Dhātwagni vikar in hypothyroidism and indigenous treatments.
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Concept of dhātwagni vikar w. s. r to hypothyroidism and its treatment with some indigenous drugs
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Dr. A. P. Nayak, Dr. Pradeep K. Panda, Dr. S. K. Meher and Dr. Pawan Kumar
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Concept of dhātwagni vikar w. s. r to hypothyroidism and its treatment with some indigenous drugs
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr201818-13826
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Hypothyroidism, characterized as a hypo-metabolic state due to insufficient thyroid hormones, is increasingly prevalent, especially among females, with a noteworthy higher incidence in urban and rural settings. The modern treatments often entail adverse effects, heightening the necessity for safe and effective management strategies rooted in traditional practices like Ayurveda. This Ayurvedic perspective emphasizes a comprehensive understanding of the disease's pathogenesis, as hypothyroidism is not explicitly defined in Ayurvedic texts. It delves into abnormal conditions of Jatharagni and Dhatwagni, alongside imbalances in the Doshas, particularly Kapha and Vata, in conjunction with the involvement of Rasavaha and other Srotas.
The Concept of Agni and Its Role in Hypothyroidism
One significant concept underlying Ayurvedic medicine is Agni, the digestive fire, which is essential for maintaining the body's metabolic processes. In hypothyroidism, a vitiation of Dhatwagni—specific metabolic fires within the body—occurs primarily due to a disruption in Jatharagni, the main digestive fire. Agni Mandya, or impaired Agni, leads to the production of Ama (toxins), causing obstructions in the Srotas (channels) and a cascade effect that undermines Rasa Dhatu (the nutrient fluid) and other Dhatus (tissues). Consequently, factors causing vitiation in Agni are considered crucial Nidana (causative factors) of the disease.
Kapha Dosha's Dominance and Its Implications
Hypothyroidism exhibits a substantial involvement of Kapha dosha, which can be understood as an augmented state leading to various symptoms. The balance of the three Doshas—Kapha, Vata, and Pitta—plays an essential role in the manifestation of the disease. In hypothyroidism, Kapha's accumulation is evident through symptoms such as weight gain, hoarseness, and cold intolerance. The symptoms correlate with Ayurvedic descriptions of Kapha Jyothi and suggest a need for a treatment approach focused on Kapha reduction while addressing the latent Vata imbalance and the underlying Agni disorders, to facilitate optimal physiological functioning.
Pathogenesis and Samprapti
The concept of Samprapti (pathogenesis) is pivotal in understanding how dietary, lifestyle, and psychological factors contribute to the development of hypothyroidism. These elements can lead to a domination of Kapha, associated with a disturbance in Pitta, thereby affecting metabolic processes within the body. This interplay results in a sequence of pathological events, including the formation of Ama and the subsequent impairment of Rasavaha Srotas. The resulting clinical picture aligns with the Ayurvedic depiction of a syndrome involving Rasa and Meda Dhatus, essentially connecting the condition of hypothyroidism with broader systemic influences, establishing its multi-dimensional health impact.
Conclusion
In conclusion, hypothyroidism, viewed through the lens of Ayurveda, presents profound insights into its underlying mechanisms and treatment strategies. The examination highlights the vitiation of Kapha and Vata Doshas and the crucial role of Agni in the disease's pathogenesis. The intertwined concepts of Agni, Doshas, and Samprapti underscore the need for a holistic Ayurvedic approach that integrates dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, and herbal interventions to restore balance, enhance metabolic functions, and achieve a healthier state. Hence, Ayurveda offers a comprehensive framework for understanding and managing hypothyroidism effectively.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is hypothyroidism and its clinical challenge?
Hypothyroidism is a hypo metabolic state caused by a deficiency in thyroid hormones. It poses a major clinical challenge due to its increasing prevalence, especially among females, in both developing and developed countries.
How does Ayurveda interpret the pathogenesis of hypothyroidism?
In Ayurveda, hypothyroidism correlates with Agni Mandya (impaired digestion) leading to Dhatwagni Vikriti (disordered tissue metabolism). This can trigger a chain of pathology affecting various Dhatus (tissues).
