Thyroid is now a days a common
ailment in most of the indian ladies. Thyroid is due to impurity in blood
which causes hormonal imbalance and hence causing a no. of symptoms
like weight gain ,anorexia,weakness, reduced in activity,loss of
cheerfullness ect. In hyperthyroidism, there is increased metabolic
activity, high pulse rate and weight loss, palpitation, in the patient.
Hypothyroid is most common now
a days specially in case of women. Hypothyroidism causes hormonal imbalance
in them and causes too many other associated problems.
Ayurcure provides complete cure
for the hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism as well. we have treated lots of
patients with these problems at our centre. AYURCURE provides complete
cure for this disease. In other system of treatment pt. dependent on
medications and he has to continue it throughout life long, with pesistent
symptoms. Thus patient get tired of this disease and wants to get rid from
this disease.
AYURCURE is a ray of hope for
such patients and we are happy to provide complete cure for this disease.
The incidence of Hypothyroidism is increasing
day by day, and there is increasing demand to treat the disease through the
Ayurvedic system of medicine, as it is completely natural and safe.
Hypothyroidism can be treated effectively if we understand the disease and
select the proper drugs, according to the condition and exact aetiology of
the disease.
There has been slow advancement in the knowledge
of thyroid disorders since the dawn of the 20th century. Awareness of the
thyroid gland can be traced back as far as the first century AD when Galen,
a famous Greek doctor, provided a brief description of this gland. He
suggested that it functioned to lubricate the larynx, a view that was
accepted for a long time. In 1656 Thomas Wharton named the thyroid, from
the Greek word thyreos meaning 'Oblong shield'. He suggested that the
purpose of the thyroid was to beautify the neck by giving it a rounder
contour through filling the vacant spaces around the larynx.[1]
Function of Thyroid Gland and Hormone
Even up to 1880, the thyroid was proposed as a
receptacle of worms, or even a vascular shunt, to cushion the brain against
a sudden increase in blood flow. The definite function of the thyroid as a
controller of metabolism was studied and confirmed by George Murray, Hector
Mackenzie and Edward Fox .[1, 2, 3]
The
major function of the thyroid hormones is to stimulate the synthesis of
protein once they have entered the cell nucleus. Another important function
is to stimulate the activity of the cell's mitochondria. These
intracellular organelles are the sites at which there is a controlled
exchange of energy. Some energy is conserved for the body's functioning,
while the remainder is dissipated as heat. The proportion of energy devoted
to each of these processes is controlled by the thyroid hormones.[4]
Cells respond to the thyroid hormone with an
increase in metabolic activity. Metabolic activity, or metabolism, is a
term used to describe the processes in the body that produce energy, and
the chemical substances necessary for cells to grow, divide to form new
cells, and perform other vital functions.[4, 5]
In the Rig Veda {the first of a collection of
sacred ancient Hindu texts) the first Rik starts with the 'agni meele
purohitam' meaning agniis purohita, the conductor of rituals to protect
the pura or this body.[6] The term agni means fire, which is a prime
and ultimate factor in the maintenance of life. In vachaspatyam, agni is
defined as 'nayate parinamayateeti' that which brings changes in an
organism or a substance, indicating it is a key factor in transformation of
consumed ahara viharadi dravyas of vijateeya (heterogeneous) origin
into sajateeya (homogenous) nature. Since agni is a derivative of teja
mahabhoota, it carries to paka in which the inherent feature is change. The
term metabolism, which literally means change, is used to refer to all the
chemical and energy transformations that occur in the body, which is
nothing but the function of agni viz. 'Nayate parinaaamyateeti'.[6]
Hypothyroidism results when the thyroid gland
fails to produce enough of the thyroid hormone, due to structural or
functional impairment that significantly impairs its output of hormones -
this leads to the hypo metabolic state of hypothyroidism. This tends to
slow down the body's functions. The thyroid gland controls metabolism
through the production of thyroid hormone. Hypothyroidism occurs when the
thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones.[7]
Main Causes of Hypothyroidism
The main causes of hypothyroidism can be
classified [8] into:
1. Primary (thyroid failure):
Hypothyroidism, caused by the inability of the thyroid gland to make T3 and
T4, is called primary hypothyroidism;
Primary hypothyroidism is a condition of decreased hormone production by the thyroid gland. It accounts for 95% of hypothyroidism cases; only five percent or less are suprathyroid in origin. The most common cause of primary hypothyroidism is:
i) Iodine deficiency;
ii) AITDs (Autoimmune thyroid diseases);
iii) Drugs;
iv) Iatrogenic;
v) Congenital.
Transient hypothyroidism includes silent and part partum thyroiditis.
Primary hypothyroidism is a condition of decreased hormone production by the thyroid gland. It accounts for 95% of hypothyroidism cases; only five percent or less are suprathyroid in origin. The most common cause of primary hypothyroidism is:
i) Iodine deficiency;
ii) AITDs (Autoimmune thyroid diseases);
iii) Drugs;
iv) Iatrogenic;
v) Congenital.
