Abstract

AN AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT IN HYPOTHYROIDISM: A CASE STUDY

Dr. Madhuri S. Todkari*, Dr. R. S. Dhimdhime, Dr. M. C. Kirte, Dr. P. S. Lohale, Dr. S. S. Patil

Abstract

Thyroid gland is one of the endocrine glands. It secretes 3 hormones which are tetraiodothyronine i.e. T4, tri-iodothyronine i.e. T3 and calcitonin. These hormones are required for normal functioning and metabolism of every cells of body. Hence their deficiencies hamper many systems in body. Thyroid diseases are most prevalent in daily OPD. Its prevalence is increased from 1:100 to 5:100. It is most common in female than male. Most common thyroid diseases are thyrotoxicosis (Grave’s disease), myxoedema in adults, creatinism in children and goitre. In hyperthyroidism TSH level is decreased and T4- T3 level increased. In hypothyroidism TSH level is increased and T4- T3 level decreased. Hypothyroidism is not directly mentioned in Ayurvedic classics. But it can be correlated with many conditions. In modern medicine hypothyroidism is treated with thyroxine therapy for lifelong time. It starts with 25mcg/day. Now a day, we can get TSH level down with modern medicine. But it has many side effects. It has been observed and proved that thyroid diseases are well treated by Ayurvedic medicine and Panchakarma procedures. These drugs not only treat symptoms but also treat the main root cause of that diseases. In the present case study, the patient came in the Panchakarma OPD with complaints of weight gain, swelling all over body, headache, constipation, recurrent cough & cold for 2 years. Kanchnara (Bauhinia variegata) is the choice of drug for the study.[1] Along with internal medicine Panchakarma procedure like Virechana (therapeutic purgation), Sthanika Lepa (local application), Nasya karma also done. In this case study the effect of Ayurvedic management in hypothyroidism is evaluated.

Keywords: Kanchnara Guggul, Lepa, Nasya, Panchakarma, primary hypothyroidism, Virechana.