Numerous supplements may help treat your low-functioning thyroid. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, or NIDDK, low thyroid levels may be a sign of hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism is a condition in which your thyroid gland is not able to generate enough thyroid hormone to meet your body's needs. About 5 percent of Americans have hypothyroidism. Before taking herbs to treat your low-functioning thyroid, talk with your doctor about possible complications and proper dosage.
Bladderwrack
Bladderwrack is an herb that may be helpful for your low-functioning thyroid. According to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, or MSKCC, bladderwrack, also known as Fucus vesiculosus, is a seaweed commonly found on both the Atlantic and Pacific coasts of North America. Bladderwrack has been used to treat numerous health conditions, including obesity, fatigue, menstrual abnormalities and hypothyroidism. Dr. Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician and author of the book "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," states that bladderwrack improves nutrition by supplying minerals and trace elements such as iodine. Bladderwrack, notes Tilgner, is indicated for hypothyroidism caused by lack of iodine. Iodine supplementation are contraindicated, or not recommended, during pregnancy or while nursing. Before taking bladderwrack for your low-functioning thyroid, talk with your doctor about possible side effects and proper dosage.
Gum Guggul
Gum guggul is an herb that may be beneficial for treating your low-functioning thyroid. The University of Michigan Health System, or UMHS, states that gum guggul, also known as gum guggulu, is a yellowish resin produced by the stem of the mukul myrrh tree, which is a small, thorny plant that grows throughout India. Gum guggul contains resin, volatile oils and gum. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC, 25 mg of guggulsterones taken three times per day may be effective to counteract elevated cholesterol, which often accompanies hypothyroidism or low-functioning thyroid. Gum guggul has been known to interfere with certain medications, including hormone medications. Before taking gum guggul for your low-functioning thyroid, talk with your doctor about possible side effects, proper dosage and potential drug interactions.
Kelp
Kelp is an herb that may be helpful for treating your low-functioning thyroid. There are numerous kinds of kelp, and the entire kelp plant may be used medicinally. According to Dr. William A. Mitchell Jr., a naturopathic physician and author of the book "Plant Medicine in Practice," kelp, also known as Fucus versicolor, may be used to treat your low-functioning thyroid gland, especially if your thyroid problems are caused by an iodine deficiency. Mitchell states that kelp has the highest mineral content of any botanical, and that it also contains a number of trace minerals and micronutrients. Mitchell recommends taking 20 drops of kelp tincture two to three times per day, or taking capsulated powders. Before taking kelp for your low-functioning thyroid, talk with your doctor about proper dosage and possible side effects.
