An enlarged thyroid, also known as goiter, is an excessive growth of the thyroid gland which becomes visible as a mass around the neck, according to Endocrine Web.com. Although it is often uncomfortable, a goiter is rarely painful. A non-malignant goiter is often caused by an increase in thyroid stimulating hormone, which is a result of an abnormality in thyroid hormone production. You should see your doctor about a goiter, as it will need to be treated medically and a more precise diagnosis made. However, some herbal tinctures and preparations may assist in your efforts to eliminate a goiter.
Evening Primrose Oil
According to Herbs2000, essential fatty acids may be useful in promoting normal and healthy thyroid function. Oil of the evening primrose herb contains high amounts of gammalinoleic acid, an essential fatty acid. Evening primrose oil is available in many supplement forms. Evening primrose oil is also purported to have various other health benefits, but these have not been medically proven.
Bladderwrack/Kelp
The trace mineral iodine is essential to normal thyroid function, and a deficiency in the iodine is a possible cause of goiter, reports Herbs2000. Seaweeds such as kelp and bladderwrack may be useful in assisting thyroid function and eliminating goiter. According to AltMD.com, bladderwrack is available in capsule forms, as a powder or tea. Investigate the source of the seaweed preparation you use to avoid heavy metal contamination, and consult your doctor prior to beginning this regimen.
Dandelion
Dandelion is also considered an herbal remedy for goiter, according to Ayurvedic Cure.com. Dandelion leaves should be warmed or smeared with ghee, a type of clarified butter available at health food stores or Indian groceries. After applying, bandage the preparation around your neck region. This may reduce the swelling to some extent, reports Ayurvedic Cure.com; however, dandelion is not a scientifically provable cure for goiter.
Cabbage
Herbs2000 reports that cabbage is a useful natural remedy for addressing goiter. You can prepare a poultice made of cabbage and clay and apply it to the neck area. You should leave this poultice on your neck for five minutes initially, increasing the length of time with each use. Ayurvedic Cure.com also suggests taking a tincture containing 1 tsp. of cabbage leaf juice combined with tea almonds. Although cabbage is highly regarded as an herbal remedy for goiter, it has not been proven in scientific studies.
