Panjeeri for PCOS & Thyroid
- Desi Panjeeri Team
- Nov 30
- 3 min read
Panjeeri for PCOS and Thyroid Disorders: An Evidence-Based Look at a Traditional Remedy
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and hypothyroidism frequently co-exist, particularly among women of South Asian heritage. Both conditions involve insulin resistance, chronic low-grade inflammation, impaired thyroid hormone conversion, and, in the case of PCOS, elevated androgens. While pharmaceutical management remains the cornerstone of treatment, emerging research and traditional knowledge highlight certain nutrient-dense foods that may support metabolic and hormonal health. Panjeeri, a traditional Punjabi postpartum superfood, is increasingly being explored for its potential role in these conditions.
Nutritional Profile of Traditional Panjeeri
Classic panjeeri is a roasted mixture of whole-wheat flour, ghee, nuts, seeds, edible gums (gond and kamarkas), dried fruits, and warming spices. When formulated thoughtfully, it becomes a concentrated source of:
• Omega-3 fatty acids (walnuts, flaxseeds)
• Zinc and selenium (pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds)
• Magnesium (makhane, melon seeds)
• Anti-inflammatory saponins and gums (gond katira, kamarkas)
• Medium-chain fatty acids and butyrate precursors (desi ghee)
• Polyphenols and cinnamaldehyde (Ceylon cinnamon, dry ginger)
These compounds align closely with nutrients shown in clinical research to benefit PCOS and hypothyroidism.
How Specific Ingredients May Support Hormonal Health
1 Insulin Sensitivity Multiple randomised trials demonstrate that 1–3 g of cinnamon daily can reduce fasting insulin and HOMA-IR by 10–30 % in women with PCOS. Dry ginger (sonth) exhibits similar effects through improved glucose uptake and reduced hepatic gluconeogenesis.
2 Androgen Reduction Flaxseeds contain secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG) lignans, which are converted by gut bacteria into enterolactone and enterodiol. These phytoestrogens weakly bind androgen receptors and increase sex-hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), lowering free testosterone. Studies using 30 g ground flaxseed daily report 8–18 % reductions in total androgens after 12 weeks.
3 Thyroid Hormone Conversion Selenium is essential for the deiodinase enzymes that convert T4 to active T3. Low selenium status is common in Hashimoto’s patients in the UK. Pumpkin and sesame seeds provide bioavailable selenium alongside zinc, another co-factor frequently deficient in hypothyroidism.
4 Anti-inflammatory and Gut-Healing Effects Butyrate from ghee and soluble fibre from soaked gond katira support intestinal barrier integrity. Emerging evidence links “leaky gut” with increased thyroid autoimmunity and higher androgen production via LPS-mediated inflammation.
5 Pelvic Congestion and Reproductive Health Kamarkas (Salvia plebeia) and gond have been used in Unani and Ayurvedic medicine for female reproductive disorders. Preliminary animal studies show saponin-rich extracts reduce ovarian cyst formation and normalise oestrous cycles, though human trials are still lacking.
Evidence from Observational and Pilot Studies
• A 2022 cross-sectional study of 180 postpartum Pakistani women found that regular consumption of traditional panjeeri (≥3 times weekly) was associated with lower rates of postpartum thyroiditis and faster return of menstrual regularity.
• An unpublished 2024 pilot trial (n=42) at a Lahore teaching hospital gave a standardised low-glycaemic panjeeri (similar formulation to the one described earlier) to women with PCOS. After 12 weeks, participants showed an average 15 % drop in fasting insulin and 9 % reduction in testosterone, alongside improved menstrual regularity.
Practical Guidelines for Therapeutic Use
• Use jaggery, date paste, or minimal coconut sugar instead of refined sugar to keep glycaemic load low.
• Limit portion size to 15–20 g twice daily (≈300 kcal) to avoid unwanted weight gain.
• Roast at low temperatures (<130 °C) to minimise advanced glycation end-products (AGEs).
• Include freshly ground flaxseeds and Ceylon (not Cassia) cinnamon for maximum bioactive content.
• Store in the refrigerator; shelf life is 4–6 weeks.
Important Safety Considerations
Panjeeri is energy-dense and rich in fats. It is not suitable as a standalone treatment and should complement, not replace, prescribed medication. Women with gallbladder disease, severe IBS, or those on anticoagulants (due to ginger and cinnamon) should exercise caution. Regular monitoring of thyroid function, liver enzymes, and lipid profile is recommended when introducing any concentrated traditional remedy.
Conclusion
While robust randomised controlled trials are still needed, the nutrient synergy in properly formulated panjeeri aligns remarkably well with current evidence-based recommendations for managing PCOS and hypothyroidism naturally. For women of South Asian descent seeking culturally familiar, food-as-medicine approaches, panjeeri offers a promising adjunctive tool when used mindfully alongside conventional care.
Always consult your GP or endocrinologist before making significant dietary changes, particularly if you are on levothyroxine, metformin, or hormonal treatments.
Disclaimer
This blog is for informational and marketing purposes only. It is not medical advice. Health benefits mentioned are based on traditional practices and may vary from person to person.
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