AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF PRIMARY HYPOTHYROIDISM: A CASE STUDY

Primary hypothyroidism is a common endocrine disorder correlated in Ayurveda with Agnimandya (metabolic sluggishness), Srotorodha (channel obstruction), and an imbalance of Kapha and Vata doshas. This article presents a hypothetical case study of a 32-year-old female (within the 20-40 year age group) diagnosed with primary hypothyroidism, presenting with fatigue, weight gain, and constipation. The condition shares classical features with Galganda (goiter) and Granthi (glandular swelling), described in Sushruta Samhita (Nidana Sthana, Ch. 11)[8] as a Kapha and Meda (fat tissue) dominant disorder. The patient was managed with a comprehensive Ayurvedic protocol as an adjuvant therapy. The protocol included Shodhana Karma (purification) as lauded in Charaka Samhita (Sutra Sthana), comprising Snehana (oleation) with Mahatiktaka Ghrita (ref: Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana, Ch. 7) and Virechana (purgation) using Trivrut Lehya[3] (ref: Charaka Samhita, Kalpa Sthana, Ch. 7). This was followed by a Shamana (palliative) phase using Hamsapathyadi Kashayam, Kanchanara Guggulu, and Gandharva Haritaki (ref: Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana, Ch. 1 on Haritaki).[4] This article outlines the clinical and biochemical improvements, discusses the synergistic mode of action rooted in classical principles, and highlights its potential as a supportive therapy.