Hypothyroidism: herbs to take and herbs to avoid
Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce as much hormone as it should. This causes metabolic activities to decrease. Undiagnosed hypothyroidism can make you feel run down, depressed, cold, or tired. It can slow your heart rate, make your hair dry and brittle, cause itchy skin, muscle cramps, infertility, or menstrual disorders.
Extreme hypothyroidism can cause goiter (a lump in the neck that is actually a swollen thyroid gland), facial swelling also known as myxedema, yellow skin, weight gain, and mental decline. The condition is commonly treated by replacing the thyroid hormone that your body doesn’t make.
The most common treatment is to supplement thyroxine and monitor thyroid levels for life… But there are herbs that can help with the side effects of hypothyroidism, although it is not recommended that people try to go without the hormone. If left untreated, in addition to all of the symptoms listed above, hypothyroidism can cause elevated cholesterol levels and increase the rate at which plaque builds up in the arteries.
Some health food stores sell what is advertised as a natural thyroid hormone replacement. Because herbal remedies are not regulated as drugs, it is not known whether these drugs are helpful or even safe. The best bet is to consult with your doctor about the level of hormone you need to take and supplement with professionally formulated herbal products to give you a better quality of life.
Valuable Herbs for Hypothyroidism
Black Cohosh is especially good for treating menstrual problems associated with hypothyroidism. It is a popular treatment for menopausal women, treats PMS symptoms and can help with infertility.
Seaweed is sometimes given to people with hypothyroidism because iodine deficiency is linked to the disorder in some parts of the world.
St. John’s wort might be helpful if you suffer from depression, a symptom that often accompanies low thyroid function.
Cayenne supplements can help with blood circulation and strengthen the heartbeat. An improvement in circulation can alleviate the cold extremities that are common with hypothyroidism.
herbs to avoid
Some studies indicate that there are certain herbs, foods, and medications that should be avoided if you have hypothyroidism. It is thought that boosting the immune system in the early stages of the disorder can cause the thyroid to deteriorate at a faster rate, so avoiding these herbs may help you maintain the thyroid function you have.
What are these herbs?
Ginseng, astragalus, bamboo, burdock, echinacea, ginger, and lemon balm are among the herbs to avoid in the early stages of hypothyroidism. There are other herbs that are recommended to be avoided, as well as certain foods and medications. Visit herbs for hypothyroidism for more information.