What are the primary symptoms associated with hypothyroidism?
Key symptoms include weight gain, hoarseness of voice, dry skin, constipation, cold intolerance, weakness, and generalized pain, primarily due to Kapha and Vata dosha involvement.
What role do doshas play in hypothyroidism according to Ayurveda?
Hypothyroidism features predominant Kapha dosha, with Vata in a prolonged state. Symptoms arise from the vitiation of these doshas, reflecting the need for targeted Ayurvedic treatment.
How is hypothyroidism treated in Ayurvedic practice?
Treatment focuses on regulating Agni and Dhatwagni, implementing Shodhana (purification) and Shamana (pacification) therapies. Herbal remedies such as Pippali and Dashamoola are commonly used.
Why is understanding Agni crucial in managing hypothyroidism?
Agni, representing metabolic processes, is essential for health. Impaired Agni leads to the accumulation of Ama (toxins) and dysfunction of Dhatus, worsening hypothyroidism.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Dhātwagni vikar in hypothyroidism and indigenous treatments.”. 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) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, representing the elements of water and earth. It is associated with the body's structure and stability, as well as moisture and lubrication. In hypothyroidism, Kapha dosha is often aggravated, leading to symptoms such as weight gain and stagnant metabolic processes.
2) Dosha (Dosa):
In Ayurveda, dosha refers to the three biological energies that govern physical and mental processes: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Each dosha is composed of two of the five elements and influences health. Imbalances in doshas can lead to disease, making their regulation essential for overall wellness.
3) Vata:
Vata is one of the three doshas, associated with the elements of air and space. It governs movement and physiological processes in the body, including circulation and nerve impulses. An imbalance of Vata may lead to disorders characterized by dryness and instability, contrasting with Kapha's qualities.
4) Dhatu:
Dhatu refers to the seven tissues in Ayurveda that form the body: Rasa (plasma), Rakta (blood), Mamsa (muscle), Meda (fat), Asthi (bone), Majja (bone marrow), and Sukra (reproductive tissue). Each dhatu is vital for bodily functions and a crucial understanding in Ayurvedic treatment.
5) Disease:
In Ayurveda, disease (Vyadhi) arises from imbalances in doshas, dhatus, and srotas (channels). The understanding of disease includes considering physical, emotional, and environmental factors that affect health. Recognizing symptoms and their root causes is essential for effective treatment.
6) Agni:
Agni, or digestive fire, is a fundamental concept in Ayurveda representing the physiological processes of digestion, metabolism, and transformation. It is crucial for maintaining health, and when agni is weak (Mandya), it can lead to the formation of toxins (ama) and disease.
7) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that emphasizes balance in the body, mind, and spirit. It uses natural remedies and holistic practices to address health and well-being. Ayurveda considers individual constitution and recommends personalized treatments, including diet, herbs, and lifestyle changes.
8) Vriddhi (Vrddhi):
Vriddhi refers to the increase or enhancement of a particular dosha or tissue in Ayurvedic medicine. For example, when Kapha dosha vriddhi occurs, it may lead to symptoms associated with excess moisture and heaviness, impacting metabolic processes and overall health.
9) Nayak:
Dr. A. P. Nayak is one of the primary authors contributing to research on the Ayurvedic concept of hypothyroidism and its management. The collaboration includes several experts highlighting the integration of traditional herbal remedies with modern understanding of the condition.
10) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa denotes the essence or plasma in Ayurvedic medicine, representing the first dhatu formed from digested food. It nourishes the body through subsequent dhatus. In conditions like hypothyroidism, rasa dhatu may become vitiated, leading to various health complications.
11) Vitiation (Vitiated):
Vitiated describes a condition where the natural state of doshas, dhatus, or agni has been disturbed. This term often indicates the presence of ama (toxins) in the body, leading to various health issues, such as hypothyroidism, requiring specific Ayurvedic therapies to restore balance.
12) Pitta:
Pitta is one of the three doshas associated with the elements of fire and water. It governs metabolism, digestion, and transformation processes in the body. An imbalance in Pitta can result in increased heat and inflammation, impacting overall health and wellness.
