Ayurvedic Panchakarma Therapy For An Underactive Thyroid

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Ayurveda is an effective holistic therapy for an Underactive Thyroid (also known as under-active thyroid), which is characterized by insufficient production of thyroid hormones in the body. Presence of thyroid disease in the body makes someone susceptible to any disease and chronic symptoms. Moreover, Ayurvedic treatments like Panchakarma Therapy for an underactive Thyroid detoxify and rejuvenate the body as it gets rid of chronic symptoms of an Underactive Thyroid.

Panchakarma (Five actions) is an Ayurvedic detoxification process that claims to maintain vitality and harmony within the body to achieve longevity and healthy life. It claims to help the body to remove stress and illness-causing toxins and will help to balance life forces or dosha. Panchakarma aims on the prevention of disease, restoration of good health and rejuvenation of the body.

Here are the benefits of this alternative and Ayurvedic remedy for an underactive thyroid:

  • Elimination of harmful toxins
  • Restore balance, vitality and harmony within one’s environment
  • Strengthen immune defense to illness and stress
  • Reverse the harmful effects of oxidation process in the body
  • Delay aging process
  • Enhance strength, vitality, energy and mental capacity
  • Relaxation techniques
  • Promote good health and sense of well-being

Moreover, this Ayurvedic treatment for Underactive Thyroid includes five detoxification actions to cleanse the body to get rid of toxins and maintain optimal body function while balancing the doshas.

Panchakarma includes five Detoxification process such as the following: [1]

1.      Vamana (Medicated Emesis)

Vamana is a therapeutic emesis to remove buildup of toxins in the body and respiratory tract. A sign of excessive Kapha dosha in the body is mucus accumulation.  Vamana helps to eliminate excess mucus through induced vomiting. This treatment helps to mobilize and loosen harmful toxins in the body. Vamana benefits people with asthma, sinusitis, edema, fever, hyperacidity, allergies and indigestion. [2]

2.      Virechana (Medicated Purgation)

Virechana is a therapeutic purification process. With the use of different herbs as a laxative, it induces elimination of wastes through the rectum.  It is usually performed on people with excess Pitta dosha in their body. The therapy helps to eliminate accumulated toxins specifically in the liver, gallbladder and gastrointestinal tract. [3]

3.      Basti / Vasti (Medicated Enema)

Basti therapy is a therapeutic Vata purification process. It aims to mobilize excess vata in the large intestine. Medicated liquids or enema is introduced into the colon through the rectum. This benefits people with constipation, low back pain, gout, arthritis and poliomyelitis. [4]

4.      Nasya (Medication through Nose)

Nasya is a therapeutic process to eliminate toxins from the head. Herbs or drugs are introduced on nostrils on a daily basis. It cleanses and opens clogged channels in the head to promote healthy sensory organs. It also improves oxygenation process in the brain. It also benefits different diseases in the brain like cataract, coryza, migraine, toothache, sinusitis, hysteria and tetanus. [5]

5.      Raktamokshana (Blood Letting)

Raktamokshana is the therapeutic withdrawal of blood in the body. It is very limited due to high risk of infection. In this therapy, a professional withdraws a small amount of blood with surgery or a lab-sterile leech.

However, there are several preparations before doing this detoxifying therapy, such as snehana (external oliation of the body) and swedana (medicated steaming). Snehana is the first step to prepare the body using an oil massage to the body. It will help to loosen and remove the toxins from the body. Swedana uses a steaming technique with herbal decoction to further loosen the toxins.

The classic schedule for Panchakarma therapy includes:

  • 1st to 3rd Day – Snehana
  • 3rd – 6th Day – Swedana
  • 7th Day – Vamana
  • 8th – 10th Day – Observance of rest and healing diet
  • 10th – 14th Day – Snehapana
  • 15th Day – Virechana
  • 16th – 23rd Day – Basti
  • 24th – 26th Day – Observance of rest and healing diet
  • 27th – 30th Day – Nasya

Moreover,Ayurvedic Diet Food specialized diet based on one’s condition should be given while on Panchakarma therapy to achieve a full effect.

