Herbs and Hypothyroidism
The thyroid hormones are essential to the proper functioning of the body's metabolic functions and the use of herbs in hyperthyroidism (under-production of the thyroid hormones) has become more common-place.
Herbs and Hypothyroidism
The one essential, common ingredient to the thyroid hormones is iodine. One of the most commonly used herbs in hypothyroidism treatment is the seaweed, kelp. This seaweed is a rich source of iodine. The body also requires vitamin 'E' for assimilating the iodine in the body which can be obtained from herbs like wheat germ and sunflower seeds.
Vitamins 'A' and 'C' are also required for the production of the thyroid hormones in addition to all the vitamins of the 'B' complex. Some other commonly-used herbs in hypothyroidism, which supply these vitamins are : carrots (Vitamin A), amla (Indian Gooseberry) (Vitamin C), spirulina and alfalfa (Vitamin B). In addition, some essential fatty acids , which are required to make the thyroid function normally must also be included in the diet. An example is the amino acid, typtophan, a precursor of the 'feel-good' neurotransmitter serotonin, which is found in chamomile.
The vitamins obtained from herbs are also widely known to help people with such other diseases as high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, heart disease and stroke or brain attacks.
Many types of thyroid disorders can be alleviated by certain herbal remedies, which must be used along with the diet. The use of these herbs in hypothyroidism often yields very remarkable improvements:
- The herbal extract of rosemary with extract of fir can be mixed with the patient's bath-water and this soothes the patient
- Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca) helps to lower rapid heartbeat (tachycardia).
- Turmeric (Curcuma longa) enhances the effect of bromelain
- Nettle balances both the under-activity and the over-activity of the thyroid
- Bladderwrack (Fucus vesiculosus), a type of seaweed contains iodine and hypothyroidism due to iodine deficiency has been seen to respond to administration of this herb
- The wild oat (Avena sativa) is used to treat depression, low libido and lack of energy in hypothyroidism
- Makandi or Pashanbad (Coleus forskohlii), a member of the mint family,stimulates the thyroid and helps it releases thyroid hormones
- Black Cohosh (Actaea racemosa) is indicated for use in the treatment of menstrual problems caused by hypothyroidism
- St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) has been found very effective in teh treatment of hypothyroidism-induced depression
- Cayenne can help increase the blood circulation and strengthen the heartbeat
The use of certain herbs in hypothyroidism should be avoided. For example, a herbal tea made of Bugleweed (Lycopus virginica) and lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) has been observed to normalize the functioning of a hyperactive thyroid by reducing the production of the thyroid hormones and should, therefore, be avoided by patients with hypothyroidism.
The following are general suggestions:
* Bugleweed (Lycopus virginica) and lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) help to normalize an overactive thyroid. Steep the following amount in one cup of boiling water. Strain and cool. For bugleweed, 1 - 2 g. For lemon balm, 2 tbs. These herbs may be combined.
* Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca) can help regulate rapid heartbeat. Steep 2 g in a cup of boiling water. Strain and cool. Drink 3 times per day. Talk to your health care provider before taking motherwort if you already take medicine to slow your heartbeat.
* Turmeric (Curcuma longa) makes the effects of bromelain stronger and should be taken between meals, 500 mg three times per day.
Some herbs can help combat hypothyroidism, nettle will balance the thyroid with both under and over activity. Bladderwrack (Fucus vesiculosus) is a type of brown seaweed that contains iodine. Hypothyroidism due to small intake of iodine may possibly improve with bladderwrack supplementation
Avena sativa is derived from the wild oat plant and is a well known restorative and nerve tonic, used to treat depression, low libido and lack of energy, as well as hypothyroidism.
Coleus forskohlii is a well respected and often difficult to obtain Ayurvedic (Indian) remedy, traditionally used to treat high blood pressure. It also acts to stimulate the thyroid to release thyroid hormones and is therefore beneficial in the treatment of hypothyroidism. Nowadays it is often more practical to seek a perscription to combat hypertension like Micardis or Lopressor.
Black Cohosh is especially good for treating menstrual problems associated with hypothyroidism. It's a popular treatment for menopausal women, treats symptoms of PMS and may help with infertility.
St. John's Wort could be helpful if you suffer from depression a symptom that often accompanies low thyroid function
Cayenne supplements can help with blood circulation and making the heartbeat stronger. An improvement in circulation can alleviate the cold extremities that are common with hypothyroidism.
