An ayurvedic approach in the management of hyperthyroidism

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “An ayurvedic approach in the management of hyperthyroidism”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Pitta:
Pitta is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda associated with metabolism and heat in the body. An imbalance in Pitta can lead to symptoms like excessive sweating, heat intolerance, and hyperacidity. Ayurvedic treatments often aim to balance Pitta to maintain health.

2) Drug:
In the context of Ayurveda, a drug refers to any natural substance used for medicinal purposes. Ayurveda extensively uses plant-based drugs, such as Madhuyasti (Glycyrrhiza glabra) and Shankhapushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis), to treat conditions like hyperthyroidism.

3) Vata:
Vata is another dosha in Ayurveda, representing movement and air. It governs bodily functions like circulation and nerve impulses. Vata imbalance can cause symptoms like weight loss, tremors, and insomnia, which are common in hyperthyroidism.

4) Kshaya (Ksaya):
Kshaya in Ayurveda denotes depletion or diminution of body tissues (Dhatus). For instance, Kapha Kshaya can lead to the depletion of other Dhatus like Rasa (plasma) and Mamsa (muscle), causing symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and weight loss.

5) Vriddhi (Vrddhi):
Vriddhi signifies the increase or aggravation of doshas or bodily elements. For instance, Pitta Vriddhi and Vata Vriddhi are implicated in hyperthyroidism, leading to symptoms like increased body temperature and nervousness.

6) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient system of healthcare originating in India. It uses a holistic approach to maintain health and treat diseases through herbal drugs, dietary changes, and lifestyle modifications. It emphasizes the balance of doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—in achieving wellness.

7) Disease:
In Ayurveda, a disease is often considered a result of an imbalance in doshas. For example, hyperthyroidism is viewed as a condition where Pitta and Vata are increased, and Kapha is decreased, leading to a range of symptoms that need to be managed holistically.

8) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa in Ayurveda refers to the taste of a substance, which influences its therapeutic properties. For example, Madhura Rasa (sweet taste) found in plants like Madhuyasti (Glycyrrhiza glabra) has calming and nourishing effects, beneficial in treating hyperthyroidism.

9) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological properties refer to the study of drug actions and effects. In Ayurveda, the pharmacological actions of herbs like Shankhapushpi and Ashwagandha are evaluated to understand their benefits in conditions like hyperthyroidism, including their dosha-balancing properties.

10) Kapha:
Kapha is the third dosha in Ayurveda, associated with stability, structure, and lubrication. Kapha Kshaya, or the reduction of Kapha, can lead to symptoms like weight loss and dryness, which are common in hyperthyroidism. Ayurveda aims to balance Kapha for overall health.

11) Balya:
Balya refers to the strengthening and nourishing properties of a substance. Herbs like Ashwagandha are considered Balya, as they help improve strength, vitality, and overall health, making them useful in managing conditions like hyperthyroidism.

12) Madhura:
Madhura is a taste (Rasa) in Ayurveda, meaning sweet. Substances with Madhura Rasa like Madhuyasti (Glycyrrhiza glabra) have nourishing, harmonizing, and strengthening effects, making them suitable for treating hyperthyroidism and related symptoms.

13) Rasayana (Rasa-ayana):
Rasayana in Ayurveda refers to rejuvenative therapies that promote longevity, youthfulness, and overall health. Herbs like Ashwagandha and Satavari are considered Rasayana, as they enhance tissue health, improve immunity, and alleviate the effects of hyperthyroidism.

14) Samaka (Shamaka):
Shamaka means 'pacifying' or 'calming' in Ayurveda. For example, Pitta Shamaka herbs help balance excess Pitta dosha. Substances like Shankhapushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis) are used for their calming effects on Vata and Pitta imbalances seen in hyperthyroidism.

15) Medhya:
Medhya denotes herbs that enhance intellect and mental functions. Shankhapushpi is a Medhya Rasayana, known for its cognitive-enhancing properties, reducing anxiety, and improving sleep—important in managing hyperthyroidism symptoms such as nervousness and insomnia.

16) Shankhapushpi (Sankhapuspi, Samkhapuspi):
Shankhapushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis) is an Ayurvedic herb known for its Medhya (intellect-enhancing) and Pitta Vata Shamaka (balancing) properties. It is used to regulate thyroid function and alleviate symptoms of hyperthyroidism such as anxiety and insomnia.

