Thyroid conditions are manageable with Western medications, but holistic approaches to healing like Ayurveda may also be an option for some individuals. Hypothyroidism can be a serious medical condition, so talk with your doctor about the best way to manage your situation. Before using Ayurvedic herbs or treatments, check with your doctor to avoid any adverse interactions.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a condition in which your thyroid gland does not make adequate amounts of thyroid hormone. Without enough thyroid hormone in the blood, you may experience symptoms like very dry skin, constipation, feeling cold and fatigue. Causes of hypothyroidism can include an autoimmune condition, where the body attacks itself; certain medications; removal of part or all of the thyroid; and radiation treatment. Although there is no cure for the condition, it is controllable. Thyroxine, or T4, is a medication that aids in increasing your thyroid hormones to normal levels for proper bodily functioning, explains Thyroid.org. If you have hyperthyroidism, talk with your doctor about how you can best manage your condition, and go for regular follow-ups to maintain your health.
Ayurveda
Ayurveda is a holistic view of health; the main concept is preventing and treating illness by balancing the body, mind and consciousness, explains the University of Maryland Medical Center. This is achieved with herbal remedies, diet and lifestyle. There are two main types of Ayurveda: traditional and Maharishi. They both use herbs, but Maharishi encourages supreme consciousness as a necessity for health and uses trancendental meditation. Three doshas, or types of people, exist in Ayurvedic medicine, and though people are typically a combination, Ayurvedic practitioners approach treatment from the most prevalent dosha.
Ayurvedic Treatment for Thyroid Conditions
According to Dr. V. V. Lakshmi Prasuna, based on the underlying causes of hypothyroidism, different Ayurvedic approaches may be taken. Antistress herbs, thyroid-stimulating herbs, metabolism-enhancing herbs and herbs for the immune system may all be prescribed. Yoga and pranayama, or deep breathing exercises, may also be recommended. This is not meant to be a cure for hypothyroidism, and may not work for everyone. Before using any Ayurvedic herbs, even from a certified practitioner, ask your doctor whether they are safe to take with the medications you are on.
Considerations
Medical experts advise you not to use Ayurveda as a replacement for Western medicine. Instead, use it as a supplement to your treatment. Talk with your doctor about any herbs you are taking and whether they are safe to use in conjunction with your other medications. Choose a well-educated, professional Ayurvedic practitioner to get the best treatment. Ayurvedic practitioners cannot get licensed, but can go to school for Ayurveda and get a certificate.
