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Endocrine • Ayurveda

Hypothyroidism (Kapha vṛddhi, Agnimāndya; goiter Gandamālā)

An underactive thyroid produces insufficient thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), slowing metabolism. Ayurveda relates this to increased Kapha, weakened Agni (agnimāndya), āma formation, and obstruction of srotas in the neck region.

Sanskrit terms are always visible.

Definition

Hypothyroidism is low thyroid hormone state (low T4/T3) with reduced metabolic activity, often causing fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, dry skin, constipation, and menstrual changes. Goiter may occur.

In Ayurveda, this pattern reflects Kapha vṛddhi with agnimāndya (weak digestive/metabolic fire), creating āma that obstructs srotas. Neck swelling aligns with Gandamālā.

Causes

  • Autoimmune thyroiditis (Hashimoto’s) in iodine-sufficient regions
  • Iodine deficiency (still a global cause), post-thyroid surgery/ablation
  • Central causes (pituitary/hypothalamic), medications (e.g., amiodarone, lithium)
  • Diet/lifestyle increasing Kapha (heavy, cold, oily, overly sweet foods; low activity)
  • Weak Agni → āma accumulation and srotorodha (channel obstruction)
  • Imbalance of māmsa/meda dhātu with depletion of ojas

Symptoms

  • Lethargy, slowed thinking, low mood
  • Cold hands/feet, sensitivity to cold
  • Constipation, dry/coarse skin, hair fall
  • Weight gain or fluid retention
  • Menstrual irregularity; neck fullness/goiter

Ayurvedic View

Hypothyroid patterns are framed as Kapha dominance with weak Agni, leading to āma and blocked srotas. Care focuses on kindling Agni (dīpana–pācana), reducing excess Kapha, clearing channels, and supporting tissues (rasāyana).

Modern evaluation (TSH, FT4/FT3, thyroid antibodies, imaging when indicated) is essential. If you take levothyroxine, use it on an empty stomach and separate iron/calcium/soy supplements by several hours.

Modern ↔ Ayurvedic mapping

Modern terms

  • High TSH + low FT4 (primary hypothyroidism)
  • Autoimmune thyroiditis (TPO/Tg antibodies)
  • Low metabolic rate: fatigue, weight gain, cold

Ayurvedic correlates

  • Agnimāndya (weak metabolic fire)
  • Kapha vṛddhi with āma in srotas
  • Meda/māmsa dhātu heaviness; low ojas

Diet & Lifestyle Advice

  • Favor warm, light, gently spiced meals to kindle Agni (soups, stews, mung-dal khichdi).
  • Use digestive spices: ginger, cumin, black pepper, cinnamon (as tolerated).
  • Limit heavy, cold, overly sweet/dairy-dense foods that aggravate Kapha.
  • Daily movement: brisk walks, light strength/yoga; regular sleep–wake cycle.
  • Abhyanga with warming oils (e.g., sesame) if not inflamed; warm—not hot—shower.

Home Remedies

Digestive

Trikatu Lite

Pinch of dry ginger + tiny pinch each of black pepper and long pepper (pippalī) in warm water before lunch. (Avoid if you have gastritis/ulcers; consult your clinician.)

Tea

CCF with Ginger

¼ tsp each cumin–coriander–fennel plus a slice of fresh ginger; simmer 7–10 minutes. Sip warm after meals.

Daily

Warm Lemon–Ginger Water

Morning cup to gently stimulate Agni; add honey only when the drink is lukewarm (never hot).

These tips support general wellness and do not replace medical care. Coordinate all herbs/diets with your clinician, especially if you take thyroid medication.