17) Madhuyashti (Madhuyasti, Madhu-yashti):
Madhuyasti (Glycyrrhiza glabra) is a sweet-tasting herb with properties that balance Vata and Pitta. It is known for its anti-inflammatory, nourishing, and calming effects, making it beneficial in treating symptoms of hyperthyroidism like fatigue and stress.

18) Vatapitta (Vata-pitta):
Vata-Pitta refers to the simultaneous aggravation of Vata and Pitta doshas. This combination is significant in hyperthyroidism, with symptoms like anxiety (Vata) and excessive sweating (Pitta). Ayurvedic treatments aim to balance both doshas for effective management.

19) Shatavari (Satavari):
Satavari (Asparagus racemosus) is an Ayurvedic herb known for its Rasayana (rejuvenative) and Balya (strengthening) properties. It helps decrease T3 and T4 levels in hyperthyroidism and nourishes Dhatus, improving overall health and resilience.

20) Snigdha:
Snigdha describes an unctuous, oily quality in Ayurveda. Many herbs used for hyperthyroidism, such as Madhuyasti, possess Snigdha properties, which help counteract dryness and provide nourishment to depleted Dhatus.

21) Vipaka:
Vipaka refers to the post-digestive effect of a substance in Ayurveda. For example, Madhura Vipaka has nourishing effects on the Dhatus. Understanding Vipaka helps in selecting the appropriate herbs for conditions like hyperthyroidism.

22) Dhatu:
Dhatu refers to the seven fundamental tissues in Ayurveda, including Rasa (plasma), Rakta (blood), and Mamsa (muscle). Hyperthyroidism can lead to the depletion (Kshaya) of these Dhatus, requiring rejuvenative (Rasayana) therapies for treatment.

23) India:
India is the birthplace of Ayurveda, a holistic healthcare system. Ayurvedic treatments and herbal drugs such as Satavari and Ashwagandha are widely used in India for managing conditions like hyperthyroidism, leveraging its rich tradition of herbal medicine.

24) Guna:
Guna in Ayurveda refers to the qualities or attributes of substances. For instance, the herb Guduchi has the Guna (qualities) of being Laghu (light) and Ushna (hot), which influence its therapeutic effects on the doshas and conditions like hyperthyroidism.

25) Medicine:
In Ayurveda, medicine encompasses a broad range of natural substances, primarily plant-based, used for therapeutic purposes. Herbs like Shankhapushpi and Madhuyasti are used as medicine to treat hyperthyroidism by balancing doshas and nourishing Dhatus.

26) Tikta:
Tikta is a bitter taste in Ayurveda that has detoxifying and Pitta-Vata balancing properties. Herbs with Tikta Rasa, such as Guduchi, are used in managing hyperthyroidism to alleviate excess heat and inflammation.

27) Ayus (Ayush):
AYUSH is an acronym for Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy. The Ministry of AYUSH in India promotes traditional healthcare systems, including the use of Ayurvedic herbs like Ashwagandha and Guduchi for managing hyperthyroidism.

28) Guru:
Guru is a quality (Guna) in Ayurveda meaning heavy. Some Ayurvedic herbs used for hyperthyroidism, like Shankhapushpi, have Guru properties, which provide stability and grounding, helping to counteract the light and mobile qualities of Vata dosha.

29) Rakta:
Rakta refers to blood, which is one of the seven Dhatus in Ayurveda. An imbalance in Rakta, such as from Pitta Vriddhi, can lead to symptoms like excessive sweating and heat intolerance, often seen in hyperthyroidism.

30) Kashaya (Kasaya):
Kashaya is astringent taste in Ayurveda, which helps to decrease excess Pitta and Kapha while providing stability. Guduchi has Kashaya Rasa, making it beneficial in cooling down the body and alleviating hyperthyroidism symptoms.

31) Dosha (Dosa):
Dosha refers to the three fundamental bio-elements in Ayurveda: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. An imbalance among these doshas leads to disease. Hyperthyroidism is seen as a result of Vata-Pitta Vriddhi and Kapha Kshaya, requiring specific dietary and herbal treatments.

32) Ushna (Usna):
Ushna refers to the hot quality in Ayurveda. Herbs like Aswagandha possess Ushna Guna, which can help balance Vata and Kapha doshas but must be used cautiously in conditions of Pitta Vriddhi, such as hyperthyroidism.

33) Shukra (Sukra):
Sukra is the reproductive tissue (dhatu) in Ayurveda. Conditions like hyperthyroidism can deplete Sukra, leading to symptoms such as loss of libido. Herbs with Sukrala (nourishing) properties, like Madhuyasti, are used to replenish this tissue.

