Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland fails to produce enough thyroid hormone. It can be caused by several diseases or deficiencies. Some individuals with hypothyroidism have developed the condition due to not getting enough iodine in their diet, while others have hypothyroidism because of an autoimmune disease that causes the immune system to attack the thyroid gland. If you have an underactive thyroid, you could benefit from the use of several herbs that can help increase the amount of thyroid hormone released from the thyroid or boost iodine levels if needed.
Bladderwrack
Taking bladderwrack (Fucus vesiculosus) may help to improve hypothyroidism that's due to an iodine deficiency. Bladderwrack is a brown seaweed that contains concentrations of iodine, according to PeaceHealth.org. Bladderwrack shouldn't be taken if you have hypothyroidism that's not due to an iodine deficiency, cautions the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). If your condition is appropriate for bladderwrack use, the UMMC recommends taking 600mg of the herb one to three times daily. Kelp supplements may also be used in treating hypothyroidism due to its high iodine content.
Coleus
Coleus (Coleus forskohlii) increases the release of hormones from the thyroid gland, according to the Herb Growing & Marketing Network. Taking 50 to 100mg of coleus extract two or three times each day can help to treat low thyroid function, the UMMC says. Coleus extracts typically contain a standardized 10 to 18 percent concentration of forskolin, the active ingredient, according to the University of Michigan Health System (UMHS).
Guggul
The guggul (Commiphora mukul) stem's inner resin-like substance is used medicinally, says the UMHS. Guggul is most commonly used to lower high triglyceride levels in the blood and promote weight loss, but it can also be taken for low-thyroid support. Individuals with hypothyroidism who need thyroid support can take 250 to 500mg of guggul extract three times daily, recommends the UMMC. The guggul extract is measured in its concentration of guggulsterones, with most extracts containing less than a 2.5 to 5 percent concentration, the UMHS explains.