Panchakarma therapy depends on the diagnosis of a patient’s Ayurvedic practitioner. The Ayurvedic practitioner decides which therapy will suit his patient’s Underactive Thyroid. Treatment will vary according to each person’s individuality and needs. Results will depend on how the patient’s body reacts to particular detoxification processes.

Hence, Panchakarma therapy is designed to cater the needs of every individual in terms of disease and survival. This ancient Ayurvedic technique will help patients through the painful process of an underactive thyroid. It also strengthens the body as one achieves a healthy and illness-free life.

REFERENCES:

[1] Panchakarma. Wikipedia. Retrieved October 11, 2012.

[2] Vamana Therapy. I love India. Retrieved October 11, 2012.

[3] Virechana Therapy. I love India. Retrieved October 11, 2012.

[4]Basti. Ayurved Guru. Retrieved October 11, 2012.

[5]Nasya Karma. I love India. Retrieved October 11, 2012.

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Yograj-Guggulu An Ayurvedic Remedy For An Underactive Thyroid

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Hypothyroidism is the inability of your thyroid gland to produce enough thyroid hormones to support and achieve optimal daily functioning.  Thyroid hormones are very important in metabolism, growth and development.  A combination of herbs known in Ayurvedic medicine as Yograj – Guggulu is claimed to be a treatment for an underactive thyroid.

Ayurveda aims to treat the basic pathology and its accompanying symptoms.  Ayurvedic medicine bases treatment on identifying disturbances of any three life forces or dosha.  Ayurvedic practitioners treat various symptoms and diseases by enhancing and maintaining a balanced amount of life forces to maintain vitality and harmony.

Yograj – Guggulu is an Ayurvedic remedy for an underactive thyroid that acts mainly as an anti – inflammatory and powerful antioxidant. It is widely used to reduce excess Vata in your body and help maintain a healthy metabolism. It also strengthens your immune system, skeletal, nervous and muscular system. [1]

Guggulu is also known as Indian Bedellium or Gum Guggul.  Guggulu is a Sanskrit name which means saver from diseases.  Other Latin names for Guggulu are balsamodendrum mukul and balsamodenrum wightii.

Yograj – Guggulu is a combination of plant guggulu (Commiphora mukul) which is a gum resin and the following herbs: [2]

  • Chitraka (Plumbago et al.)
  • Pippali moola  (Piper longum)
  • Yavani (Hyoscyamus niger)
  • Vidanga (Embelia ribes)
  • Krishnajeeraka (Nigella sativa)
  • Ajamoda (Apium graveolens)
  • Jeeraka(Cuminum cyminum)
  • Devadaru (Cedrus deodar)
  • Chavya (Piper chaba)

Treatment for Underactive Thyroid

An Ayurvedic remedy for an underactive thyroid such as Yograj – Guggulu can help you alleviate the symptoms of an underactive thyroid such as:

  • Weight Gain and Obesity – It increases fat burning activity and your metabolic rate to shed extra pounds with the help of proper exercise and nutrition.  [3]
  • Increase Sensitivity to Cold – It increases heat production or thermogenesis.  It will be your shield to extreme cold temperature and increase your resistance to hypothermia. [4]
  • Anxiety and Panic Attacks – It possesses a calming effect that soothes your nerves and muscles.
  • Irregular Menstruation and Infertility – It has a uterine stimulant  that tends to normalize menstrual cycles and helps treat infertility in women with an underactive thyroid.  [3]
  • Susceptibility to colds and sore throat – It has powerful antioxidant properties that help prevent bacteria and viruses from wreaking havoc on your body.  [3]
  • Joint Pain and Muscle Cramps – Excess Vata may accumulate in your joints and muscles leading to pain, cramps and stiffness.  Yograj-Guggulu will help remove excess Vata from your body to relieve joint pain and cramps.  [3]

This combination of Ayurvedic remedies for an underactive thyroid should be not be taken with any other thyroid medications unless under your health care professional’s supervision.  Yograj-gugulu may increase your thyroid hormone production, which can lead to hyperthyroidism or an overactive thyroid.  This Ayurvedic remedy for an underactive thyroid may potentiate the effects of Aspirin, Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, Warfarin and Coumadin.

