
  • Kanchanar: This herb is frequently used for thyroid conditions, such as goiter, and clears blockages of the lymphatic system. In traditional Ayurvedic preparations, it pairs well with guggul as well.
  • Turmeric: The anti-inflammatory effect of turmeric aids combating excess autoimmune response in diseases like Hashimoto’s. It also promotes gut health that is extremely crucial for the regulation of hormones.

Dietary Adjustments

Here are few usual things you should know to handle Hypothyroidism:

  • Iodine-Rich Foods: For hypothyroidism, add seaweed, eggs, dairy, and iodized salt to your diet. However, excessive iodine escalates thyroid problems, hence moderation is the order of the day.
  • Selenium and Zinc: Nuts, seeds, legumes and whole grains help strengthen thyroid function. Selenium, especially abundance in Brazil nuts, is critical for thyroid hormone production.
  • Avoid Goitrogenic Foods: Some foods, particularly many cruciferous vegetables, can disrupt the production and functioning of the thyroid, especially when consumed in a raw state. Cooking them minimizes their goitrogenic effect.
  • Stay Hydrated: Herbal beverages, namely ginger and turmeric tea nurtures metabolism and help in digestion. Drinking enough water also facilitates detoxification, which is excellent for overall hormonal balancing.

Lifestyle Practices

Here are the transformations required to be done in your way of living:

  • Yoga and Pranayama: Soft yoga like Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand) and Halasana (Plough Pose) nurtures the thyroid gland. Breathing techniques (pranayama) like Ujjayi and Nadi Shodhana relax and de-stress your body that majorly assists thyroid functioning as well.
  • During the Day (Dinacharya): Making sure our sleep patterns are consistent, exercising lightly on a daily basis and doing mindfulness practices can help balance hormones and decrease stress. Rounding out the bodily lakes, Ayurveda also talks about a deliberate routine. Rounding up the body, an asana, its reversal, it is important to maintain the natural rhythm of the body.
  • Hydrotherapy and Sun Exposure: Regular exposure to sun creates Vitamin D which is essential for thyroid functioning. Hydrotherapy treatments such as alternating hot to cold water treatments can also help improve circulation and support the endocrine system.

Supporting Thyroid Function and Stability Holistically

An effective blend of Ayurvedic herbs along with dietary and lifestyle changes could have a synergistic effect on getting rid of thyroid issues. But if you’re already taking thyroid medicines, it’s best to get these remedies into your routine under the guidance of a professional. The biggest takeaway is listening to your body and if you can implement small, practical changes to your lifestyle gradually, then that can make a significant difference in the health of your thyroid.

Conclusion

Thyroid disparity can be controlled in a well-rounded way using Ayurvedic practices and remedies. The good news is you can support your thyroid health naturally by adding Ayurvedic herbs, mindful dietary choices, and stress-reducing practices into your daily routine. For individuals interested in taking a more holistic approach to their thyroid care, HIIMS Premier offers holistic therapy as per natural and Ayurvedic principles. With their expert team, who merge traditional wisdom with modern insights, you can find a path to better health. Visit one of the centers of HIIMS Premier today and go through their natural healing information to know more.