34) Medas (Meda, Medash):
Meda refers to fat tissue (dhatu) in Ayurveda. Hyperthyroidism can cause Meda Kshaya, leading to significant weight loss and fatigue. Ayurvedic herbs like Satavari, which promote Meda, are used in treatment.

35) Prabhava:
Prabhava refers to the specific, often unique, effect of a substance in Ayurveda that cannot be explained by its taste (Rasa), qualities (Guna), potency (Virya), or post-digestive effect (Vipaka). This concept helps to understand the unique therapeutic effects of herbs.

36) Sweating (Sweat):
Excessive sweating is a symptom of Pitta Vriddhi, often observed in hyperthyroidism. Ayurvedic herbs that balance Pitta, such as Shankhapushpi and Madhuyasti, are used to manage this symptom.

37) Vrishya (Vrsya):
Vrishya herbs are those that enhance reproductive health and vitality. Ashwagandha is a well-known Vrishya herb, used in Ayurveda to improve strength, libido, and overall health, which may be compromised in conditions like hyperthyroidism.

38) Asthi (Ashthi):
Asthi is bone tissue in Ayurveda. Hyperthyroidism can lead to Asthi Kshaya, making bones porous and weak. Ashwagandha and Guduchi are used to strengthen and regenerate Asthi Dhatu.

39) Laghu:
Laghu denotes a light quality in Ayurveda. Herbs like Guduchi that possess this quality help in reducing the heaviness caused by Kapha and are useful in conditions like hyperthyroidism to alleviate symptoms like lethargy.

40) Patna:
Patna is a city in India where the Regional Ayurveda Research Institute conducts studies on Ayurvedic approaches to manage conditions like hyperthyroidism, utilizing local expertise and resources.

41) Tinospora cordifolia:
Tinospora cordifolia, known as Guduchi, is an Ayurvedic herb with Tridoshaghna (balancing all three doshas) properties. It is used in the management of hyperthyroidism for its anti-inflammatory, immune-modulatory, and detoxifying effects.

42) Glycyrrhiza glabra:
Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as Madhuyasti, is a sweet-tasting herb used in Ayurveda for its nourishing and calming effects. It balances Vata and Pitta doshas, making it beneficial in managing hyperthyroidism.

43) Withania somnifera:
Withania somnifera, commonly known as Ashwagandha, is an adaptogenic herb in Ayurveda. It helps regulate thyroid function, reduces stress, and improves overall vitality, making it effective in treating hyperthyroidism.

44) Dahaprashamana (Dahaprasamana, Daha-prashamana):
Dahaprashamana in Ayurveda refers to the property of relieving burning sensations. Herbs like Guduchi and Shankhapushpi have Dahaprashamana properties, which are beneficial in managing Pitta Vriddhi symptoms such as those seen in hyperthyroidism.

45) Vayasthapana (Vaya-sthapana):
Vayasthapana refers to anti-aging properties. Herbs like Guduchi are considered Vayasthapana as they promote longevity and vitality, which can be beneficial in managing the degenerative symptoms of hyperthyroidism.

46) Madhurarasa (Madhura-rasa):
Madhura Rasa, or sweet taste in Ayurveda, has nourishing, calming, and strengthening effects on the body. Herbs with Madhura Rasa, like Madhuyasti, are used to manage hyperthyroidism symptoms by balancing Vata and Pitta doshas.

47) Raktapitta (Rakta-pitta):
Rakta-Pitta is a pathological condition in Ayurveda involving the blood and Pitta dosha. In hyperthyroidism, symptoms like excessive sweating and palpitations might be managed by herbs that pacify Rakta-Pitta.

48) Ashvagandha (Asvagandha, Ashwagandha, Ashvagamdha, Ashva-gandha):
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a prominent adaptogenic herb in Ayurveda. It helps regulate thyroid function, reduces stress, and improves vitality, making it an effective treatment for hyperthyroidism and related symptoms.

49) Science (Scientific):
Scientific studies validate the traditional uses of Ayurvedic herbs. For example, research on Shankhapushpi and Guduchi supports their role in regulating thyroid function, substantiating Ayurvedic treatments for hyperthyroidism.

50) Shothahara (Sothahara, Shotha-hara):
Sothahara refers to the anti-inflammatory properties of a substance in Ayurveda. Herbs like Madhuyasti are known for Sothahara properties, which help reduce inflammation and swelling, common in hyperthyroidism.