Transient hypothyroidism includes silent and part partum thyroiditis.
2. Secondary (due to pituitary TSH
deficit);
3. Tertiary (due to hypothalamic deficiency of TRH).
Hypothyroidism is one of the most undiagnosed and misdiagnosed diseases, as its clinical features are notorious. Hypothyroidism doesn't have any characteristic symptoms, and many symptoms of this condition can occur in people with other diseases. Vertigo, mood disturbances, easy fatigability, tiredness, lethargy, slowness of memory, intellect and thought were the early symptoms, and Parasthesias, muscle cramps, weakness, muscles stiffness and aching were the main complaints of the chronic cases.[9]
3. Tertiary (due to hypothalamic deficiency of TRH).
Hypothyroidism is one of the most undiagnosed and misdiagnosed diseases, as its clinical features are notorious. Hypothyroidism doesn't have any characteristic symptoms, and many symptoms of this condition can occur in people with other diseases. Vertigo, mood disturbances, easy fatigability, tiredness, lethargy, slowness of memory, intellect and thought were the early symptoms, and Parasthesias, muscle cramps, weakness, muscles stiffness and aching were the main complaints of the chronic cases.[9]
Ayurveda and the Thyroid
Gland
There is no direct mention of the thyroid gland
in Ayurveda, but a disease by the name Galaganda, characterized by neck
swelling, is well known. The first description of neck swelling was
mentioned in Atharva Veda (the last of the four Vedas) by the name apachi.
Charaka mentioned the disease under 20 sleshma vikaras.[10] Sushruta
{renowned ancient Indian surgeon}in Sareera Sthana has mentioned that of
the seven layers of the skin, the sixth layer Rohini is the seat of
Galaganda.[11] In Nidana Sthana he described Galaganda as two encapsulated
small or big swellings in the anterior angle of the neck, which hang like
scrotum, [12] whereas Charaka mentioned Galaganda as a solitary
swelling.[13]
The climatic conditions, water supply, dietary conditions, etc., are mentioned as the main aetiological factors. Susrutha stated that rivers flowing towards east might give rise to the occurrence of Galaganda.[14] Bhela described that Sleepda and Galaganda are more common in prachya desa (eastern part) of the country, and that persons consuming predominantly fish are liable to develop Galgaganda.[15] Harita Samhitakara described the role of dustambu (contaminated water) and krimi dosha (infection) in the precipitation of Galaganda.[16] Kashyapa Samhitakara added that any part of the country that is cold, damp, with densely grown long trees, water stagnation and heavy rains may be prone for the development of Galaganda .[17]
The climatic conditions, water supply, dietary conditions, etc., are mentioned as the main aetiological factors. Susrutha stated that rivers flowing towards east might give rise to the occurrence of Galaganda.[14] Bhela described that Sleepda and Galaganda are more common in prachya desa (eastern part) of the country, and that persons consuming predominantly fish are liable to develop Galgaganda.[15] Harita Samhitakara described the role of dustambu (contaminated water) and krimi dosha (infection) in the precipitation of Galaganda.[16] Kashyapa Samhitakara added that any part of the country that is cold, damp, with densely grown long trees, water stagnation and heavy rains may be prone for the development of Galaganda .[17]
A case of Galaganda attended with difficult
respiration, a softening of the whole body, weakness, a non relish for,
loss of voice, as well as the one which is more than of a year's standing
should be abandoned by the physicians to be incurable.[18] Although
these facts were mentioned centuries ago, it is still an accepted fact that
environmental factors, especially iodine, plays an important role in the
functioning of the thyroid gland. Any imbalance in iodine metabolism can
upset the thyroid condition; either too much or too little iodine can
result in the development of goitre. So the areas where the soil is
depleted, also the soil content in which food grows, the drinking water and
goitrogenic foods, play a vital role in disease process. As far as
consuming fish or any seafood goes, all a rich source of iodine, an excess
may be a causative factor.[19]
From the above description we can say that
Galaganda is a condition related to thyroid gland. But hypothyroidism is
not just a local disease; it has many symptoms related to many systems. So
it is better not to restrict hypothyroidism with Galaganda as mentioned in
the classics.
Planning of Treatment
''Vikaranamakusalo na jihriyat kadachana Nahi
sarva vikaranam namoto asti dhrivasthitih''.[20]
- Cha Chi. 18/44
Ayurveda doesn't emphasize the exact nomenclature of the diseases; rather it insists on diagnosis of the constitutional status of the disease as mentioned in Charaka.[20]
- Cha Chi. 18/44
Ayurveda doesn't emphasize the exact nomenclature of the diseases; rather it insists on diagnosis of the constitutional status of the disease as mentioned in Charaka.[20]
Based on Ayurvedic principles, the following are
the main causes for hypothyroidism.
