Management of Hypothyroidism Through Ayurveda

Abstract

Hypothyroidism is a common endocrine disorder characterized by reduced thyroid hormone production, leading to metabolic slowing and impaired quality of life. In Ayurveda, hypothyroidism can be correlated with Galganda, where vitiation of Kapha Dosha along with Agnimandya and formation of Ama plays a key role in disease pathogenesis. This case study evaluates the effect of Trivrita Avaleha based Virechana Karma in the management of hypothyroidism. A 28-year-old female patient with a 5-year history of hypothyroidism presented with complains of weight gain, lethargy, fatigue, constipation, and breathlessness on exertion. She was on thyroxine 75mcg per day prior to treatment. After Deepana–Pachana for 3 days, Snehapana with Goghrita was administered for 5 days, followed by Virechana Karma using Trivrita Avaleha. Clinical assessment showed marked improvement in symptoms such as lethargy, fatigue, bowel irregularity, appetite, and sleep. Biochemically, serum TSH reduced from 9.73µIU/mL before treatment to 4.21µIU/mL after Virechana Karma. Free T4 improved from 0.89ng/dL to 1.10ng/dL, while Free T3 remained within normal limits (3.63–3.91pg/mL). Based on clinical and biochemical improvement, the thyroxine dose was reduced from 75mcg to 50mcg without any adverse effects. The findings suggest that Trivrita Avaleha Virechana helps in correcting metabolic imbalance by improving Agni, reducing Ama, and restoring Dosha Samya. This case highlights the potential role of Shodhana Chikitsa as a safe and holistic adjunct approach in the management of hypothyroidism rather than increasing dose of thyroxine.