51) Krishata (Krsata):
Krishata denotes emaciation or extreme thinness in Ayurvedic terms. It is often a result of Vata Vriddhi and Kapha Kshaya seen in hyperthyroidism. Herbs that nourish Dhatus, like Ashwagandha, are used to counteract Krishata.

52) Atyagni:
Atyagni refers to an abnormally high digestive fire or metabolism. It is associated with Pitta Vriddhi and can be seen in hyperthyroidism. Ayurvedic treatments aim to balance Atyagni to manage symptoms like increased appetite.

53) Hridya (Hrdya):
Hridya means beneficial for the heart in Ayurveda. Herbs like Satavari have Hridya properties, helping to manage cardiovascular symptoms of hyperthyroidism, such as palpitations and rapid heartbeat.

54) Keshya (Kesya):
Keshya refers to herbs that promote the health of hair. Madhuyasti is known as Keshya in Ayurveda, helping to manage hair loss related to hyperthyroidism by nourishing the hair and scalp.

55) Shrama (Srama):
Shrama means fatigue or exhaustion in Ayurveda. It can result from Vata and Pitta imbalances seen in hyperthyroidism. Rejuvenative herbs like Guduchi and Ashwagandha are used to alleviate Shrama by boosting energy levels.

56) Shosha (Sosa):
Shosha in Ayurveda refers to wasting or emaciation of body tissues. Hyperthyroidism can lead to Shosha due to increased metabolism. Ayurvedic herbs like Satavari and Madhuyasti help counteract tissue wasting by nourishing the Dhatus.

57) Mamsa (Mamsha):
Mamsa represents muscle tissue in Ayurveda. Hyperthyroidism can cause Mamsa Kshaya (muscle wasting). Herbs like Ashwagandha and Madhuyasti are used to nourish and rebuild muscle tissue.

58) Sira (Shira):
Shira refers to the head or brain in Ayurveda. Imbalances in Shira can cause symptoms like anxiety and irritability, seen in hyperthyroidism. Herbs like Shankhapushpi, with calming effects on Shira, are used to manage these symptoms.

59) Majja:
Majja is the bone marrow or nervous tissue in Ayurveda. Hyperthyroidism can lead to Majja Kshaya, manifesting as weakness and neurological symptoms. Herbs with Majja-nourishing properties, like Guduchi, are used for treatment.

60) Kampa:
Kampa refers to tremors in Ayurveda, a common symptom of Vata Vriddhi seen in hyperthyroidism. Shankhapushpi and Madhuyasti are used to calm Vata and reduce Kampa (tremors).

61) Vayu:
Vayu means air, one of the five elements (Pancha Mahabhuta) in Ayurveda. It also represents Vata dosha, responsible for movement and circulation. Balancing Vayu is crucial in treating hyperthyroidism symptoms like nervousness and tremors.

62) Burning sensation:
Burning sensation, or Daha, is a symptom of Pitta Vriddhi. Herbs with Dahaprashamana properties, like Shankhapushpi and Guduchi, are used in Ayurveda to manage this symptom in conditions like hyperthyroidism.

63) Ocimum sanctum:
Ocimum sanctum, commonly known as Tulsi, is an Ayurvedic herb with various medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory and adaptogenic effects. It is useful in managing symptoms of hyperthyroidism by balancing the doshas.

64) Asparagus racemosus:
Asparagus racemosus, known as Satavari, is an Ayurvedic herb with Rasayana (rejuvenative) properties. It helps reduce T3 and T4 levels and nourishes depleted Dhatus in hyperthyroidism, improving overall health.

65) Stanyajanana (Stanya-janana):
Stanyajanana refers to substances that induce lactation. Satavari is known for its Stanyajanana properties, making it beneficial for nursing mothers. It also supports overall hormonal balance, useful in conditions like hyperthyroidism.

66) Mamsakshaya (Mamsaksaya, Mamsha-kshaya, Mamsa-kshaya):
Mamsa Kshaya is muscle wasting in Ayurveda, often seen in hyperthyroidism. It results from Vata Vriddhi and Kapha Kshaya. Herbs like Ashwagandha and Madhuyasti help counteract Mamsa Kshaya by nourishing and rebuilding muscle tissue.

67) Vishanashini (Visanasini, Visha-nashini):
Vishanashini refers to a substance that can neutralize toxins. Herbs like Madhuyasti have Vishanashini properties, providing detoxification and balancing effects beneficial in managing hyperthyroidism.

[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 120]