The thyroid, a small butterfly-shaped gland in your neck, plays a significant role in regulating your body's metabolism. Just like other hormonal glands, the thyroid is also quite moody, and its fluctuations have a significant impact on health. When it functions well you feel energetic and balanced. But when it doesn't, it can cause thyroid fatigue, weight fluctuations, and mood swings.
However, till the fluctuations in your thyroid are not too extreme that it demands medical intervention, complementary therapies like a healthy lifestyle boosted by the power of Ayurveda, can provide holistic support to your thyroid health. Talking to the team of OnlyMyHealth, Dr Ganesh Chaudhary, Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS), PHC, Darbhanga, Bihar, shared 8 Ayurveda herbs that can boost your thyroid function.
Ashwagandha
"Ashwagandha is a famous ayurvedic herb that has excellent properties to help your body adapt to stress," said Dr Chaudhary. He shared that taking ashwagandha helps regulate thyroid hormones and balance the Thyroid thyroid-stimulating hormone levels.
Also Read: From Reducing Stress To Weight Management, Here Are Some Health Benefits Of Ashwagandha Milk
Triphala
"Another well-known Ayurvedic herb that was made famous by Baba Ramdev in India is Triphala," informed Dr Chaudhary. Triphala is a blend of three fruits- Amalaki, Bibhitaki, and Haritaki. Apparently, it supports digestion and detoxification, which can indirectly benefit thyroid health by improving nutrient absorption, which strengthens the body and all its processes.
Guggul
Guggul is known for its role in lipid metabolism and may help maintain a healthy weight, which is essential for thyroid health. Dr Chaudhary recommends it for thyroid health as it helps activate the thyroid hormone which is earlier present in an inactive form called thyroxin.
Bladderwrack
Bladderwrack is a type of seaweed, rich in iodine, a crucial mineral for thyroid function. "Iodine deficiency can lead to thyroid imbalances. Bladderwrack can help you with this problem. Just keep in mind to not take too much of this herb as it is overflowing with iodine. Too much iodine in your blood may cause goitre or thyroid cancer," advised Dr Chaudhary.
Also Read: 6 Food Items To Consume For Optimal Thyroid Function
Shilajit
Among the masses, Shilajit is synonymous with sexual health and performance. However, Dr Chaudhary recommends it for thyroid health as well, since it is rich in minerals and fulvic acid, which support energy levels and may indirectly help improve thyroid function.
Brahmi
Next, he shared, "Brahmi, another famous herb which is often used in hair products. Brahmi is known for its calming effects on the nervous system. So taking it if you experience stress and anxiety frequently, can have a positive impact on your overall well-being, and therefore your thyroid health as well."
Kanchanar
Dr Chaudhary also recommended using Kanchanar which is traditionally used to maintain the health of the lymphatic system. He said that Kanchanar has beneficial properties that can reduce thyroid nodules and support your thyroid health.
Also Read: Excessive Daytime Sleepiness Could Mean Thyroid Disorder: Understanding The Cause And Warning Signs
Jatamansi
Concluding his life of essential ayurvedic herbs for thyroid, he said, "Jatamansi is known for its calming and stress-reducing properties. It can be beneficial for individuals with thyroid imbalances caused due to stress.
Including Ayurvedic Herbs In Your Diet
If you are dealing with severe symptoms that point towards a chronic thyroid malfunction, please consult a doctor and get a timely diagnosis and treatment. Complementary therapies are supposed to support your overall well-being and make your immune system tougher, not replace modern medicine.
However, to enhance your immunity, especially your thyroid health, on a day-to-day basis, Dr Chaudhary shared, "The best way to consume these herbs is in a powder form. You can start with one or a combination of herbs and take it with warm milk." However, asking everyone to practice caution, he concluded, "No one is built the same. So it is important to have a personalised approach to health. Make sure you select a certified ayurvedic doctor and safe brands to purchase these herbs and figure out which ones suit you the best and in which quantity."
