Homeopathy for Underactive thyroid works by stimulating the gland to produce hormones naturally. It does not provide external thyroid supplements. Results are more likely when the thyroid is still functional, and the condition is of recent onset, particularly in patients receiving hormone replacement therapy for less than 2 years. When the gland is severely damaged or atrophied, the homeopathic response may be limited.

Homeopathic medicines are selected based on the totality of symptoms, taking into account physical and emotional health, genetic predispositions, metabolism, sleep patterns, and environmental influences. Over 25 homeopathic remedies may be used, including Natrum muriaticum, Natrum iodatum, Iodum, Phosphorus, Staphysagria, Sepia, Kali carbonicum, Thuja occidentalis, and others.
Self-medication is not advised.

If the thyroid gland still has the capacity to become activated, homeopathic medicines could be used to activate it and normalise hormone levels. If the patient has been on thyroid supplements for more than 2 years, the gland may have become lax, and homeopathy may not be effective. Early cases and children react more favorably. Periodic tests were used to assess the efficacy of homeopathic treatment.

Homeopathic treatment for an underactive thyroid is usually required for 1–2 years, depending on the case. Progress is monitored through periodic thyroid function tests (T3, T4, TSH) and regular clinical evaluations. Some individuals may require treatment beyond two years. It is important to note that conventional thyroid hormone therapy is typically lifelong.

Due to genetic and immunological factors—and, in rare cases, pituitary dysfunction—the thyroid gland may fail to function adequately. As a result, T3 and T4 hormones are produced in suboptimal amounts. When T3 and T4 levels fall, TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) rises in an effort to stimulate the gland. In Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis, an immune-mediated inflammation of the thyroid further contributes to this dysfunction.

An estimated 3-5% of the world population and more than 6% of the female population in India suffer from underactive thyroid. This is a considerable number. More females than men suffer from this condition, about a 95:5 ratio. However, in clinical practice, we observe that an increasing number of men are being diagnosed with this condition in recent years.

The most common symptoms of Underactive thyroid include weight gain, swelling of the body, especially the face and feet due to water retention, hair loss, menstrual irregularities in females, dry skin, mood swings, depression, lethargy, weakness, fatigue, and vague bodyache.

Since the thyroid gland plays a significant role in metabolism and cardiovascular health, untreated cases of underactive thyroid show heart complications, increased cholesterol, hypertension, nerve problems, and infertility in females. A severe case may present with goiter, coma, severe depression, and mental health problems.

Thyroid hormone levels, namely T3 and T4, should be evaluated, along with TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone). Free T3, T4, and TSH tests are suggested. ANA antibodies are to be assessed to determine Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis. A thyroid biopsy is not indicated unless a thyroid nodule and goiter are present.

Conventional medication is intended to supplement deficient thyroid hormones.

Lifestyle improvement is an essential part of thyroid treatment. Regular exercise for at least 45 minutes a day is beneficial. A balanced diet and avoiding excess iodine intake, iodised salt, and vegetables such as cabbage, cauliflower, and broccoli may also support better thyroid function.