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Endocrine • Ayurveda

Hyperthyroidism (Pitta vṛddhi; goiter Gandamālā)

An overactive thyroid releases excess thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), speeding up metabolism. Ayurveda relates this to aggravated Pitta with Vāta involvement, toxins (āma) and obstruction of channels (srotas) affecting throat/neck.

Sanskrit terms (e.g., Pitta, Vāta, Agni) are always shown.

Definition

Hyperthyroidism is the state of excess thyroid hormone (T4/T3) leading to a high metabolic rate, weight loss, heat intolerance, tremor and palpitations. Thyroid enlargement (goiter) may be present.

In Ayurveda, this pattern aligns with Pitta vṛddhi (increase of the fire principle) often with Vāta association, disturbing Agni (digestive/metabolic fire) and creating āma that obstructs srotas. Goiter corresponds to Gandamālā.

Causes

  • Autoimmune stimulation (Graves’ disease)
  • Toxic nodular or multinodular goiter
  • Thyroiditis (inflammation) with hormone leak
  • Excess iodine or thyroid hormone medication
  • Pitta aggravation via spicy/sour/fried foods, stimulants, excess heat/sun
  • Vāta carrying aggravated Pitta → restlessness, weight loss
  • Agni dysregulation → formation of āma (toxins)
  • Obstruction in rasavaha/udakavaha srotas around the throat region

Symptoms

  • Unintentional weight loss with increased appetite
  • Heat intolerance, sweating, warm moist skin
  • Tremor, palpitations, anxiety, poor sleep
  • Frequent stools; menstrual changes
  • Thyroid enlargement (goiter), neck fullness

Ayurvedic View

Ayurveda sees hyperthyroid patterns as Pitta excess with Vāta participation, depleting rasa and rakta dhātus and disturbing Agni. Management focuses on pacifying Pitta, stabilizing Vāta, clearing āma, and reopening srotas.

Care emphasizes diet and routine, cooling/prāṇāyāma practices, gentle oiling (abhyanga) and appropriate herbs under a qualified practitioner. Modern evaluation (TSH, FT4/FT3, antibodies, imaging) is important to rule out urgent causes (e.g., thyroid storm).

Modern ↔ Ayurvedic mapping

Modern terms

  • Excess thyroid hormones (T4/T3)
  • Autoimmune stimulation (TSH-receptor Ab)
  • Hypermetabolism: heat, tremor, tachycardia

Ayurvedic correlates

  • Pitta vṛddhi; disturbed Agni
  • Doṣha imbalance with āma in srotas
  • Vāta association → restlessness, tissue depletion

Diet & Lifestyle Advice

  • Avoid Pitta-aggravating factors: very spicy, sour, deep-fried foods; alcohol; excessive caffeine.
  • Prefer gently cooling, nourishing meals: whole grains, mung dal khichdi, cucumbers, gourds, leafy greens, sweet fruits.
  • Fats in moderation: ghee/coconut oil can be soothing for Pitta if digestion tolerates.
  • Practice Śītalī/Śītkārī prāṇāyāma, gentle yoga; avoid overheating and vigorous hot yoga.
  • Daily abhyanga with cooling oils (e.g., coconut or brahmi oil) before a warm—not hot—shower.
  • Consistent sleep/wake times; reduce screen and stimulant exposure at night.

Home Remedies

Beverage

Coriander–Fennel Infusion

Lightly crush 1 tsp each coriander and fennel; steep in hot water 10 minutes. Sip warm after meals to soothe Pitta.

Digestive

Cumin–Coriander–Fennel (CCF) Tea

¼ tsp each simmered 5–7 minutes supports gentle digestion and may reduce post-meal heat.

Daily

Amla support

½–1 tsp amla (Indian gooseberry) powder in water once daily for cooling antioxidants, if tolerated.

Note: These are general wellness tips and are not a substitute for medical care. If you have symptoms of hyperthyroidism, seek evaluation. Herbs and iodine intake can interact with thyroid medication.