An Ayurvedic outlook on Hypothyroidism with special reference to Khale Kapota Nyaya and its treatment proposal

Abstract

Introduction: Hypothyroidism, where the thyroid gland fails to exhibit its normal function is a common disease in the present era. The prevalence of self-reported goitre or thyroid disorder in National Family Health Survey IV [NFHS IV (2015-2016)] was 2.2%, while it was 2.9% in NFHS-V (2019-2021).The common symptoms of hypothyroidism are general weakness, hair loss, weight gain despite of normal or poor appetite, cold intolerance, aches and pains, muscle stiffness, irregular menstruation, mental disturbances. It is managed by supplementing synthetic thyroxine hormone of intended dose. Symptoms of thyroid disease can be correlated to Dathwagni mandhya janya rogas.

Materials and Methods: An appraisal on Ayurvedic classics to describe thr pathology and presentations of hypothyroidism and to confer about its treatment modalities and some effective formulations.

Results and Discussion: When Dhathwagni is diminished dathu poshana is impaired. Therefore normalizing the former will accelerate latter. Pathogenensis of Hypothyroidism may be explained through the theory of Dathu poshana explained in Ayurvedic classics. Pachana by dathwagni leads to Sara-kitta vibhajana, where this sara is accepted by the corresponding dathu and kitta is transported to the succeeding dathu. The treatment thus chosen must influence on those subtle level which can relieve the srotodushti. Implementing such treatment principles and formulations are expected to have effect on multiple systems of body. Thereby the deranged body metabolism can be revised and restored. Analysing the symptoms of Hypothyroidism the treatment etiquette should emphasis on normalising Tridoshas (vridha Vata-Kapha dosha and mandha Pitta dosha). The treatment principles include Srotosodhana, Vatanulomana, Agni vardhana, Amahara. Some effective formulations in treating hypothyroidism are Sthiraadi yoga Lokanatha Rasa,  Varanadi gana, Hamsapathyaadi Kashayam, Kanchanara guggulu, Kautaja triphala Sapatasaram kashayam and Dadimadi gritham

Conclusion: Ayurvedic correlation of Hypothyroidism is taken into concern. The pathogenesis is proposed based on Dathu Poshana Nyaya , which points out the importance of Jadaragni and Dathwagni in preserving normal metabolic activities. An altered metabolic activity leads to impaired nourishment of dathus. The treatment principles and formulations mentioned for its treatment is based normalizing jadaragni and dathwagni. Such a treatment strategy can assure best results.