Insufficient production of thyroid hormone causes hypothyroidism. The American Academy of Family Physicians' website states that women over 50 years of age are more commonly affected than other population groups. If not treated properly, hypothyroidism can lead to significant health complications, such as obesity, infertility and heart disease. Herbal medication may help treat your thyroid ailment, but you should always discuss the use of herbal remedies with your doctor before using them to treat your condition.
Hypothyroidism
Some of the most characteristic symptoms of hypothyroidism include chronic fatigue, decreased appetite, an inability to tolerate cold, low body temperature, painful premenstrual periods, heavy periods, slow heart rate, weight gain, increased cholesterol levels, fertility problems and muscle weakness. Medline Plus states that several factors may cause this condition, including an autoimmune disease called Hashimoto's thyroiditis, birth defects, neck radiation treatments, surgical removal of part of your thyroid gland, viral thyroiditis and certain medications.
Herbal Medication
Herbal medications have been used for many years to help treat hypothyroidism or its associated symptoms. Phyllis A. Balch, a certified nutritional consultant and author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," states that the following herbs may be helpful in treating hypothyroidism: bayberry, black cohosh, goldenseal, gentian and mugwort extracts and herbal bitters such as Swedish bitters. Hypothyroidism caused by iodine deficiency may respond to kelp and bladderwrack herbal supplementation, as these herbs contain a significant amount of iodine and other trace elements.
A Featured Herb
Bayberry, an herbal medication, is used to treat hypothyroidism. According to Balch, bayberry has been used to treat hypothyroidism, circulatory disorders, fever and ulcers. Bayberry is a decongestant, possesses astringent action and helps arrest bleeding. Bayberry helps improve your eye health and boosts your immune system. This herbal medication contains potassium, selenium, zinc and vitamins B-1, B-2, B-3 and C. The root bark of bayberry, a small tree, is used for medicinal purposes.
Suggestions
Combining herbal medications with other treatment measures may provide the most significant treatment benefits for your hypothyroidism. Consider including certain foods in your diet, such as apricots, dates, egg yolks, parsley and whole grains. Avoiding certain foods, especially processed and refined foods, may also be helpful. Walking, yoga and other forms of moderate exercise are often beneficial in treating your condition. Before taking herbal medications to help treat your ailment, check with your doctor about possible interactions with other drugs you might be taking.
References
- American Academy of Family Physicians: Hypothyroidism
- Medline Plus: Hypothyroidism
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
