What Herbs Are Good For Hypothyroidism?

An estimate says that about 10 million US citizens supposedly have hypothyroidism and about 10% of women may have this condition with some degree. Despite this grave condition, one can ease the symptoms with herbs for hypothyroidism and other medicines. Before knowing the treatment options for it here is the detailed view of hypothyroidism.

What Is Hypothyroidism?

It happens when the thyroid present in the body does not produce sufficient thyroid hormones. These hormones help the body regulate and make use of energy.

Thyroid provides energy to almost every organ in the body and controls functions such as how the heartbeats and how the digestive system functions. Without the correct amount of this hormone, the body’s natural functions slow down.

Also known as underactive thyroid it affects women more than men and is common in people aged 60 and above but can start at any age.

Causes Of Hypothyroidism

An autoimmune disease is the most frequent cause and it is a condition wherein the antibodies instead of attacking intruders attack the body’s own cells and cause harm such as this condition. One such autoimmune disease is Hashimoto’s disease. It attacks the thyroid gland and leads to chronic thyroid inflammation which in turn lowers the efficacy of thyroid function.

The other cause could be the already existing inflammation of the thyroid gland which makes a large portion of thyroid cells dead or damaged leading to underproductive thyroid.

The other causes include "medical treatments" which may consist of total removal of the gland leading to the lessened function of it. In addition to these at times, even a normal thyroid gland cannot make sufficient hormone due to pituitary gland issues.

Symptoms Of Hypothyroidism

The signs and symptoms of it differ from person to person. Severity can also define the symptoms. The most common signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism include;

• Depression
• Fatigue
• Constipation
• Dry skin
• Feeling cold
• Muscle weakness
• Slow heart rate
• Less sweating
• Weight gain
• Increased blood cholesterol
• Stiffness and pains in the joints
• Dry and thinning of hair
• Decreased memory
• Menstrual changes
• Fertility issues
• Muscle aches, tenderness, and stiffness
• Bulgy and sensitive face
• Hoarseness
• Decreased libido
• Irritability

The Normal Range Of Thyroid

0.4 to 4.0 milli-international units per liter is the usual range of TSH levels. If you’re on treatment for thyroid malfunction then 0.5 to 3.0 milli-international units per liter is the normal range.

Value over the normal range generally signals thyroid underactive which is hypothyroidism.

A value lower than the normal range indicates overactive thyroid which is hyperthyroidism and based on the test results a doctor may again conduct extra tests.

Herbs For Hypothyroidism

Apart from medicines, natural remedies for hypothyroidism include herbs that are safe, effective, and with no side effects. Here are a few herbs that you can take as part of your hypothyroidism diet and cure.

1. Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha balances hormones by soothing the body’s response to stress. When stress has controlled the functioning of the thyroid may reach normalcy.

How To Use

You can use it as powder, root, liquid, or tablet form but the base rule is you should take only 600 mg of it daily.

2. Turmeric

Turmeric is called the “holy powder” and “spice of life” in India it is rich in antioxidants and lowers inflammation caused by hypothyroidism.

How To Use

Usually, a pinch of turmeric is more than enough. Add it to salads or dishes or you can even add it to the milk and drink before you go to bed

3. Eleuthero

Eleuthero also called Siberian ginseng it balances the hormones in the body.

How To Use

You can directly take 1 to 2 teaspoons daily.

4. Licorice

Licorice aids in safeguarding thyroid from oxidative damage.

How To Use

Using it in the liquid form along with Eleuthero is good. However, don't use it for more than 4-6 weeks. Better consult your doctor.

5. Ginger

Same as turmeric ginger is rich in anti-inflammatory properties. It stabilizes the gland and lowers the risks of overactive (Grave’s disease) and underactive (Hashimoto’s) thyroid conditions.

How To Use

It can be added as a dressing or can be chewed raw but it shouldn’t be taken more than a candy size.

6. Guggul

It has a plant sterol that aids in balancing hormones, stimulating thyroid functions, and promoting the conversion of T4 to T3. It also improves iodine uptake of the thyroid and increases its function.

How To Use

It shouldn’t be taken more than 150 mg per day.

Conclusion

These herbs for hypothyroidism have been used for ages. Although the efficacy differs from person to person these herbs are effective. Speak to your physician and get the correct advice on these.