Exploring the Role of Herbo-mineral Combinations for the Management of Hypothyroidism

Abstract

Background: Hypothyroidism, the second most common endocrine disorder after diabetes, significantly reduces quality of life (QoL). Women are more commonly affected (7.5%) than men (2.8%). In Ayurveda, hypothyroidism is associated with Dhatwagni mandya, especially Medodhatwagni mandya, which leads to decreased hormone production. Jalakumbhi bhasma is highly regarded in Ayurvedic texts for its effectiveness against Galaganda (goitre-related hypothyroidism). Materials and Methods: The study included 40 individuals with primary hypothyroidism enrolled at Patanjali Wellness in Haridwar. Participants, aged 18-60, were divided into two groups of 20 based on disease symptoms. Group A received Jalakumbhi bhasma with ushnodaka (hot water) as an anupana (vehicle), while Group B received a combination of Jalakumbhi bhasma, Yava kshara, and Pippali churna with Shigrupatra kwath (moringa leaf decoction) as an anupana. Pre- and post-treatment data were analyzed using an unpaired t-test. Results: There were significant improvements (p<0.05) observed in the symptoms of hypothyroidism in both groups. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test and Mann Whitney-U test showed a significant reduction in TSH levels, with Group B showing the most improvement, followed by Group A. Both treatments were effective in managing hypothyroidism. Discussion: Jalakumbhi bhasma alone was beneficial for treating hypothyroidism, but its effectiveness was significantly enhanced when combined with Yava kshara, Pippali churna, and Shigrupatra kwath. This combination provided a synergistic effect, improving the management of Medodhatwagni mandya (primary hypothyroidism). Key words: Jalakumbhi bhasma; Yava kshara; Pippali churna; Shigrupatra kwath; Medodhatwagni mandya; Hypothyroidism.