An Ayurvedic remedy of an underactive thyroid may be used as a substitute for, or an adjunct with, many conventional treatments like over the counter medicines, surgery and radiation.  If you wish to try Yograj – Guggulu to treat your underactive thyroid, consult a health care professional.

REFERENCES:

[1] Yograj Guggulu. Satveda. Retrieved October 7, 2012.

[2] Simha, KR Gopala, V. Laxminarayana, et al. Standardisation of Yogaraja Guggulu. Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge. July 2008.

[3]Yograj Guggulu. Herbs Forever. Retrieved October 9, 2012.

[4]Guggul. Ayurveda Medicinal Herb. Retrieved October 9, 2012.

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Naturopathic Treatment of Hypothyroidism

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Hypothyroidism is closely monitored throughout the United States and nearby countries because of its high incidence in non-coastal areas. Almost twenty seven million Caucasians have some level of a thyroid disease. [1] Hypothyroidism is the inability of the thyroid gland to produce hormones like thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3).  There are several general schools-of-treatment for hypothyroidism available nowadays such as allopathic means, naturopathic, alternative, Ayurvedic and more.  However, naturopathic treatment of hypothyroidism is the leading treatment of choice for thyroid diseases in some states in the US.

Naturopathy or Naturopathic Medicine is classified as a branch of alternative medicine that espouses vitalism, that every individual has an inner force, which guides his or her bodily mechanism.  Every individual has a unique force that directs their metabolism, adaptation to stress and injury, growth and development.  [2]

There are two types of naturopathic practitioners:

  • Traditional naturopaths
  • Naturopathic doctors

In the US, naturopathic doctors utilize conventional medicine with naturopathy throughout their mode of treatment. They:

  1. spend more time with every patient,
  2. assessing every little detail of their medical history and
  3. treat every pain and injury as unalike from other human beings.

They believe that the body has certain connections on its part and functions are interrelated.  They treat every individual unique from every other and may manifest different symptoms.  During the naturopathic treatment, every individual has a unique bodily process in stress adaptation as well as optimal healing.  Treatment will vary in terms of naturopathic means such as the use of herbal medicine, natural remedies, supplements, nutritional and lifestyle therapy.

NATUROPATHY AS A TREATMENT OF HYPOTHYROIDISM

The use of naturopathic medicine as a treatment of hypothyroidism is a well–recognized means of alternative medicine.  Naturopathic doctors assess individual patients detail by detail.  They may spend two to three hours during health and physical assessments and talk to their patient very often.  Diagnosis varies from person to person.  They are very different from general medicine because diagnosis in the latter considers a higher range of Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) in the blood. But the recommended range should be around on the upper limit of 3.0 than the old range of 5.0. [3]This newer and lower range will pave the way to diagnose patients with hypothyroidism and reduce undiagnosed and untreated cases.

Naturopathic practitioners believe in the essentiality of the following in diagnosing patients with thyroid disease:

  • Blood tests such as TSH, Free T3, and Free T4 levels in the blood
  • Hormonal levels such as cortisol and estrogen
  • Condition of the Adrenal glands
  • Nutrition and Lifestyle [4]

Low levels of Thyroid stimulating hormones in the blood alarms naturopaths that their patient may be a candidate for hypothyroidism because the pituitary gland does not stimulate the thyroid gland to produce sufficient hormones to maintain optimal function.  However, they will assess the patients considering the symptoms and other blood tests.

Estrogen imbalance can lead to impaired function of the thyroid gland and balance between the thyroid hormones.  Also, nutritional intake is essential during early diagnosis and treatment of hypothyroidism. Since Iodine deficiency is the leading cause of hypothyroidism around the world. Dietary intake of zinc, antioxidants and supplements is further evaluated as it is necessary for adequate thyroid functioning.

Lastly, adrenal glands play a vital role in thyroid functioning.  The adrenal gland serves as a hormone regulator and stress regulator.  Malfunction of the adrenal glands can negate the impact of stress in the body leading to thyroid dysfunction.