1. Genetical and hereditary defects come under Adibala Pravritta Vyadhis,[21]
so no treatment is suggested;
2. Congenital defects come under Janmabala Pravritta Vyadhis [21] (the
disease present from birth itself, i.e. congenital defects). Thyroid gland
Agenesis, Dysgenesis, Ectopic thyroid gland come under this category;
3. Iodine deficiency is the main common cause for hypothyroidism.
So 'Sarvadha sarva bhavanam samanyam vriddhikaranam'[22] applies here;
4.
Auto immunity is another common cause, so immuno modulatory drugs are
recommended here;
5. Side-effects of surgery and radiation: Kasta Sadhya [23] (difficult to
treat);
6. For transient hypothyroidism no specific treatment is required;
7. If there is functional loss of thyroid tissue, or functional defects,
thyroid stimulatory drugs are beneficial;
8. Selection of drugs acting at various levels:[24]
�
At Hypo-thalamo pituitary level: anti-stress drugs, Medhya Rasayana [25]
drugs, Nasyakarma [25] may be beneficial;
�At thyroid gland level: thyroid stimulatory drugs are recommended here;
�At metabolism level: Deepana, Pacahana, Lekhana [25] drugs which pep-up
body metabolism is recommended;
� Immuno modulatory drugs for autoimmune related hypothyroidism.
'Samprapti vighatana' [6] is one of the main
principles of treatment. Whatever may be the aetiology of the disease, it
results in under-active condition of the thyroid gland and, ultimately, the
slowing down of the body's metabolism. So the treatment should aim to
stimulate the thyroid gland. Thyroid stimulatory drugs like Guggul should
be selected to treat the disease.
As symptoms of hypothyroidism are notorious, symptomatic treatment is based to suit individual cases, i.e. sthoulya (obesity), menstrual irregularities, etc.
As symptoms of hypothyroidism are notorious, symptomatic treatment is based to suit individual cases, i.e. sthoulya (obesity), menstrual irregularities, etc.
Pathyapathya {Regimes to be followed during Treatments}
Eating goitrogenic foods such as rapeseed,
cabbage, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower, sweet potatoes, maize,
lima beans, soya and pearl millet should be limited. These foods contain
natural goitrogens, which are chemicals that cause the enlargement of the
thyroid gland by interfering with thyroid hormone synthesis. Cooking is
known to make the goitrogens elements less effective, but it would be wise
not eat these foods raw.[27]
Smoking depresses TH levels and produces chronic
underlying hypothyroidism. Research shows that nicotine increases the
synthesis of T3 from T4 in the brain, while alcohol and opiates block the
breakdown of T3 in the brain.
Foods that contain iodine, such as kelp,
beetroot, radish, parsley, potatoes, fish, oatmeal and bananas, should be
kept in the diet.
Vihara
Another important factor in the treatment of
hypothyroidism is exercise. Exercise increases tissue sensitivity to the
thyroid hormone, and stimulates thyroid gland secretion. An exercise regime
of between 15-20 minutes per day benefits hypothyroidism. This exercise
needs to be strenuous enough to raise the heartbeat, such as walking,
swimming, running and cycling, except in the case of who also have
generalized hypotonia, as they may be at risk of ligamental injury,
particularly from excessive force across joints. Physical and
emotional stress inhibits thyroid gland secretion due to reduction of
thyrotrophin output. So reduction of stress is essential for proper
functioning of the gland.
Yoga [28]
Sarvangasana {shoulder stand}is the most
suitable and effective asana for the thyroid gland. Enormous pressure is
placed on the gland by this powerful posture. As the thyroid gland has a
large blood supply, pressure has a dramatic effect on its function,
improving circulation and squeezing out stagnant secretions. Also
beneficial afterSarvangasana is the practice of Matsyasana (fish pose)
and Halasna (plough pose). Other effective asanas includeSurya
Namaskara (Sun salutation), Pavanamuktasana (wind relieving pose) with
emphasis on head and neck exercises, Supta Vajrasana (sleeping thunderbolt
pose) and all backward bending asanas.
Pranayam [28]
The
most effective pranayama is ujjayi. It acts on the throat, and its relaxing
and stimulating effects are most probably due to stimulation of ancient
reflex pathways within the throat area, which are controlled by the brain
stem and hypothalamus. Surya, Chandra, Nadi Sodhana pranayama (right, left
and alternate nostril breathing) is useful in re-balancing metabolism.
Thyroid is now a days a common ailment in most of the indian ladies.
Thyroid is due to impurity in blood which causes hormonal imbalance and
hence causing a no. of symptoms like weight gain ,anorexia,weakness,
reduced in activity,loss of cheerfullness ect. In hyperthyroidism,
there is increased metabolic activity, high pulse rate and weight loss,
palpitation, in the patient.