13) Jatharagni (Jathara-agni):
Jatharagni refers to the main digestive fire located in the stomach. It plays a significant role in transforming food into the body's energy and nutrients. A strong Jatharagni is essential for maintaining health, whereas its impairment can lead to digestive disorders.
14) Kaphadosha (Kaphadosa, Kapha-dosha):
Kapha-dosha is one of the three doshas responsible for stability, structure, and lubrication in the body. It is characterized by qualities such as heaviness, coldness, and dampness. An excess of Kapha can lead to various health issues, including hypothyroidism, weight gain, and sluggish metabolism.
15) Bhallataka:
Bhallataka is an Ayurvedic herb used in formulations to manage conditions associated with Kapha dosha. Known for its warming properties, it helps in reducing excess Kapha, promoting digestion, and enhancing metabolic processes, making it suitable for treating hypothyroidism symptoms.
16) Kshaya (Ksaya):
Kshaya refers to the depletion or deficiency of dhatus or doshas in Ayurveda. It describes a state where the normal quantity of essential substances is reduced, impacting overall health. For instance, Kshaya of Rasa can lead to weakness and nutritional deficiencies.
17) Guna:
Guna are the quality attributes used in Ayurveda to describe the properties of substances, including doshas and herbs. They categorize elements based on characteristics such as heaviness, lightness, coldness, and hotness, influencing diagnosis, treatment strategies, and understanding individual constitution.
18) Pippali (Pippalin):
Pippali, or long pepper, is a prominent Ayurvedic herb known for its potent digestive and metabolic-enhancing properties. It is often used in Rasayana therapies to improve digestion and alleviate conditions related to weak agni, aiding in the management of hypothyroidism.
19) Srotas (Shrotas):
Srotas refers to the channels or pathways in the body through which dhatus and doshas flow. Health conditions can arise when srotas become obstructed or vitiated, leading to diseases. In Ayurveda, maintaining the health of srotas is essential for overall well-being.
20) Vyadhin (Vyadhi):
Vyadhi refers to disease or disorder in Ayurveda. It encompasses a range of health issues that arise from imbalances in doshas, dhatus, or agni. Understanding Vyadhi is central for diagnosis and treatment, guiding practitioners in restoring health through holistic approaches.
21) Shotha (Sotha):
Sotha refers to swelling or edema in Ayurvedic terminology, often resulted from an imbalance in Kapha dosha. It manifests in various forms, such as blood or lymphatic retention, requiring targeted therapies to reduce excess fluid and restore balance to the affected areas.
22) Hand:
In Ayurvedic terms, the hand can represent an extension of various bodily functions, including fine motor skills, manual work, and therapeutic practices. Treatments such as Abhyanga (Ayurvedic massage) often utilize the hands to restore balance, reduce stress, and enhance energy flow.
23) Samprapti:
Samprapti refers to the process of disease formation and progression in Ayurveda. It involves understanding the initiation of a condition, including the contributing factors and the resultant symptoms. Gaining insight into Samprapti allows practitioners to intervene early and guide effective treatment.
24) Vikara:
Vikara refers to the manifestation of disease or disturbances in the body's natural state in Ayurveda. It encompasses a variety of physical and psychological symptoms that arise from imbalances in doshas or alterations in dhatus, guiding the diagnostic and therapeutic approach.
25) Bala:
Bala signifies strength or vitality in Ayurveda, encompassing physical, mental, and emotional aspects. It reflects the overall health status and is essential for maintaining optimal functioning. A deficiency in Bala can exist due to poor nutrition, stress, or chronic illnesses.
26) Manda (Mamda):
Manda denotes slow or ineffective states regarding metabolic processes in Ayurveda. It often refers to impaired digestion (Mandagni), leading to the accumulation of toxins and weight gain. Restoring Manda to a balanced state is vital for recovery and well-being.
27) Hara:
Hara refers to a concept in Ayurveda that often indicates the removal, alleviation, or transformation of disease-causing factors. Therapeutic interventions aim to Hara imbalances and vitiation in the body, restoring equilibrium and promoting health.
