At a superficial level, it appears that some chemical processing of the food intakes generates blood, and that the flow of blood is the source of heat and energy in the body. However, deeper analysis has shown that there is a separate mechanism at the root of all functions inside the body, which gives rise to the formation of blood and maintenance of body-energy. The auto-regulatory system of the neurons and the influence of the conscious and unconscious mind on it are also now regarded as a manifestation of some subtler processes. The hormone secreting endocrine glands constitute this subtle system, which is now found to be the basic controller of all functions, qualities, abilities or disabilities of the bodily and mental functions. The thyroid gland secrets a hormone called thyroxin, which enters the blood stream and reaches different parts of the body. Deficiency of this hormone reduces the absorption rate of oxygen, which often results in disruption of metabolic functions, excessive fatigue, loss of memory and bluntness of mind. Also, the skin and hair become dry, lips and eyelids become lose and appear as pulled downwards. The body fattens and its plumpness is such that pressing a finger makes a groove (depression) in the swollen part. One is unable to bear chill and feels tired because of the reduced level of this hormone. Growth of the thyroid gland results in a swollen, protuberant throat and gives rise to the diseases like goiter. The reasons for abnormal shrinkage or growth of this gland are not fully understood. It may malfunction even if ones diet is balanced and the daily routine is also maintained at a level, which is normally prescribed for a healthy person... So far, the deficiency of iodine in food is found to be a major cause of disturbing the normal functioning of the thyroid gland. The doctors recommend that the daily meals should contain at least 20 micrograms of iodine. Seawater, natural salt, sea grass and fishes are rich in iodine contents. However, in many cases even the desired intake of iodine and iodine based medicines do not help control the abnormal functioning of this red colored, butterfly shaped tiny gland whose two wings in leaf shaped structures cover the upper end of the respiratory canal. The discovery of a yellow protein colloid in the deep core of this gland had raised hopes that this colloid might be the source of thyroxin secretion. Further research annulled this possibility.

- courtesy Akhand Jyoti