What is hypothyroidism and how it affects the body

Hypothyroidism – it sounds like a villain from a comic book, but this sly and sinister antagonist is a medical condition, lurking within some of us. You see, our thyroid gland is a bit of a maestro in the biological orchestra, conducting the tempo of our body’s metabolism. Now, when this maestro decides to take it slow, the entire symphony of bodily functions is reduced to a lethargic crawl. This phenomenon, my friends, is hypothyroidism. The unfortunate receiver of this condition will have to live through the unpleasant experiences of weight gain, and/or mental sluggishness. As these effects unfold, the importance of seeking treatment becomes vital, lest one becomes a prisoner to the impacts of their own body’s idleness.

Improving Your Thyroid

If you have hypothyroidism, you are probably thinking about ways of improving your thyroid.  Hypothyroidism is when the thyroid glands’ hormone production slows down. Hypothyroidism is also called underactive thyroid. This is when the thyroid gland doesn’t make enough thyroid hormone thyroxine to meet your body’s needs. Thyroxine is the main hormone secreted into the bloodstream by the thyroid gland. It plays a vital roles in digestion, heart and muscle function, brain development and maintenance of bones.

As a result of hypothyroidism, the metabolism of the body slows down. A person who has hypothyroidism tends to gain weight. There is no real “cure” for hypothyroidism. A thyroid diagnosis is the sign of a relatively sedentary lifestyle. Yes, hypothyroid is not a disease but a lifestyle disorder.  There are a small number of people  who may have a propensity towards hypothyroidism (Studies suggest that 2 to 5 percent of cases are inherited), but for the most part “modern medicine is clueless as to the cause”.  However, Ayurvedic practitioners have identified this as a lifestyle disorder.  Changing lifestyle is far more difficult than taking a pill every day.  Changes to this condition have been evident with lifestyle changes…the most difficult thing for humans to do. We are attached to our habits, including our food habits, our exercise habits, our breathing habits, and our thinking habits.

This article provides some easy remedies for thyroid patients to follow, things that they can practice at home that will help to control thyroid.

Hypothyroidism in Ayurvedic Medicine

In my studies of Ayurvedic medicine, I found that the thyroid, while secreting hormones your body needs, it is also linked most with the increase biological energies that govern the physical and mental processes in the human body. We control the thyroid by balancing the energies of the body and correcting the circulation of thyroxin hormone in the body using various techniques.

Hypothyroid and Aromatherapy

Are you feeling tired, sluggish, and unfulfilled? If so, you could be one of the many people suffering from hypothyroidism. This condition can have a debilitating effect on your daily life and leave you feeling frustrated with other traditional treatments. There may be some hope for relief though. Aromatherapy is an increasingly popular solution for naturally handling thyroid conditions that is worth exploring. With aromatherapy, individuals looking to heal themselves naturally can benefit from being able to reduce feelings of fatigue, improving Thyroxin production, relax their bodies and boost moods simultaneously through a variety of natural scents. In this blog post, we’ll explore what aromatherapy has to offer hypothyroidism sufferers and the best available remedies they should try!

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Aromatherapy as a natural remedy for treating symptoms of hypothyroidism

Aromatherapy, a burgeoning holistic practice, has piqued the interest of those seeking natural remedies for various ailments, including hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland, a hormone-producing powerhouse, begins to slack off on its duties, resulting in fatigue, weight gain, and depression. Fear not, my weary friends, as aromatherapy harnesses the therapeutic potential of essential oils to alleviate these pesky symptoms without enlisting the aid of pharmaceuticals. Precious elixirs derived from plants, these oils can be diffused, inhaled, or massaged into the skin as part of a well-rounded self-care ritual. With an array of essential oils whispering promises of vitality, balancing hormones, and uplifting moods, giving aromatherapy a chance might just offer that beacon of hope for hypothyroidism warriors seeking refuge in the embrace of Mother Nature.

Rose geranium oil has been used as a proven anti-inflammatory agent in clinical trialsTrusted Source. Inflammation related to an underactive thyroid can be addressed by topically applying a few drops of rose geranium oil. It may also help anxiety related to hypothyroidism.