28) Rupa:
Rupa refers to the visible manifestation of disease symptoms in Ayurveda. It entails the observable signs that reflect underlying imbalances in the body, guiding practitioners in diagnosis and treatment. Understanding Rupa helps in assessing the severity and type of disorder.
29) Hair:
Hair plays a crucial role in indicating overall health in Ayurveda. Healthy hair growth is associated with balanced doshas and proper nourishment of dhatus. Hair loss or alterations in texture can signal underlying disorders, particularly those related to imbalances in vata and kapha.
30) Rasadhatu (Rasa-dhatu):
Rasa-dhatu refers to the first tissue formed from ingested food in Ayurveda. It represents plasma or the vital essence that nourishes other dhatus. Its health is pivotal for sustaining life functions, and alterations can lead to systemic imbalances and disorders.
31) Dauhrida (Dauhrda):
Dauhrida signifies the maternal aspect involved in the development of a fetus during pregnancy. It emphasizes the significance of the mother's health, psychology, and satisfactions during conception and gestation, impacting the future health of the child, including potential conditions like congenital hypothyroidism.
32) Medicine:
Medicine in Ayurveda encompasses natural herbs, formulations, and treatments aimed at restoring balance among doshas and dhatus. Ayurveda relies on holistic and individualized approaches to health, emphasizing prevention and management through harmonizing bodily tissues and functions.
33) Gaurava:
Gaurava represents heaviness in Ayurvedic terms, indicating a symptom associated with increased kapha dosha or other imbalances in the body. It reflects a sluggish or lethargic state, often observed in conditions like hypothyroidism, where metabolic activity is diminished.
34) Kaphaja:
Kaphaja refers to conditions or diseases that primarily arise from vitiated kapha dosha. In hypothyroidism, symptoms such as weight gain, edema, and lethargy can be categorized as Kaphaja, guiding the treatment focus towards reducing excess kapha through dietary and lifestyle interventions.
35) Panduta:
Panduta denotes pallor or paleness in Ayurveda, often linked to deficiencies in Rasa and Rakta dhatus. This condition reflects anemia or inadequate tissue nourishment, contributing to fatigue and weakness, commonly seen in disorders like hypothyroidism.
36) Rasaja (Rasa-ja):
Rasaja signifies conditions or disorders related to Rasa-dhatu. It indicates symptoms emerging from disturbances in plasma or nutrient assimilation in the body, often linked to impaired metabolism, as observed in individuals suffering from hypothyroidism.
37) Tandra (Tamdra):
Tandra describes drowsiness or lethargy in Ayurveda, often resulting from increased kapha dosha or impaired agni. It reflects a state where energy levels are low, and one feels heavy or sleepy, similar symptomatically to conditions like hypothyroidism.
38) Nidana:
Nidana refers to the causes or contributing factors leading to disease in Ayurveda. Understanding Nidana helps practitioners diagnose health issues effectively and develop appropriate treatments targeted at addressing the underlying causes of disorders.
39) Desire:
Desire relates to emotional and psychological factors influencing health in Ayurveda. Unfulfilled desires, especially during pregnancy, can impact fetal health and may contribute to congenital health conditions, highlighting the interplay of psychological well-being with physical health.
40) Karma (Karman):
Karma denotes actions or deeds impacting an individual's life, including health outcomes in Ayurveda. The principle of karma underscores the belief that both positive and negative actions influence one's present and future health, shaping individual wellness journeys.
41) Hetu:
Hetu signifies a cause or reason in Ayurveda, often used in clinical contexts to identify the underlying factors contributing to disease. Accurate recognition of Hetu is essential for effective diagnosis and treatment plans, guiding practitioners in restoring health.
42) Vati:
Vati refers to tablets or pills used in Ayurvedic medicine that contain various herbal combinations. These preparations are designed for easy consumption and treatment of specific ailments. Vati formulations allow for precise dosages and synergistic effects of the included herbs.
