Ayurveda is an ancient natural healing concept based on balancing the body, mind and spirit through nutrition, herbal remedies and yoga/meditation. It has been gaining in popularity over the years because it works.
One of the most powerful aspects of Ayurvedic medicine is the herbal remedies used to treat various symptoms and diseases. There are many herbal therapies that have been found to be highly effectively in the treatment of thyroid disorders, especially hypothyroidism.
The following is a guide to 14 of the most powerful Ayurvedic herbal treatments for hypothyroidism.
Kanchanara
Kanchanara, also known as purple mountain ebony, is used in Ayurvedic medicine for treating hormonal imbalances, swollen lymph nodes, and thyroid disorders. This herb has been shown to prevent and treat hypothyroidism, skin diseases, goiter, cysts, and PCOS. Its analgesic, anti-cancer, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties are backed up by science.
This plant supports thyroid function, aids in weight loss, and fights oxidative damage. It also helps reduce excessive growth of glands and balances thyroxin production. The recommended dosage is 80 milligrams a day. Kanchanara is available in tablet form and can be found in most health stores. Some formulas also contain Guggulu, piper negrum, Bauhinia variegata, and other herbs that support hormonal health.
Jatamansi
Jatamansi is an endangered Ayurvedic herb that enhances memory, supports brain function, and lifts your mood. It’s also referred to as Nardostachys Jatamansi, Musk root, or Himalayan Spikenard. This plant helps in treating thyroid disorders, epilepsy, anxiety, depression, and liver disease. Rich in coumarins and sesquiterpenes, it promotes a good night’s sleep and calms your mind. Due to its ability to relieve stress, Jatamansi improves hypothyroidism symptoms and boosts your energy.
This calming herb is just as effective as most antidepressants. The daily recommended dosage depends n your weight and ranges between 2,700 milligrams to 9,000 milligrams per day. It’s available in capsule form and can be used on long term.
Brahmi
Brahmi or Bacopa monnieri is an Ayurvedic herb with aphrodisiac, antioxidant, and tonic properties. Also known as the herb of grace, it has a stimulatory effect on thyroid function, promotes cardiovascular health, and relieves anxiety. This plant has been used for centuries as a natural digestive aid and cardiac tonic. Its beneficial effects on neurological and psychiatric disorders are well-documented.
Research indicates that brahmi stimulates thyroid function by increasing T4 serum concentrations. It’s particularly effective in the treatment of hypothyroidism. This herb also reduces damage to the liver, promotes healthy skin and hair, and enhances mental focus. It comes in tablet and powder form, but it be also found as a tea and liquid extract. The recommended daily dose is 30 milliliters of syrup (liquid extract) or five to 10 grams of powder.
Guggulu
Guggulu, also referred to as Indian bdellium, enhances thyroid function, purifies the blood, and boosts immunity. Its name comes from Sanskrit and means “protects from disease.” This ancient Ayurvedic remedy is made from the sap of the Commiphora mukul tree and helps in treating atherosclerosis, high cholesterol, arthritis, obesity, and cardiovascular disease.
Studies have found that guggulu improves hypothyroidism symptoms and regulates thyroid function. This resin contains antagonist ligands, myrhhanol A, guggulsterones, and other active compounds that stimulate the conversion of T4 into T3, decrease cholesterol and triglycerides, and boost metabolism. Guggulu is available as powder, capsules, tablets, and liquid extract. The daily recommended dose ranges from 75 milligrams to 500 miligrams depending on the condition that is being treated.
Shilajit
Shilajit is touted as a cure-all. This Ayurvedic remedy supports fertility, increases testosterone levels, and cleanses the body. Basically, it is a resinous, nutrient-dense biomass that occurs naturally in the mountains. Its active compounds boost energy production in your cells, promote rejuvenation, and enhance memory.
This natural cure is widely used in the treatment of hypothyroidism. It has been also shown to enhance the beneficial effects of Ashwagandha, one of the most powerful remedies for thyroid disorders. Shilajit helps your thyroid by balancing hormone levels and detoxifying the body. Depending on your preferences, you can purchase shilajit resin, shilajit powder, or supplements. The recommended dosage is 300 to 500 milligrams per day.
Gokshura
Gokshura, also known as bindii or Tribulus Terrestris, is one of the most researched herbs in the world. This plant enjoys huge popularity among athletes for its testosterone boosting effects. However, anyone can reap its benefits. Gokshura has been shown to relieve stress, support the reproductive system, and provide energy.
This herb has a positive impact on hormone levels and can help treat adrenal fatigue. When used regularly, it maintains healthy testosterone levels, balances the nervous system, and eliminates excess water from the body. Gokshura is available in tablet and powder form. The recommended dosage ranges from two to six grams a day.
Punarnava
Punarnava is a medicinal Ayurvedic herb that grows in India and Asia. Also known as Spreading Hogweed or Gadahapurna, it’s a natural antidote to venom and helps in treating kidney disease, edema, asthma, bronchitis, and urinary tract infections. It is also used as a cure for insomnia, cataracts, skin disorders, and arthritis pain.
