Diagnosis and management of primary hypothyroidism in Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and Traditional Indian Medicine (Ayurveda)

Primary hypothyroidism is one of the most common endocrine disorders. TCM and Ayurveda are the two giant ancient systems of medicine flourished in China and Indian sub-continent respectively. The term like hypothyroidism is not mentioned in both classical literatures of TCM and Ayurveda but the features nearest to hypothyroidism are described in both. In TCM the disorders like Xulao (consumptive disease), Xusun (wasting) and Yinbing (thyroid swelling) can be closely correlated with hypothyroidism while in Ayurveda the disorder Galaganda (enlarged thyroid gland) is the nearest one. According to TCM the pathogenesis of hypothyroidism lies in liver depression as well as spleen and kidney yang deficiency while Ayurveda believes it is due to imbalance of Tridosha (three bodily humours) and treatment is directed accordingly. Modern management of hypothyroidism by using thyroxin is effective with some limitations. The herbs, Chinese massage and acupuncture used in TCM as well as the Ayurvedic herbs could be complementary to the modern day treatment of hypothyroidism. These classical methods of management not only help to reduce the dosage of thyroxin but also help to restore thyroid function significantly and improve general health. The further research is needed to prove the scientific validity of these classical methods of management.