Thyroid disease occurs when the thyroid gland, a small butterfly-shaped gland found at the front of the neck, produces too much or too little thyroid hormones. Too much thyroid hormone production can result in hyperthyroidism or Graves disease. Too little thyroid hormone production can result in hypothyroidism or Hashimoto's disease. Both conditions often require prescription medication in order to be regulated. Herbal treatments may be used in addition to conventional medication to help control symptoms.
Hyperthyroid Disease
Hyperthyroidism produces an overactive metabolic state. Many of the body's processes are sped up, causing symptoms such as nervousness, irritability, heat intolerance, insomnia, fatigue, weight loss, increased bowel movements, muscle and joint pain, headaches, rapid heartbeat, and hand tremors. The most common form of hyperthyroidism called Grave's Disease is when the body's immune system produces abnormal antibodies. These antibodies cause the thyroid to produce extra thyroid hormone. Traditional treatment may include medication to slow the release of thyroid hormone; radioactive iodine treatment, which slowly shrinks the size of the gland; or surgery to remove part or the entire gland.
Hypothyroid Disease
Hypothyroidism, when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone, causes symptoms such as weight gain, fatigue, hair loss, joint pain and swelling, slow heart rate, intolerance to cold, muscle cramps, constipation, depression, and dry skin. Hashimoto's disease, the most common cause of an underactive thyroid, is when the thyroid produces antibodies against its own thyroid tissue. Treatment typically requires thyroid replacement hormone to make up for the insufficient amount being produced by the body.
Herbs for Hyperthyroidism
Herbal remedies may help reduce the symptoms of a mildly overactive thyroid. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends taking lemon balm to help support an overactive thyroid. Lemon balm, a member of the mint family, may help reduce stress and anxiety. Considered a calming and soothing herb, lemon balm is often combined with chamomile or valerian to reduce nervousness and promote relaxation. Steep 2 tbsp. of lemon balm in boiling water, strain and drink daily for thyroid support.
Herbs for Hypothyroidism
In addition to synthetic thyroid hormone prescribed by a medical professional, herbs may be used to help strengthen the thyroid gland. Guggul, an Ayurvedic herb used to treat arthritis and obesity, may help support an underactive thyroid and reduce joint pain associated with hypothyroidism. UMMC recommends taking 250 to 500 mg, three times a day, to support thyroid function. Colues, a member of the mint family, may help stimulate thyroid function. UMMC recommends a dose of 50 to 100 mg, two to three times a day, for thyroid health.
Considerations
Both hyper- and hypothyroidism are easily diagnosed with a blood test and a physical examination by a medical professional or endocrinologist. Once on medication for thyroid disease, blood tests are required every six months to a year. Medicine adjustments may be necessary from time to time. Herbs may enhance or interfere with the function of thyroid medication. Always speak with a doctor before taking any herbs or before changing or stopping prescription medications.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Hyperthyroidism
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Hypothyroidism
- KidsHealth: Thyroid Disease and Teens
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing, 5th Edition", Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