43) Mala:
Mala refers to waste products or toxins excreted from the body in Ayurveda. Proper elimination of mala is crucial for maintaining health. Accumulation of mala leads to disharmony and disease, necessitating holistic approaches for detoxification and cleansing.
44) Vayu:
Vayu, or air element, is one of the vital forces in Ayurveda governing movement in the body. It plays essential roles in circulation and nervous system functions. Imbalance in Vayu can lead to disturbances in physical and mental functions, contributing to various health issues.
45) Pain:
Pain signifies discomfort or suffering arising from imbalances in the body. In Ayurveda, pain is often viewed as a symptom of underlying disorders caused by vitiated doshas and dhatus. Effective treatment strategies seek to alleviate pain through balancing these elements.
46) Rasavahasrotas (Rasavaha-srotas):
Rasavaha-srotas refers to the channels responsible for the transport of Rasa-dhatu throughout the body in Ayurveda. Health conditions can arise from blockages or disturbances in these channels, impacting nutrient distribution and leading to various systemic disorders.
47) Agnimandya (Agni-mandya, Agnimamdya):
Agni-mandya refers to weakened digestive fire. This condition results in poor metabolism and can lead to the accumulation of ama (toxins) in the body, contributing to diseases like hypothyroidism. Strengthening agni is crucial for restoring health.
48) Kaphavata (Kapha-vata):
Kapha-vata signifies a state where both Kapha and Vata doshas are weakened or imbalanced. This dual imbalance can lead to a variety of symptoms, including sluggishness and dryness, emphasizing the need for therapies addressing both doshas in treatment.
49) Similarity:
Similarity refers to the parallel characteristics seen in different health conditions or symptoms. In Ayurveda, recognizing these similarities aids practitioners in identifying appropriate treatment protocols based on shared underlying imbalances among various diseases.
50) Purvarupa (Purva-rupa):
Purvarupa refers to the prodromal or pre-manifest condition that provides warning signs of a forthcoming disease. These early indications can help practitioners identify potential health issues before they fully develop, allowing for proactive intervention.
51) Mahabhuta (Maha-bhuta):
Mahabhuta refers to the five great elements (earth, water, fire, air, space) constituting all matter in Ayurveda. These elements form the basis of the doshas and play an integral role in understanding individual constitutional types and their health implications.
52) Galaganda (Gala-ganda, Galagamda):
Galaganda refers to a swelling in the thyroid area or goiter in Ayurveda. It is linked to imbalances in Kapha dosha and requires specific treatments to restore balance and alleviate symptoms, underscoring the interrelations between doshas and glandular health.
53) Anulomana:
Anulomana connotes the facilitation of proper physiological functions, including digestion and elimination processes in Ayurveda. Treatments focusing on anulomana aim to restore balance and function to bodily systems, enhancing overall health through improved excretory processes.
54) Stiffness:
Stiffness in Ayurveda often corresponds to limitations in movement resulting from vitiated Vata and Kapha doshas. Symptoms of stiffness may arise in conditions like hypothyroidism where metabolic and circulatory functions are impaired, requiring targeted treatments to relieve discomfort.
55) Tridosha (Tridosa, Tri-dosha):
Tridosha encompasses the three primary doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) that govern individual constitution and health in Ayurveda. An understanding of Tridosha principles is fundamental in diagnosing imbalances, guiding treatment plans for restoring health and wellness.
56) Shodhana (Sodhana):
Sodhana refers to purification or detoxification processes in Ayurveda designed to eliminate ama (toxins) from the body. Effective sodhana promotes balance within the body, facilitating healing and recovery from various health conditions.
57) Rasayana (Rasa-ayana):
Rasayana signifies rejuvenative therapies in Ayurveda designed to promote longevity, enhance vitality, and restore health. These processes often involve using herbal formulations to nourish dhatus and improve metabolic functions, benefitting conditions like hypothyroidism significantly.
58) Bhutagni (Bhuta-agni):
Bhutagni represents the metabolic fire associated with the five mahabhutas (elements). It governs the transformation and assimilation of elements vital for sustaining life. Harmonizing bhutagni is essential for maintaining health, influencing each dhatu and overall well-being.