Naturopathic doctors believe in the necessity of treating the disease in relationship with other vital organs.  They believe in the balance of all inner forces within every individual. Once, there is an imbalance, the other parts of the body will manifest injury, pain and illness. In order to treat hypothyroidism, the naturopaths will determine which parts of the body or bodily process are altered, injured or stressed out. They need to determine the main cause of imbalance then proceed to a natural treatment of hypothyroidism based on actual diagnosis of every individual.

Furthermore, naturopathic doctors consider differences of every individual to prevent worsening of the condition.  They are keen evaluators of the disease to prevent mishap or even death.  They adhere to the strict guidelines of naturopathic medicine.  Incorrect treatment with herbs, supplements, hormones and medication may lead to overproduction of thyroid hormones in turn leading to a more serious consequences or disorder.

Individualized approach by naturopathic doctors is clearly an excellent treatment of hypothyroidism that caters the needs of every patient to a healthy and longer life.  Optimal functioning is achieved in naturopathy through inner balance of every bodily process.  The balancing is important to prevent or treat any imbalances in turn promoting a nurturing and nourishing life.

REFERENCES:

[1] Lowrance, Jim. How many Americans Suffer Thyroid Disorders. Suite 101. July 31, 2009.

[2] Sarris, J., and Wardle, J. 2010. Clinical naturopathy: an evidence-based guide to practice. Elsevier Australia. Chatswood, NSW. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naturopathy

[3] Shomon, Mary. New Guidelines Say Millions More Are at Thyroid Risk. June 03, 2009.

[4] Shomon, Mary. A Naturopathic View on Thyroid and Hormone Balance. May 01, 2012.

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Hypothyroidism-Possible Link To Diabetes

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Almost 11 million people suffer from hypothyroidism and related disorders.  Hypothyroidism or underactive thyroid is the decreased production of thyroid hormones in the body, which is necessary for metabolism and normal thyroid function.  It is more common in women in their reproductive age than men. In addition, it may be caused by iodine deficiency, an inactive pituitary gland, thyroid cancer, thyroid abnormalities, anti – thyroid drugs and thyroid radiation.

The symptoms of a failing thyroid vary in onset, duration and severity.  Hypothyroid sufferers usually experience increased sensitivity to cold, weakness, fatigue, dry and brittle hair, constipation, weight gain, and depression, heavy and irregular menstruation.  [1] If hypothyroidism is undiagnosed and untreated it may lead to heart disease, cancer, diabetes and obesity.

HYPOTHYROIDISM LINK TO DIABETES

Diabetes is a chronic disease characterized by inability of the body to produce insulin or your cells do not respond to insulin.  An underactive thyroid along with lifestyle and heredity can cause it.  The prevalence rate of diabetic patients with an underactive thyroid is 36% than people with an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) with 12%.  [2] In the US alone, there are 190,000 people who die from diabetes and diabetes related illness every year. [3]

Moreover, diabetes and underactive thyroid are both considered endocrine disorders with both being hormonal imbalances. Diabetes is an insulin imbalance while the latter have thyroxine and triiodothyronine imbalance.

A failing thyroid is the umbrella disease for obesity and diabetes.  Once you develop an underactive thyroid, your body’s metabolic rate will slow.  You will likely gain weight because of your bodies inability to metabolize the food you eat.  Severe weight gain can lead to obesity which can be a predisposing factor for diabetes. If left untreated it can worsen diabetic symptoms and if left undiagnosed it can aggravate diabetes and may be fatal for the person.

UNDERACTIVE THYROID AFFECTS DIABETIC CONTROL

Another point, diabetic patients develop underactive thyroid throughout the course of the disease.  Studies show that underactive thyroids have an effect on diabetes control.  People on diabetic medication may experience low blood sugar levels throughout the day.  It is usually caused by insulin that stays longer and remains active in the blood due to a lower rate of metabolism.  See your health care professional if severe blood sugar levels occurs during medication.  They may discontinue or taper the drug to prevent diabetic complications.

