7 Best Herbal Remedies For Hypothyroidism

Like the other organs and glands in the human system, even the largest endocrine gland, Thyroid is affected by certain conditions. Hypothyroidism, also called Adult Hypothyroidism or Myxedema refers to an underactive thyroid gland and is characterized by below normal thyroid hormone formation.

The causes of such a condition include birth defects, autoimmune disease, surgical removal of a part of the gland or exposure to radiation during treatment. The clinical features of Hypothyroidism include exhaustion, physical weakness, abnormally lowered tolerance towards cold, constipation and increase in body weight, which is, difficult to lose.

All these symptoms stem owing to the slow rate of metabolism. Besides hormone replacement therapy, there are plenty of natural herbs at your disposal that aid in restoring normal thyroid working.

Top 7 Herbal Remedies For Treating Hypothroidism

Bladderwrack Battles Hypothyroidism

Did you know that the seaweed, which is, mostly found near water bodies, for example, North Sea and Atlantic Ocean was found to be the earliest source of iodine? This is the main reason behind the herb’s (also known as black tang, sea oak, red fucus, rock wrack) considerable use as a herbal remedy for patients with hypothyroidism. Fucus vesiculosus is believed to receive many of the symptoms caused by the underactive thyroid.

According to the Univesity Of Maryland And Medical Center, a dose of approximately 600 mg can be taken once or thrice each day to augment the slow working of thyroid gland.

Its use is not advisable for expectant or breastfeeding females. Thus, it is good to consume this edible herb under medical supervision. Those taking blood thinning drugs should take dose related instructions from their physician as bladderwrack is known to be involved in certain drug interactions.

Gum Guggul Activates Thyroid Gland

The botanical name of herbal thyroid stimulant, Gum guggul is Commiphora mukul. The yellow resinous extract derived from the stem part of Mukul myrrh tree consists of volatile oils and resins in abundance. The pungent smell and acrid taste of this herb should not deter you from giving it a try.

The active compound found in Guggul is called guggulsterone and has the power to influence thyroid function and improve the condition of hypothyroidism. A published journal titled ‘Phototherapy Research’ confirms the effective role of guggulsterone.

Another book ‘Exercise and Sport Nutrition’ mention that the chief ingredient can enhance the output of the underactive endocrine gland as well as accelerate the conversion rate of T4 into T3, which is deficient in hypothyroid patients. Herbalists recommend a dose of 75 mg thrice in a day which is apt for raising the metabolic rate.

An added advantage of having the herb is a decrease in the level of harmful cholesterol, one of the features of hypothyroidism. The incidence of side effects is low, but can range from headache, gastric upset, skin rash and rarely, hiccups.

Poison Gooseberry Is An Antidotal Herb For Underactive Thyroid

Poison Gooseberry is a herb with multiple common names and health benefits too. Coming from the Nightshade family, Withania Somnifera, also referred to as Indian ginseng or Winter cherry has been extensively relied on for enhancing overall health and dwindling energy level. One of the most troublesome symptoms of hypothyroidism is depletion of physical energy. This is where the adaptogenic herb turns out to be helpful.

Being rich in antioxidants and iron content, poison gooseberry strengthens the immune system of hypothyroid patients and help patients to combat stress and anxiety, the contributory factors that mess with the level of thyroid hormones.

Dose Evaluation Is A Must

It is easy to use the ancient herb, either in the form of liquid tinctures, capsules or tea prepared from the dried root. Your medical practitioner is the best person to calculate your dose requirement as excess intake of the herb can trigger a hyper metabolic state of Thyrotoxicosis.

Coleus Forskohlii

Research proves that aside from treating medical problems related to cardiovascular and respiratory system, Coleus forskohlii helps in increasing the production and secretion of thyroid hormones.Derived from the root portion of a plant known by the name of Plectranthus barbatus, the herb contains a chemical called Forsholin which stimulates a series of chemical reactions involving cAMP, causing energy release from the fat cells. Its action is similar to ephedrine but fortunately, the side effects associated with ephedrine are bypassed while using this particular medicinal herb.

To improve the sluggish working of the thyroid gland as well as torch fat (fat increases in a hypothyroid state), a dose of 50-100 mg of Coleus, taken two to three times in a day is enough. Those having medications such as warfarin or aspirin (anticoagulants) must speak to their physician before including the herb in their treatment regime. As it has a tendency to reduce blood pressure, people on anti-hypertensive drugs must stay away from this herb.

Bayberry

The leading cause behind a hypothyroid gland is an autoimmune disease known as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. To treat Hashimoto’s disease effectively, regular supplementation of Bayberry brings promising results.Prepare a cup of bayberry tea by steeping boiling water and one teaspoon of bayberry root powder for ten minutes. One can drink this warm herbal preparation two to three times in a day.

Flaxseed

Flaxseed is a natural herb packed with constituents and compounds, especially essential fatty acids. This herb supplies the body with omega 3 fatty acids. An intake of 1000 to 1500 mg is strongly recommended for promotion of lagging hormone production. Like the other herbs, even the use of flaxseed necessitates prior consultation.

Flaxseed is a natural laxative, thus people may experience episodes of diarrhoea or digestion related side effects. Always remember to cook flaxseed as the uncooked version contains light amount of Cyanogen, which impairs the, ability of the gland to pick up iodine.

Gentian Gives A Boost To Sluggish Thyroid

This herbal plant is a medicinal adjunct which activates the normal production of thyroid hormones and influences the rate of metabolism too. The tincture extract, prepared from the root of Gentian plant should be take on a regular basis for three months at a stretch. Patients with a history of gastric or duodenal ulcer should not opt for this herbal supplement.