Qillat-e-Darqiyya (Hypothyroidism): A Comparative Approach Between Conventional Medicine and Unani System of Medicine

Abstract

Hypothyroidism refers to hormone deficiency caused by intrinsic thyroid gland dysfunction that disrupts the synthesis and secretion of T4 and T3. Primary Hypothyroidism is one of the most common endocrine conditions, occurring in 5% of individuals. Mild hypothyroidism is present in as many as 15% of older adults. Hypothyroidism is more common in women. Thyroid hormone deficiency affects almost all body functions, and hypothyroidism, if left untreated, may lead to complications such as infertility, delirium, dementia, cerebellar ataxia, seizures, psychosis (myxedema madness), confusion, myxedema coma, hypothermia, severe cardiac failure (myxedema heart), pericardial effusions, etc.  In conventional medicine, levothyroxine is being used effectively in the management of hypothyroidism, but it can suppress the TSH to subnormal range and can cause serious side effects on bone density and cardiac function, such as osteoporosis, atrial fibrillation, myocardial ischemia, etc. In a recent survey conducted by the American Thyroid Association, it was demonstrated that patients taking natural preparations, rather than synthetic hormone replacement therapy or combination therapy, were more satisfied with their treatment. In the Unani system of medicine, the principles of treatment (Uṣūl-i-‘Ilāj) include Tanqiya (elimination of morbid material from the body) and Ta‘dīl-i-Mizāj (temperamental alteration). Accordingly, the disease-causing humor, i.e., Balgham (Phlegm), needs to be evacuated from the body. For this purpose, Munḍij-i-Balgham (Phlegmatic Concoctive) drugs, such as Baykh Kāsnī, Baykh Bādiyān, Baykh Izkhar, Baykh Karafs, Barg-i-Gaozabān, Gul-i-Gaozabān, Tukh Khatmī, Teen, etc., and Mushil-i-Balgham (Phlegmatic Purgative) drugs, such as Turbud, Sanā Makkī, Tukhm Ḥanzal, Qusṭ, Ghariqūn, Muqil, Sūranjān, etc., can be used. This review paper will highlight recent literature on this topic and offer some practical aspects according to the Unani System of Medicine.