Essential Oils that can help bring better balance to your hormones by regulating thyroid function

Essential oils, nature’s very own botanical extracts, have been garnering attention for their powerful effects on improving hormonal balance, specifically by regulating thyroid function. The thyroid gland, crucial for maintaining our overall well-being, plays a significant role in the production of hormones that govern metabolism, growth, and development. Among the most effective essential oils for supporting thyroid health are lemongrass, frankincense, and myrrh. Lemongrass oil, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, can aid in reducing thyroid-related inflammation and alleviating symptoms. Frankincense oil, with its powerful compounds called sesquiterpenes, may help increase oxygen flow to the brain and modulate thyroid hormones. Myrrh oil, another therapeutic oil that works synergistically with frankincense, is believed to provide support to the hypothalamus, pituitary, and thyroid glands, ensuring a harmonious balance. By incorporating these essential oils into a daily routine, one can potentially bring about remarkable changes in their hormonal balance and overall health.

Improving Circulation of Thyroxin

To improve the circulation of thyroxin hormone in the body. To do this consider taking the following actions:

1. Aromatherapy works within the endocrine system. The Thyroid is part of that system.  NIH research shows that Aromatherapy reduces fatigue among women with hypothyroidism: A randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial
2. Consume foods that are rich in fiber like bananas, spinach, beans and legumes. You should not skip lunch or dinner and should divide what you eat in a day into three-four meals.
3. Avoid eating packaged foods, dried or fried foods and foods made gram flour and all-purpose flour. They can create an imbalance of the thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH).
4. Thyroid patients are advised to practice Pranayama/breathing techniques, as this can balance and help control thyroid problems. Pranayama can regulate the functions of the thyroid gland as well as the brain.
5. Aromatherapy can include Rose Geranium, Lemongrass, and Frankincense

Other lifestyle changes you can make to improve thyroid function

In addition to medical treatments, making significant lifestyle adjustments can greatly enhance thyroid function and overall well-being. These changes begin with a well-balanced diet that involves consuming nutrient-dense foods, such as whole grains, lean proteins, and vegetables, while limiting processed and refined foods. Another important factor to consider is regular exercise; engaging in moderate aerobic and strength training activities can positively influence thyroid hormone production and help maintain a healthy weight. Furthermore, effective stress management practices, like mindfulness meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises, can aid in lowering cortisol levels, which may alleviate thyroid-related symptoms. Lastly, prioritizing sufficient sleep and establishing a consistent sleep schedule contribute to optimal hormonal balance and increased energy levels. By incorporating these lifestyle modifications, you can boost your thyroid health and improve your overall quality of life.

Summary

For hypothyroidism patients, the best way to control their condition is to create a routine that works for them. This can include small remedies such as aromatherapy, which has been shown to be an effective way of improving one’s thyroid levels. Aromatherapy can come in many forms, such as bath oils and essential oils, and is also a particularly stress-free remedy. Additionally, it is important to have proper nutrition, exercise regularly and develop a consistent sleeping pattern in order to effectively manage hypothyroidism. With just these few simple tips, hypothyroidism patients may find themselves feeling more balanced than before.

In conclusion, hypothyroidism can be effectively treated and managed through a number of natural remedies. Aromatherapy and essential oils can help to improve thyroid function by regulating the hormones in our bodies naturally. And healthy lifestyle changes such as getting plenty of exercise, eating well-balanced meals, and getting adequate sleep are also key components in promoting better thyroid health. With these solutions, you can find relief from your symptoms of hypothyroidism in time. However, if you need any further guidance or have additional questions with regards to managing your condition, we recommend contacting a Wellness Advisor as they will be able to provide more tailored advice that is catered specifically to your own needs and situation. Doing so could make all the difference when it comes to taking charge of your health and achieving optimal wellness.

References

“Do Essential Oils Help Treat Thyroid Problems?“
By Yvelette Stines Updated on June 13, 2021
Medically reviewed by Emily Dashiell, ND

Hawkins J, Hires CY, Dunne EW, Keenan LA. Aromatherapy reduces fatigue among women with hypothyroidism: A randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial. J Complement Integr Med. 2019 Aug 22;17(1):/j/jcim.2019.17.issue-1/jcim-2018-0229/jcim-2018-0229.xml. doi: 10.1515/jcim-2018-0229. PMID: 31437124.

“Treating Common Thyroid Problems with Essential Oils” by By Kathryn Watson