Dysfunction in the thyroid gland can lead to serious, often life-threatening complications. Hypothyroidism can cause the chemical reactions in the body slow down, with numerous concomitant ailments. In hyperthyroidism, the over-production of thyroid hormone can increase metabolism creating additional difficulties. Home remedies might not help control thyroid hormones sufficiently on their own, but might reduce symptoms of related disorders. Some remedies can cause side effects. Consult a practitioner before using herbs or home remedies for treatment.
Kelp
Herbal preparations using kelp are available from health food stores and can be helpful for regulating the thyroid hormones, according to "The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook: Your Everyday Reference to the Best Herbs for Healing." The amount of kelp needed and frequency of dosing depends on an individual's specific thyroid ailment and their body metabolism. Kelp is high in iodine, one of the primary minerals necessary for proper thyroid function. However, self-treating with kelp might cause further damage to the thyroid and interfere with pharmaceutical medicines for thyroid disease. Kelp or iodine supplementation is only effective when there is a deficiency, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Iodine deficiency is rare in the Western world because it is usually added to common table salt. Too much iodine can cause, rather than cure, hypothyroidism. Consult a health practitioner before adding kelp supplementation to the diet.
Lemon Balm
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the herb lemon balm can be used for thyroid support in cases of hyperthyroidism and may be helpful in establishing normal function for an overactive thyroid gland. Lemon balm can be used in extract form or taken as tea. Consult a health practitioner before using lemon balm.
Homeopathic Fucus Versicelosus
The homeopathic remedy Fucus versicelosus, also known as bladderwrack, comes from a type of seaweed, which is high in iodine and other nutrient-rich substances. This remedy may be helpful for controlling overweight problems associated with hypothyroidism, according to "Materia Medica of Homeopathic Medicines."
Because fucus is high in iodine, it can provide support for the thyroid gland, but can also produce serious side effects if not taken in the correct dosage and for the correct thyroid condition. This is also true when using this product in its herbal state. In particular, it is advisable to avoid herbal bladderwrack for use in hyperthyroidism because it stimulates the production of additional thyroid hormone, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Consult a homeopath or herbal practitioner familiar with using this remedy for use in weight control. Homeopathic remedies are available over the counter and from online homeopathic pharmacies.
Cruciferous Plants
Avoid foods in the Brassica family, also called cruciferous vegetables. These include broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, kale, mustard greens, pears and peaches. These foods are high in a chemical that is considered goitregenic and may suppress thyroid function.
Radishes
Both black and red radishes have been used to control thyroid hormones. The main chemical in radishes called raphanin is responsible for maintaining normal levels of thyroid hormones in both hypo and hyperthyroidism, according to "The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook." Discuss using radishes with a health practitioner before adding them to the diet in large quantities.
References
- "Concise Encyclopedia of Foods and Nutrition"; Audrey H. Ensminger; 1995
- "The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook: Your Everyday Reference to the Best Herbs for Healing"; James Duke; 2002
- "Materia Medica of Homeopathic Medicines"; Dr. S.R. Phatak; 1988
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Hyperthyroidism