Low blood sugar or hypoglycemia may worsen the condition of the patient.  It is advisable to contact your health care provider if the following symptoms appear:

  • Anxiety
  • Sweating
  • Palpitation
  • Intense Hunger
  • Trembling

Severe low blood sugar can lead to seizures, coma and even death.  Therefore, it is highly important to note the symptoms of hypoglycemia to prevent further complications and respond quickly if the symptoms appear.  Sodas, juices and sugar candies can be used for emergency cases. And check your blood sugar level after 15 minutes.

Diabetics also suffering from hypothyroidism usually have an increased risk for heart disease due to increased levels of cholesterol, LDL and triglycerides.

REFERENCES:

[1] Hypothyroidism. National Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases Information. February 2012.

[2]  Wu, Patricia. Thyroid Disease and Diabetes. Clinical Diabetes. American Diabetes Association VOL. 18 NO. 1 Winter. 2000.

[3] Thyroid Statistics. National Thyroid Institute. Retrieved August 8, 2012.

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Coconut Oil On Underactive Thyroid Treatment

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Causes of Underactive Thyroid

Underactive Thyroid or Hypothyroidism happens when the thyroid hormone production is very low. It is usually caused by malfunctioning or absence of thyroid glands due to tumor, and not working pituitary glands. However, Iodine deficiency especially living in non-coastal areas experienced hypothyroidism due to insufficient intake of iodine in their diet.

Diet plays a major role in thyroid diseases. People with hypothyroidism try to increase their salt intake but it doesn’t solve the problem alone.  Some foods can block the absorption of iodine like soybean oil and peanut butter. It is widely used in processed foods and utilize as a vegetable oil so this might be the reason why there are increasing number of people with thyroid disease.

Signs and symptoms of an underactive thyroid vary with onset and duration. Some may experience increased sensitivity to cold, dry skin, brittle nails, hoarse voice, constipation and inability to sleep.

An underactive thyroid is reported to be one of the number one causes of weight problems for women in the United States today. [1]

Help For Those with Low Thyroid

Researchers have found out that Virgin Coconut Oil can help people with hypothyroidism. It boosts their energy level and chances to live better and healthier. But it is advisable to combine it with a good balanced diet and low glycemic foods. It can help to boost stamina, balance hormone levels, and maintain stability and energy of patient with hypothyroidism. Also, it aids in body regulation through its weight loss benefits. And many people tried this product and it is recommended because the benefits outweigh the risk.

Coconut Oil: Healthy For the Thyroid

Coconut oil is a food supplement from natural sources and it is considered one of the reliable natural remedies in the world. It contains medium chain poly saturated fatty acids. It doesn’t block iodine or cause damage to the thyroid glands compared to process oil such soy bean oil and refine oil. It has long oxidation process in the body and maintains its shelf life for several months. Short oxidation of some oils can damage our body and become rancid after several days like the oil we have in our kitchen. It was found out that this oil has thermogenic properties that increase body temperature thus raising the metabolic rate that promote weight loss.

Can Coconut Oil Cure Hypothyroidism?

There’s no evidence that coconut oil can actually cure thyroid problems. It may alleviate and ease the signs of symptoms of hypothyroidism. It gives them possible relief from suffering and cut their expenses from expensive thyroid medications.

However,  Dr. Fife warns people on thyroid medication to consult their health care provider once they start taking the oil and seeing results, because the supplements they are taking can be too high for their deficiency since the oil can increase the proper functioning of the thyroid gland. [2]

Warnings

Some cases that coconut oil is prohibited because it contains saturated fat. It is not advisable to take the oil if you are going to limit your fat intake. Good quality oil is recommended and guidance of your health care provider is barely needed.

Furthermore, coconut oil cannot cure the disease rather alleviate the suffering of the patients with hypothyroidism. It is necessary to take into consideration that before taking the supplements, notify your health care provider. Because some patients have heart disease that include a low fat diet to prevent an attack.

[1] Thyroid Health and The Coconut Diet http://www.coconutdiet.com/thyroid_health.htm

[2] Thyroid Diet Plan. March 31, 2012. http://thyroiddietplan.com/2012/03/31/coconut-oil-for-thyroid-diet/

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