Hypothyoidism is a condition that occurs when your thyroid does not produce enough thyroid hormones. As a result, you may experience symptoms including increased susceptibility to the cold, weight gain, tiredness and headaches. If you suffer from an underactive thyoid, your doctor may give you a drug called levothyroxine, a synthetic form of thyroid hormone. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that if you have hypothyoidism, conventional medical treatment is necessary. However, you may choose to supplement your treatment plan with herbs, some of which may support an underactive thyroid. Talk to your doctor before taking herbs for a thyroid condition.
Bladderwrack
A type of seaweed known as bladderwrack may boost an underactive thyroid, UMMC states. However, it contains variable amounts of iodine, high doses of which may make your thyroid condition worse. As such, you should only use this herb under medical supervision. Medline Plus notes that prolonged bladderwrack use may increase the risk of goiter and thyroid cancer. It may also contain toxic heavy metals like arsenic. Do not use this herb if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you are allergic to iodine. Bladderwrack may slow blood clotting, so avoid it if you are scheduled to undergo surgery or if you are taking anticoagulants.
Coleus Forskohlii
Coleus forskohlii, also known as forskolin, may help to boost an underactive thyroid, according to UMMC. However, clinical studies to establish its effectiveness are lacking. This herb comes from the roots of a plant called Plectranthus barbatus and is sometimes used as an alternative treatment for asthma. Coleus forskohlii is likely safe for most adults, but side effects may include cough, tremor and restlessness, RxList states. Do not use this herb if you have heart disease, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Coleus forskohlii may interact with a number of drugs including calcium channel blockers. Ask your doctor whether this herb is suitable for you.
Guggul
UMMC notes that guggul, an herb sourced form the resin of a plant used in traditional Indian medicine, may help support low thyroid function. However, research to show that it is effective is lacking. Guggul appears safe, according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, but it may cause minor side effects such as loose stools and gastrointestonal discomfort. Guggul may heighten the effects of drugs used to treat an underactive thyroid, so ask your doctor whether it is safe to use this herb alongside your thyroid medicine.
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