Graves' disease is the most common form of hyperthyroidism, in which the immune system stimulates the thyroid gland to produce too much thyroid hormone. Graves' disease can cause a myriad of undesirable symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, fatigue, sleep difficulties, irregular heartbeat, sweating, tremors, diarrhea, unintended weight loss, heat intolerance and protruding eyes. Certain herbs may be helpful for Graves' disease. However, before self-treating with herbs, individuals should consult a licensed standard physician as well as a botanically-trained health care professional, such as naturopathic physician, for personalized treatment advice including safe and effective herbal forms, combinations and dosages.
Bugleweed
Bugleweed, also known by its Latin name, Lycopus virginicus, is traditionally used to treat hyperthyroidism. With Graves' disease, thyroid hormone levels in the blood are abnormally elevated. According to Drs. Michael Murray and Peter Bongiorno, naturopathic physicians and authors of the "Textbook of Natural Medicine," bugleweed is thought to reduce circulating thyroid hormone levels in two ways: First, it blocks the thyroid gland's receptors to thyroid stimulating hormone, or TSH, which is a hormone that affects its production of thyroid hormone. Second, bugleweed inhibits the conversion of thyroxine, a less active form of thyroid hormone, to triiodothyronine, the more active form. Even with bugleweed's historical use, as well as some laboratory studies, Drs. Murray and Bongiorno caution that bugleweed and other herbal medicines have not been adequately evaluated for hyperthyroidism in clinical studies.
Gromwell
Gromwell, also known by the common name stoneseed and the Latin name Lithospermum officinale, is another historically used botanical for the treatment of Graves' disease. Like bugleweed, gromwell is thought to help with hyperthyroidism by blocking TSH receptors and reducing thyroxine production. One option for taking gromwell is to infuse the dried herb in hot water and drink as a tea.
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm, or Meslissa officinalis, is a fragrant plant in the mint family. Medicinally, lemon balm is best known for its calming effects. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, lemon balm reduces stress and anxiety, which are commonly associated with Graves' disease. Lemon balm may also promote sleep in individuals who experience insomnia. Drs. Murray and Bongiorno cite lemon balm's therapeutic effect on hyperthyroidism though its activity at TSH receptors.
Valerian
Valerian, or Valeriana officinalis, is an aromatic, sweet and spicy herb. The root is used medicinally. Valerian is known for its calming effects and is considered a stronger sedative than lemon balm. Valerian may be particularly helpful for individuals with Graves' disease who experience restlessness and nervous sleeplessness. Unlike pharmaceutical sleep medications, valerian is not thought to be physically addictive. Valerian can also help relax muscles and may be useful for those experience muscular tension.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Graves' Disease
- "Textbook of Natural Medicine"; Joseph E. Pizzorno, N.D. & Michael T. Murray, N.D.; 2006
- "Bastyr Materia Medica"; Bastyr University Department of Botanical Medicine
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Lemon Balm
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