Hypothyroidism is a medical condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce adequate amounts of thyroid hormone. Low thyroid hormone can result in a number of symptoms, including fatigue, weight gain, hair loss, constipation, depression, dry skin, and brittle nails and others. Hypothyroidism can occur for several reasons, including auto-immunity diseases, deficiencies of nutrients such as iodine or tyrosine, pituitary gland dysfunction, toxicity, or without any identifiable cause.
For those looking for a natural thyroid remedy, there are several circumstances in which herbs may benefit hypothyroidism. According to naturopath Dr. Nicole Schertell, herbs are best indicated when the patient has mild hypothyroidism, subclinical hypothyroidism, or exhibits thyroid symptoms with lab results that fall within the normal reference range. Many naturopathic doctors believe that TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) levels should remain below 2.5, and that T3 or T4 levels should remain above the bottom third of the laboratory reference range for optimal thyroid function. When herbs are used in conjunction with thyroid medication, the patient should remain under the close supervision of a health care provider.
Bladderwrack
Bladderwrack is the common name for Fucus vesiculosus. Although it is a seaweed, it is also an herb possessing medicinal properties that may be beneficial for hypothyroidism. Bladderwrack provides minerals and trace elements including iodine, which is necessary for thyroid hormone production. Although Bladderwrack can be consumed as a tea or tincture, it is best to eat the frond pieces as food, such as in soup. One heaping teaspoon of Bladderwrack fronds is an appropriate daily dose. This herb should only be used in cases of low thyroid hormone, and should be avoided in the presense of hyperthyroidism, iodine allergy, pregnancy, and nursing.
Guggul
Gum guggul is the common name for Commiphora mukul, a resinous herbal extract that has a stimulating effect on the thyroid gland. In addition to its benefits to the thyroid, it also has a cholesterol-lowering effect and is widely used as a gargle to treat acute store throats. A study in the January 2005 edition of Phytotherapy Research investigated the efficacy of this herb, and the findings support the possible use of Commiphora mukul in ameliorating hypothyroidism. A typical dose of Gum guggul would be 10 to 40 drops of liquid extract, up to four times daily.
Ashwaghanda
Ashwaghandha is the common name for Withania somnifera, a popular herb that is widely used around the world. Although Ashwaghandha may not directly affect the thyroid gland, it is an adaptogenic herb that helps the body to cope with stress more effectively. An article in the June 2009 edition of Biological Psychiatry states that in addition to cortisol and other stress hormones, thyroid hormones have also been related to stress. The study found that thyroid hormones became low with chronically stressed animals, and that thyroid hormones are important immune regulators that also play a role in protecting the body from tumor growth.
References
- Phytotherapy Research; Guggulu (Commiphora mukul) potentially ameliorates hypothyroidism in female mice; Panda, et al; 2005.
- Biological Psychiatry; Involvement of thyroid hormones in the alterations of T-cell immunity and tumor progression induced by chronic stress; Frick LR, et al; 2009
- Nicole Schertell, ND; Whole Life Health Care; Newington, NH.
