Did you know that women are worrying more and more about their thyroids? Thyroid problems are five to eight times more common in women than in men. In their lifetime, one in eight women will experience a thyroid issue. Located in the neck just below Adam’s apple, the thyroid is a small gland. It produces hormones that regulate metabolism, energy levels, body temperature, and other vital bodily functions.
Women face a risk approximately ten times higher than men. One reason for this is that thyroid disorders are often triggered by autoimmune responses, which happen when the body’s immune system starts to attack its cells. Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism are prevalent thyroid conditions that impact our ability to produce and utilise energy.
Why is a Healthy Thyroid Gland Necessary for Human Health?
The thyroid is a small butterfly-shaped gland that regulates several body metabolisms. The thyroid gland plays a crucial role in the endocrine system. It produces hormones to keep the body’s metabolic functions operating efficiently. The common thyroid disorders that affect how our bodies make and use energy are hyperthyroidism (hyperactive thyroid) and hypothyroidism (undernourished thyroid). However, the following are typical signs of thyroid disorders that your body may represent :
- Body weakness
- Redness on the skin
- Constipation
- Diarrhoea
- Nail infection
- Puffy legs
- Weight gain and loss
Use natural Ayurveda medicine as soon as you notice any signs of thyroid disease as it is safe, effective, and has no side effects.
How Well Does Ayurveda Tackle Thyroid Conditions?
Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to managing thyroid conditions by focusing on balancing the body’s energies and promoting overall well-being. Here’s how Ayurveda addresses thyroid issues:
- Dietary Recommendations: Ayurveda emphasises the importance of diet in maintaining health. Foods rich in iodine, such as coriander and cumin, can help support thyroid function. However, raw cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and kale, which may interfere with thyroid function, are advised to be avoided or cooked thoroughly.
- Herbal Remedies: Ayurvedic herbs like ashwagandha and guggul are believed to support thyroid health and balance hormone levels. These herbs are often incorporated into formulations or taken as supplements to aid in managing thyroid disorders.
- Lifestyle Changes: Practices such as regular exercise, exposure to sunlight for vitamin D synthesis, and stress reduction techniques like yoga and meditation can help support thyroid function and overall well-being.
- Ayurvedic Treatments: Panchakarma, a detoxification therapy in Ayurveda, may be recommended to cleanse the body of toxins and restore balance. Additionally, therapies such as Abhyanga (oil massage) and Swedana (herbal steam therapy) can help improve circulation and support thyroid health.
- Balancing Agni: Ayurveda emphasises maintaining healthy digestion (Agni) to support overall health, including thyroid function. Digestive issues are addressed through dietary adjustments, herbal remedies, and lifestyle modifications to ensure proper nutrient absorption and elimination of toxins.
- Avoidance of Sugar and Processed Foods: Ayurveda advises against consuming processed sugars and highly processed foods, which can negatively impact thyroid function and overall health. Instead, focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods to support thyroid health.
- Individualised Approach: Ayurveda recognizes that each person is unique, and the treatment approach should be tailored to the individual’s constitution (Prakriti) and imbalances (Vikriti).
Herbs To Support Thyroid Function
Ayurveda harnesses the potential of various herbs to support thyroid health, providing alternative avenues for individuals seeking natural approaches to enhance their well-being. Before initiating any herbal regimen, it’s crucial to seek guidance from a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner or healthcare professional.
Here are eight commonly used Ayurvedic herbs believed to promote thyroid health:
- Gotukola – Gotu Kola may support thyroid health by improving circulation in the body. This herb is known to improve the health of blood vessels and increase blood flow to the brain, which may help to deliver more nutrients and oxygen to enhance the function of the thyroid gland and lessen its workload.
- Ginger – Ginger is a common spice, but the root classifies it as a herb. Ginger offers numerous health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties.
- Tulsi – Tulsi is rich in antioxidants and compounds with anti-inflammatory properties. Oxidative stress and inflammation are implicated in thyroid disorders, and consuming tulsi may help reduce inflammation and oxidative damage, supporting overall thyroid function.
- Chamomile – Chamomile is a popular herb known for its calming properties and its ability to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. Chamomile tea is good for hypothyroidism. Because it has antioxidants and iodine, and they can protect your thyroid gland and support your thyroid function.
- Ashwagandha – Ashwagandha, recognized as an adaptogenic herb, is believed to aid in balancing thyroid hormones and promoting overall endocrine health. Research suggests its potential to alleviate stress and anxiety by regulating cortisol, the stress hormone. By managing stress levels, Ashwagandha may directly support thyroid health.
- Brahmi – Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), a well-known Ayurvedic herb, is thought to promote thyroid health due to its adaptogenic and antioxidant characteristics. Traditionally used to support the nervous system, Brahmi indirectly benefits thyroid health by nurturing the interconnectedness between the two systems.
- Coriander Seed – Rich in Vitamin A, C, K, and folate coriander seeds aid in improving thyroid function and reducing inflammation. on, and enhancing the conversion of T3 and T4 in the liver. Coriander seeds, leaves, and coriander water can offer significant benefits for individuals dealing with thyroid issues.
- Fennel Seeds – First, fennel seed contains compounds that can mimic the effects of the hormone estrogen . Estrogen can promote the growth of thyroid cells and lead to an enlarged thyroid gland (goitre). Fennel seed contains compounds that can interfere with the production of thyroid hormones.
- Cardamom – Cardamom contains antioxidants that help neutralise harmful free radicals in the body. Oxidative stress is implicated in thyroid dysfunction, and antioxidants may help protect thyroid cells from damage.
- Rose – Roses contain polyphenols and other antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress in the body. By reducing oxidative stress, roses may support overall health, including thyroid function.
- Cinnamon – Cinnamon is most handy in our kitchen. Its extracts offer anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits and regulate glucose metabolism as well. It helps to improve energy levels and can be a natural treatment for hyperthyroidism. Cinnamon helps in reducing the levels of total T3, T4, and TSH when peaked.
Use Vapika Thyroid Care Tea for Hypothyroidism for A perfect remedy.
Vapika Thyroid Tea is the perfect solution for people struggling with Hypothyroidism or underactive thyroid. It helps to manage your TSH levels effectively with the goodness of ayurvedic herbs like Cinnamon, Gotukola, Rose, and Ashwagandha that are having their roles in healing hypothyroidism.