59) Activity:
Activity refers to the dynamic processes occurring within the body, encompassing both physical and metabolic functions. In Ayurveda, maintaining balanced activity levels is critical for health, as imbalances can lead to stagnation or excess, contributing to disease.
60) Prakopa:
Prakopa describes the aggravation or increase of doshas in Ayurvedic terms. When doshas become vitiated, their properties can lead to various health disturbances. Recognizing prakopa helps guide practitioners in developing effective management and treatment strategies.
61) Vikriti (Vikrti):
Vikriti denotes the current state of balance or imbalance in an individual’s doshas and dhatus. Understanding vikriti allows practitioners to develop tailored treatment plans that target specific imbalances and restore health based on individual needs.
62) Ghataka:
Ghataka refers to the component elements involved in the process of disease formation in Ayurveda. By analyzing ghatakas, practitioners can identify the root causes and pathways leading to specific health conditions, aiding in formulating effective treatment plans.
63) Samana (Shamana):
Samana refers to the balancing energy that promotes harmony and proper functioning within the body. It is essential for restoring health by ensuring equilibrium among doshas and aiding in the integration of bodily systems.
64) Channel:
Channel refers to the pathways within the body through which energy, nutrients, and bodily fluids flow in Ayurveda. Maintaining open and unobstructed channels is essential for good health, as blockages can lead to various disorders and imbalances.
65) Science (Scientific):
Science often refers to the systematic study and understanding of natural phenomena. In the context of Ayurveda, it signifies the exploration of health principles and practices based on observation, theory, and holistic integration of body, mind, and spirit.
66) Artava:
Artava refers to the menstrual fluid and reproductive health in Ayurveda. It encompasses the health of the female reproductive system and indicates vitality and balance. Issues in artava production can relate to hormonal imbalances or other health concerns.
67) Vamana:
Vamana is a therapeutic procedure in Ayurveda involving controlled vomiting to expel excess Kapha and toxins from the body. It is particularly beneficial in conditions characterized by an excess of mucous or stagnation and facilitates clearing of the channels.
68) Edema (Oedema):
Oedema describes the swelling caused by excess fluid accumulation in tissues. In Ayurveda, it indicates imbalances primarily in Kapha dosha and necessitates treatment strategies to eliminate excess fluid and restore balance to the affected areas.
69) Aruci:
Aruchi refers to loss of appetite or reluctance to eat, often resulting from deranged agni or disturbed doshas in Ayurveda. It can lead to nutritional deficiencies and worsen overall health, necessitating targeted treatments to stimulate digestive fire.
70) Rakta:
Rakta is the dhatu representing blood in Ayurveda, vital for transporting nutrients and oxygen throughout the body. Maintaining a balance in Rakta is essential for overall health; disturbances can lead to conditions like anemia or fatigue.
71) Pandu (Pamdu, Pamde):
Pandu refers to paleness or pallor in the context of Ayurvedic health, often linked with impoverished Rakta or Rasa dhatus. Conditions manifesting as Pandu indicate possible deficiencies and require interventions to restore vitality.
72) Klama:
Klama denotes fatigue or exhaustion in Ayurveda, reflecting a decrease in Bala (strength) and energy levels. Factors contributing to Klama can include improper nutrition, excessive depletion of dhatus, or chronic conditions, emphasizing the need for restorative therapies.
73) Table:
Table refers to a structured presentation or comparison of data in scientific literature. In the context of Ayurvedic research, tables help summarize findings, correlating symptoms, doshas, and treatments, facilitating a clearer understanding of complex interactions.
74) Kaya:
Kaya denotes the body in Ayurveda and encompasses the physical forms and attributes. Understanding body constitution is crucial for individualized treatment approaches that align with Ayurveda's principles, helping to restore and maintain health.
75) Medas (Meda, Medash):
Meda is the dhatu representing fat tissue in Ayurveda, essential for providing energy reserves, insulation, and cushioning. Balance in Meda supports overall health, while excess can lead to conditions like obesity and metabolic syndromes, especially in relation to Kapha.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 161]