Hyperthyroidism – Can Ayurveda Help with Overactive Thyroid Symptoms?

Question

For the past several months, I’ve been feeling like my body is completely out of control. My heart races even when I’m just sitting down, I sweat excessively even in cool weather, and I’ve lost a lot of weight despite eating like crazy. The worst part is the constant anxiety and restlessness—I can’t focus on anything, and I feel on edge all the time.

I finally went to the doctor, and after some blood tests, they told me I have hyperthyroidism. My TSH levels are extremely low, and my T3 and T4 are way too high. The doctor said this means my thyroid is overactive and producing too many hormones. They prescribed medication, but I’m scared to start because I’ve read that the treatment for hyperthyroidism can eventually lead to an underactive thyroid, requiring lifelong medication.

I started looking into natural ways to manage hyperthyroidism, and I found that Ayurveda has treatments that focus on balancing the body’s energies. But I’m not sure where to start. Are there specific herbs or dietary changes that can help slow down thyroid function? I’ve heard that foods like cabbage and broccoli might help, but I don’t know if that’s enough.

Also, my hands tremble sometimes, and my sleep has been terrible since this started. Can Ayurveda help with these specific hyperthyroidism symptoms, or do I have to take conventional medicine no matter what?

I would really love to hear from anyone who has managed hyperthyroidism naturally. Is it possible to control this condition with Ayurveda without ending up with hypothyroidism?

Dr Sujal Patil · Answer

Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland overproduces hormones (T3 and T4), leading to an accelerated metabolism. The symptoms you’re experiencing—rapid heartbeat, excessive sweating, anxiety, weight loss, tremors, and sleep disturbances—are classic signs of an overactive thyroid. While conventional medicine aims to suppress thyroid hormone production, Ayurveda focuses on balancing Pitta dosha (associated with heat, metabolism, and energy) and calming the nervous system to bring the body back to equilibrium.

Ayurvedic herbs like Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), and Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis) help regulate thyroid function and reduce symptoms like anxiety and restlessness. Ashwagandha, in particular, is known to support the endocrine system and modulate thyroid hormones, though it should be used cautiously in hyperthyroid cases. Cooling herbs like Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia) and Licorice (Yashtimadhu) can also help soothe the body and support adrenal function, which is often impacted in hyperthyroidism.

Diet plays a crucial role in managing thyroid overactivity. Ayurveda recommends avoiding spicy, pungent, and heating foods like chili, caffeine, and fried foods while incorporating cooling, grounding foods like cooked vegetables, whole grains, coconut, dairy (if tolerated), and seeds like flaxseeds and sesame. Goitrogenic foods like cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower can naturally slow thyroid function, but they should be lightly cooked before consumption. Practicing meditation, gentle yoga (especially forward bends and cooling poses like Shavasana), and Pranayama (such as Sheetali and Anulom Vilom breathing) can significantly help manage symptoms like racing thoughts, tremors, and sleep issues. Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to hyperthyroidism, but if your levels are extremely high, it’s best to work alongside your doctor to monitor progress and ensure safety.

Hyperthyroidism – Can Ayurveda Help with Overactive Thyroid Symptoms? - #15964

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