Ayurveda is an alternate science of Indian origin dating back to about 5000 years which has gained popularity all over the world because of its holistic approach to deal with the root cause of any ailments. Ayurveda aims to improve the overall living standards by altering one’s eating habits, exercise regime, and spiritual awareness through meditation.
The thyroid(Glandula Thyreoidea) is a vital gland found in the human body just above the collarbone. It resembles a butterfly in shape and its functions include releasing the thyroid hormones, responsible for growth and metabolism, into the blood vessels. The three major hormones released the Thyroid gland are
Triiodothyronine(T3)
Tetraiodothyronine(T4)
Calcitonin
T3 and T4 are produced in the follicular epithelial cells of the Thyroid with Iodine as the main component. The Thyroid gland is controlled by the pituitary gland helping to release the required amount from time to time. The metabolic rate is increased by the hormones T3 and T4. Calcitonin on the other hand helps in bone metabolism. Overall the thyroid gland is crucial and an abnormally functioning gland leads to many complications.
The condition of an underperforming thyroid gland is called Hypothyroidism and excess thyroid hormone secretion is called hyperthyroidism. Both these conditions are harmful to the body and need timely medical care and attention. Also sometimes the Thyroid gland itself becomes enlarged leading to Diffuse Goiter. The formation of lumps in the thyroid gland is known as Nodular Goiter. In some rare cases, these lumps are formed due to cancer.
Since the severity of this abnormality is subtle in the initial stages, many people may already be suffering for long before they begin the remedy. It is estimated that around 200 million people around the world suffer from some variation of thyroid disease. Although it is not contagious, this is truly a grave matter affecting many families.
The symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, weight gain, muscle weakness, and a puffy face. One of the main causes is an autoimmune disease called Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is a condition where the immune system of the body attacks the thyroid gland.
Allopathic medication(western medication) involves administering synthetic thyroid hormones known as Levothyroxine into the bloodstream, usually in the form of capsules. However, this may result in lifelong medication.
Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism on the other hand include weight loss, increased appetite, increased heartbeat, and constant anxiety. There are many treatments in western medicine for the same. This includes Radioactive Iodine, Anti Thyroid medication, Beta-blockers, and surgery.
The main issue of depending on artificial supplements in western medicine is that the body considers that as a signal to shut down the natural mode of thyroid gland functioning. Instead, it will train the body to await the regular dosage supply of hormones and respond accordingly. One can say that the gland goes into hibernation.
In Ayurveda, the thyroid is considered to be Vata-Kapha in nature. Vata and Kapha refer to the doshas(humor) of the human body and ailments arise when these doshas become imbalanced. Many factors that imbalance the Vata include intake of cold and raw food(like smoothies or raw salad), low intake of animal protein, high stress, late nights etc. The treatment in Ayurveda aims at restoring the functionality of the thyroid gland. The treatments are not a quick fix solution and will involve longer-term duration based on the severity of the condition and the time when it was discovered. There are many studies being conducted worldwide to utilize natural remedies and alternatives which are found in Ayurveda and below mentioned are a few popular theories:
Udhvartana: Powdered herb massages for the full body in the form of paste and not oil. Basically, it stimulates the thyroid gland and the nervous system to function properly.
Ashwagandha: The scientific name is Withania Somnifera. It is a herb primarily grown in India and North Africa. Studies show that Ashwagandha is successful in lowering stress hormones. People who regularly use it showed lowered stress levels and subsequently improved thyroid hormone levels
Abhyanga Oil Massage: Sesame Oil and herbs are mixed together and this mixture is used in the ayurvedic massage to help relieve muscle pain, poor circulation, and digestive problems.
Pranayama: Breathing exercises that help to calm your body and mind resulting in lower stress levels. This practice is good for many other ailments including respiratory issues.
Proper Diet: As mentioned earlier, including animal fat in regular diets help in combating thyroid-related issues. Also include milk, eggs, and barley. For people with Hypothyroidism, intake of iodine-rich foods like seafood is highly recommended.
Panchakarma: Intense detoxification of the entire body involving a 5 step process to rid the body of disease-causing impurities.
Although these are proven methods for many people, every person has different requirements based on their lifestyle, age, and dietary preferences. It is never advisable to self-treat such conditions and taking help from experienced professionals in Ayurveda is the best way to go about it. Dr Jasnas Clinic is one of the best Ayurvedic clinics in Dubai. The fast-paced life in Dubai leads to many stress-related ailments including abnormal Thyroid. You would not have to look any further for the best Ayurvedic treatment in Dubai with Dr Jasna’s Clinic working relentlessly to help you attain a fulfilling and healthy life.