Taking 30 milliliters of Punarnava (decoction) twice a day on an empty stomach can improve thyroid function and restore your energy. This herb also reduces the muscle and joint stiffness associated with thyroid disorders, relieves stress, and balances the endocrine system. You can either use it raw, or as a tincture. Punarnava can be mixed with ginger, turmeric, ghee, or honey to amplify its healing power.
Triphala
Triphala is an ancient Ayurvedic formula with healing properties. Also referred to as the nectar of life, it’s made from the dried fruits of Haritaki, Bibhitaki, and Amalaki. This herbal concoction boasts antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-cancer, and detoxifying effects. It aids in weight loss, prevents tumor growth, cleanses the colon, improves eyesight, and fights inflammation.
Touted as one of the best herbal remedies for thyroid dysfunction, triphala boosts your metabolism and stimulates thyroid hormone production. It also helps flush out toxins and increases energy metabolism, making it ideal for people with hypothyroidism. This natural cure is available in tablet, capsule, tincture, and powder form. Capsules and tables are usually taken twice a day. If you use triphala tincture, mix 30 drops with water or fruit juice.
Ashwagandha
The adaptogen herb Ashwagandha has been used since ancient times for its amazing health benefits. Considered one of the most powerful natural cures for thyroid disorders, it offsets the harmful effects of stress, boosts immunity, and stimulates the production of thyroid hormones. It’s beneficial for treating both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.
This remedy supports the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal function and lowers inflammation in your body. It also relieves the symptoms associated with an underactive thyroid, such as fatigue, low energy, and decreased libido. The recommended dosage is three to six grams of dried root daily. Ashwagandha comes in powder, capsule, tea, and tincture form.
Bacopa
Bacopa monnieri, also refereed as brahmi or water hyssop, is a natural brain-boosting remedy that works just as well as most psychotropic drugs. Thus herb helps in treating memory loss, ADHD, Alzheimer’s disease, joint pain, low libido, and thyroid disorders. Due to its adaptogenic properties, it increases your ability to handle stress. Bacopa may also ease depression symptoms and lift your mood.
According to science, this plant supports thyroid health and stimulates the release of T4 at the glandular level. It also boosts thyroid function, detoxifies your body, and improves mental focus. The recommended dosage is 50 to 150 milligrams two or three times a day. Bacopa is available in powder, syrup, and capsule form.
Black Walnut
Black walnut is an excellent source of iodine, flavonoids, and anti-inflammatory compounds. This nut was widely used by the Native Americans for its healing properties. Today, it’s considered a superfood. Most people use black walnut to get rid of parasites, treat skin disorders, and improve cardiovascular health.
Due to its high iodine content, black walnut helps the thyroid gland produce hormones and function at its peak. This natural remedy also reduces toxic load in the body, regulates metabolism, and heals leaky gut. It’s particularly beneficial for people with goiter and hypothyroidism. You can either eat raw black walnuts, or purchase this cure in liquid or capsule form.
Bladderwrack
Bladderwrack is an herb related to kelp, which stimulates the thyroid gland and promotes weight loss. It’s widely used as a natural cure for metabolic disorders, obesity, hypothyroidism, and swollen joints. Rich in iron, calcium, iodine, potassium, and B-complex vitamins, bladderwrack nourishes your body and improves immune function.
This plant has been shown effective in the treatment of iodine deficiency and goiter. It also helps cure underactive thyroid (myxedema), joint pain, heartburn, and digestive problems. Its beneficial effects on the thyroid gland are due to its high iodine content. Most people experience noticeable improvements in their symptoms after taking 500mg of bladderwrack per day. This herb comes in capsule and powder form, and can be found in most health stores.
Bugleweed
Bugleweed, also known as Ajuga reptans, is packed with tannis, phenolic compounds, and flavonoids. It provides relief from anxiety, respiratory disorders, sore throat, insomnia, and hormonal disorders. According to health experts, this plant regulates estrogen levels and supports thyroid function. It’s particularly effective for hyperthyroidism due to its ability to reduce the production of thyroid hormones.
In alternative medicine, this herb is used as a remedy for breast pain, sleep disorders, and PMS. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties are highly prized. Bugleweed is available as tea, liquid extract, and capsules. The recommended dosage is 40 milligrams, or four to eight drops of tincture per day.
Echinacea
Echinacea is best known for its ability to boost the immune system and protect against flu. This plant was commonly used by Native Americans for its health benefits. The phytochemicals in echinacea can help prevent brain cancer, relieve pain, and lower inflammation. Phenols protect your cells from oxidative damage and help flush out toxins from your body.
This herb has been effective for treating autoimmune thyroid disorders, such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and Graves’ disease. Evidence shows that echinacea stimulates the TH-1 pathway, balances hormone levels, and improves thyroid function. This natural cure is available in capsule, powder, and liquid form. The recommended dosage is .5 to 1 grams dried root or tea per day, 0.25 to 1.25 milliliters liquid extract, or 300 milligrams of powder daily.
As you can see, there is true power behind the herbs and remedies used in Aruyvedic medicine. Take control of your health by continuing to do further research into the herbal treatments that you feel will address your current symptoms. It is recommended that you present the information to a Naturopath or Aruyvedic practitioner to explore how the various combinations can help your thyroid and restore your health.
