The thyroid is a gland situated near the base of your neck. This gland produces hormones that regulate metabolism, or the conversion of foods to energy, according to Dr. James Balch and Mark Stengler, authors of "Prescription for Natural Cures." However, thyroid disorders may affect your thyroid's ability to produce metabolism-related hormones. This may result in symptoms such as weakness and fatigue. Thyroid disorders may also cause weight problems such as obesity or low body weight. Natural herbs may help regulate thyroid function and maintain healthy metabolism.
Talk to your physician before treating a thyroid disorder with herbs.
Nux Vomica
Nux vomica may help regulate thyroid function, particularly if you have hypothyroidism, which is characterized by insufficient production of thyroid hormones, according to Balch and Stengler. This herb is native to southeast Asia but now grows in Europe as well. Nux vomica may also help relieve fatigue, irriatbility, muscle asches and constipation associated with thyroid disorders. Check with your doctor if you plan to treat a thyroid problem with nux vomica. This herb may be toxic to your body.
Kelp
Kelp is a type of algae that grows in waters along the coasts of North America, Europe and Japan, according to Michael Castleman, author of "The Healing Herbs." This herb is an abundant source of iodine, which is necessary for proper thyroid function. Kelp may help relieve goiter, a thyroid problem related to iodine deficiency. Goiter is characterized by enlargement of the thyroid gland and manifests as a large growth in the neck. Consult your physician before treating thyroid problems with kelp. You should not use this herb if you have hypertension, or high blood pressure.
Ashwaghanda
Ashwaghanda is an herb commonly used in Ayurvedic Indian medicine, according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center website. Ayurvedic healers typically recommend this herb for treating fatigue, diabetes, skin diseases, muscle pain and anxiety. It may also help improve thyroid function and regulate metabolism, according to Balch and Stengler. Talk to your doctor before treating thyroid problems with ashwaghanda. Because this herb may stimulate uterine contractions, you should not use it if you are pregnant.
References
- "Prescription for Natural Cures;" James F. Balch, M.D. and Mark Stengler, N.D.; 2004
- "The Healing Herbs;" Michael Castleman; 1991
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Ashwaghanda
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