The thyroid is a small gland in the throat that regulates the body's temperature by secreting hormones that affect how quickly the body burns calories. The most common thyroid problem is hypothyroidism, which occurs when this gland does not produce enough hormones to burn calories efficiently. According to James F. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," hypothyroidism affects about 5 million people in the United States. While there are prescription drugs that can help regulate the thyroid, you can also use herbs to control the function of this gland.
Bayberry
Bayberry is an herb that grown in the eastern United States. Although colonists used the herb as a candle fragrance, the Choctaw Indians boiled the leaves and used the resulting decoction to treat fever, notes Michael Castleman, author of "The Healing Herbs." Bayberry may also help regulate the thyroid and stimulate the metabolism, notes Dr. Balch. Boil 1 tsp. of powdered bayberry root in a pint of water and let it steep for 10 minutes. Let it cool and drink one or two cups per day.
Goldenseal
Goldenseal is another herb that can regulate the hormones secreted by the thyroid gland, according to Dr. Balch. The root of this plant releases a yellow juice that was used by Native Americans to make clothing dyes, but goldenseal also has a long history of medicinal use, notes Castleman. While herbalists primarily use the root of the goldenseal plant as an antiseptic, it has recently gained attention as a remedy for hypothyroidism. Boil 1 tsp. of goldernseal root per cup of water and drink it once or twice per day. Dr. Balch cautions women against using goldenseal for more than a week at a time--it may induce uterine contractions.
Blach Cohosh
Native Americans used black cohosh root to treat rattlesnake bites, arthritis and menstrual cramps. According to Dr. Balch, this herb may also stimulate the thyroid, helping to speed metabolism and aid in weight loss. Boil 1/2 tsp. of the dried root in a cup of water and leave it to cool for 30 minutes. Mix 1 tbsp. each of honey and lemon juice to mask the herb's bitter taste and unpleasant aroma. Take 2 tsp. of the mixture four times a day.
Although side effects are rare, some people may experience diarrhea, vomiting and abdominal pain when taking black cohosh.
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; James F. Balch, MD; 1997
- "The Healing Herbs"; Michael Castleman; 1991
