Overactive Thyroid Herbal Remedies

Some people who have an overactive thyroid or hyperthyroidism prefer using herbal remedies over conventional medicine to control the production of thyroid hormones, which may require the use of radioactive substances to manage thyroid activity. Although the herbal treatments may not work for everyone, many people do experience positive results; and in some cases are able to avoid thyroid gland surgery. If you are using herbs to control your thyroid, keep in mind that they can produce side effects. You should not treat yourself for this condition; consult a knowledgeable herbal practitioner familiar with this form of treatment.

Bugleweed

Bugleweed, or Lycopus virginica, is used to slow down and regulate thyroid function, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC. Its properties help to slow the release of the active thyroid hormones into the blood stream. When taken as an infusion, or herbal tea, bugleweed helps to slow a racing pulse and reduce nervousness and irritability, notes author Andrew Chevallier in his book, "Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine." Make the tea by steeping 1 g to 2 g of fresh leaves in a cup of boiling water. Strain and drink when cooled. Do not use bugleweed if you have hypothryoidism. Consult your health practitioner for dosage guidelines.

Lemon Balm

Lemon balm, or Melissa officinalis, works in a similar manner to bugleweed, helping to normalize an overactive thyroid, and is frequently used in combination with it to make a thyroid tonic, according to UMMC. Lemon balm's effects are much like those of a tranquilizer, calming a nervous stomach, slowing the pulse and heart rate and lowering blood pressure, says Chevallier. Lemon balm tea, on its own, can be used to treat diseases related to hyperthyroidism, such as hypertension, nervous disorders and migraines, according to Georgetown University Medical Center. Lemon balm tea can be made by steeping 2 tbsp. of the fresh leaves in 1 cup of boiling water. Alternatively, UMMC recommends doses ranging between 300 mg to 500 mg daily. Do not use lemon balm if you have an underactive thyroid. Only use this herb under supervision of a knowledgeable health practitioner.

Motherwort

Motherwort, or Leonurus cardiaca, is used to slow down a rapid heartbeat and temporarily lower the blood pressure resulting from hyperthyroidism. Motherwort is approved by Germany's Commission E, which is the equivalent to the FDA in the United States, for treatment of rapid heartbeat resulting from stress and anxiety and can be included in a treatment plan for those with overactive thyroid, says the NYU Langone Medical Center. It also says that the Commission E recommends a dose of 4.5 g of dried herb daily, which can be consumed by making herbal tea. Consult your health practitioner for specific guidelines pertaining to dose.

Chinese Herbs

Several herbs are used commonly in traditional Chinese medicine to regulate the thyroid and help to return it to normal function. Rehmannia, dioscorea and cornus are used by themselves and mixed in an herbal tonic to manage the thyroid and control symptoms such as rapid heart beat, perspiring, nervousness and anxiety. Consult a doctor of Oriental medicine for Chinese herbs and tonics made specifically for your needs.