If you have an underactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism, it means that your thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones. These hormones regulate the metabolism in virtually every cell in your body. Conventional treatment calls for synthetic thyroid hormones or hormones obtained from animals. Unfortunately, there are no plant-based sources for these hormones. However, if the thyroid has not stopped functioning completely, certain herbs may stimulate a sluggish thyroid.
Gentian Violet
Gentian stabilizes thyroid functioning, according to naturopathic physician Rita Louise, Ph.D. This opinion is echoed by James Duke in his book "The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook," in which he refers to an herbal formula for underactive thyroid developed by Daniel Mowrey, Ph.D. that combines gentian with cayenne, Irish moss, saw palmetto and kelp.
Mustard Greens
Certain species of mustard, including Brassica nigra and Sinapis alba, may help to normalize thyroid function, says Duke. Mustard greens are rich in iodine and tyrosine, both of which are used by the thyroid to manufacture thyroid hormones.
Walnuts
In Turkey, various species of walnuts are considered a traditional remedy for thyroid irregularities. A few scientific studies on the effects of walnuts on thyroid function produced mixed results. For instance, Duke claims that research has shown that the juice of green walnuts increases the production of the thyroid hormone thyroxine from 30 to 50 percent.On the other hand, Spanish researchers report that walnuts clearly demonstrate a goitrogenic effect in rats, meaning that certain walnut compounds suppress thyroid function and actually increase the excretion of thyroxine. However, the researchers also noted that the walnut-supplemented diet increased the release of thyroid stimulating hormone, which in turn triggers the thyroid to produce more thyroxine.
Radish
John Heinerman, Ph.D., author of "Heinerman's Encyclopedia of Fruits, Vegetables and Herbs," reports that Russian physicians have used radishes to address thyroid disorders for many years. He says that raphanin, the active chemical in radishes, keeps thyroid hormones levels in check.
Kelp
Duke says that kelp may help to correct an underactive thyroid. As he points out, kelp is very high in iodine, a mineral required by the thyroid to produce sufficient levels of thyroid hormones. Sushi can be a plentiful source of kelp. If you're not a sushi fan, Duke recommends adding kelp to soups and salads. You can also buy powdered kelp and sprinkle it on cooked foods.
References
- Holistic Health News: Combating Hypothyroidism Naturally
- "The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook"; Rodale Books; 2000
- Endocrinology: Goitrogenic Effect of Walnut and Its Action on Thyroxine Excretion
- "Heinerman's Encyclopedia of Fruits, Vegetables and Herbs, 14th Edition"; Parker Publishing Company; 1998
