Overproduction of the thyroid hormone results in hyperthyroidism. Characterized by a constant intolerance to heat, insensitivity to cold, insomnia, nervousness and irritability, this disorder speeds up all of the body's systems, according to Dr. Simeon Margolis in "The Johns Hopkins Complete Home Guide to Symptoms and Remedies." Prescribed medications carry many side effects and some patients may not want surgery to correct the problem. Holistic remedies offer natural and inexpensive ways to treat hyperthyroidism.
Herbal Help
Considered one of the best herbs to treat hyperthyroidism, lemon balm helps calm the overproduction of the thyroid hormone. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends an intake of 300 to 500mg three times daily of the dried herb or drinking a fresh cup of lemon balm tea, two to four times daily. Bugleweed tablets, taken as directed on the label, relieves nervousness, irritability, insomnia, fatigue and increased perspiration all associated with hyperthyroidism, according to Phyllis A. Balch, CNC in her book "Prescriptions for Herbal Healing."
Diet Changes
Eliminating all caffeinated products reduces nervousness, irritability and insomnia. Because hyperthyroidism shifts the body's metabolism into high gear, it makes absorption of nutrients challenging. Increasing the amount of foods high in B-vitamins, the natural stress-relieving and energy-producing nutrients, keeps the body's ability to fight off other stress-related illnesses active and healthy. Healthy fats such as those contained in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated sources, maintain healthy nerves and fights off a breakdown of the fat covering the nerves. Increasing food sources rich in antioxidants prevents body systems from the ravages of free radicals more prevalent in persons suffering from hyperthyroidism, according to Balch.
Creating Calm
Using aromatherapy products containing lavender promotes a sense of tranquility and calm, states Balch. Lavender sachets tucked inside a pillowcase foster relaxation and sleepiness. Soft lighting, calm music and reading before bed, relaxes the body and decreases the likelihood of insomnia. Vanilla also promotes relaxation and calm. Scented candles and a warm bath before bed relax the muscles and induce sleep in a person suffering from hyperthyroidism. Eliminating sources of distraction and stimulation, such as a television in the bedroom and vigorous exercise before sleep promotes sleep that is more restful.
Before initiating any holistic treatments, discussing the idea with a doctor will reveal any possible drug-to-herb interactions and implications for recovery and management of the disorder.
References
- "Prescriptions for Herbal Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch; 2002
- "The Johns Hopkins Complete Home Guide to Symptoms and Remedies"; Simeon Margolis, M.D., Ph.D.; 2004
- The Mayo Clinic: Hyperthyroidism
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Hyperthyroidism
