The thyroid is a gland located at the base of the neck. It produces hormones that regulate metabolism. Hypothyroidism, also known as an under-active thyroid, occurs when the thyroid produces too little thyroid hormone. Symptoms may include weight gain, fatigue and constipation. In contrast, a person with an over-active thyroid produces too much thyroid hormone and might experience weight loss, sweating and heat intolerance. Both of these thyroid disorders can usually be treated with medicines that help regulate hormone production. Herbs are also sometimes used to help to balance the thyroid, although evidence to prove they work is lacking. Don't use herbs in place of prescription treatments and get medical clearance before using them.
Underactive Thyroid Herbal Remedies
Several herbs might boost an under-active thyroid, including bladderwrack. A type of seaweed, bladderwrack is a rich source of the mineral iodine, a lack of which might cause hypothyroidism. Paradoxically, the University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC, notes that too much iodine can also cause hypothyroidism, so it is difficult to say how beneficial bladderwrack might be. In addition, MedlinePlus states there is insufficient evidence to rate bladderwrack as a treatment for thyroid disorders.
Overactive Thyroid Herbal Remedies
UMMC notes that lemon balm, also known as Melissa officinalis, might help to normalize an overactive thyroid. However, clinical evidence to prove it works is lacking. An herb called ashwagandha, traditionally used in Indian medicine, is sometimes recommended for hyperthyoidism, although UMMC warns that this herb might actually further stimulate an over-active thyroid. In addition, clinical evidence to prove either of these herbs are effective thyroid treatments is lacking. Get medical advice before using of these herbs to treat your condition.
Safety Considerations
Lemon balm is listed on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's generally recognized as safe list, but Mississippi Baptist Health Systems notes that it might impair mental function and could trigger an allergic reaction. MedlinePlus notes that bladderwrack is possibly unsafe because it contains variable amounts of iodine, which may worsen a thyroid problem. Don't use it unless directed to do so by your doctor. Ashwagandha may have abortive properties so don't use it if you are pregnant.
Other Considerations
Herbs might heighten the effects of other medicines you are be taking. For example, lemon balm might increase the effects of sedatives. Ashwagandha might also boost the effects of barbiturates. Keep in mind that herbs are also be contraindicated in certain conditions. For example, bladderwrack is not suitable for people who are allergic to iodine. Get medical clearance before using any of these herbs to treat a thyroid problem.
References
- BBC Health: Thyroid; Dr. Gill Jenkins and Dr. Rob Hicks; June 2009
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Hypothyroidism
- MedlinePlus: Bladderwrack
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Hyperthyroidism
- Mississippi Baptist Health Systems: Lemon Balm
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Ashwagandha
