Thyroid disease affects millions of Americans with new cases on the rise annually. The most common condition is hypothyroidism, in which the thyroid gland in under-active and not producing enough hormones. When seeking traditional medical treatment, an endocrinologist is the type of physician a thyroid sufferer goes to. However, with traditional medicine under increasing scrutiny, some are finding alternative ways to cure their thyroid symptoms.
Significance
Alternative forms of treatment for medical conditions are becoming more mainstream. Such treatment comes in the form of natural plants. Some thyroid sufferers are turning to herbs help cure their symptoms. There are specific types of herbs that can be used, depending on whether the thyroid is over-active or under-active. Thus, it is vital that one is educated on what type of thyroid condition they have before using herbs. The following herbs can be found in health food stores.
Herbs for Hypothyroidism
There are several herbs that can be used for hypothyroidism. Usage of these herbs is supposed to stimulate the thyroid by aiding it in producing more hormones. Bladderwack, also known as kelp, contains iodine for maximum thyroid hormone stimulation. A quarter of a teaspoon of bladderwack can be taken up to three times a day. Ashwagandha root can be taken once daily, in 1,000 mg dosages. Sage is amongst one of the most popular herbs and can be taken in 60 mg dosages daily, by adding it to tea or food. Milk thistle can be taken daily in 300 mg dosages. Makandi is the most rare form herb for hypothyroidism and was used by Native American medicine men to help cure under-active thyroids.
Herbs for Hyperthyroidism
Lemon balm is a common type of herb to treat hyperthyroidism. It can be used to help treat Graves disease, which is an immune disorder that leads to hyperthyroidism. The best way to take lemon balm is by an extract added to tea that can be consumed for an unlimited amount of times a day. The most popular type of herb used to treat the early stages of hyperthyroidism is bugleweed. It can be combined with lemon balm in tea for maximum effect. Motherwort is the most traditional herb, and was used in ancient times by the Romans and the Greeks to help alleviate depression and heart palpitations. These symptoms are common amongst those with hyperthyroidism.
Effects
The above herbs need to be taken as directed. Ideally, the herbs will naturally restore the thyroid gland back to its normal state, whether it is by suppressing hormones of any over-active thyroid or by increasing hormones for an under-active one.
Warning
According to Natural-Hormone-Health.com, herbs for thyroid treatment should not be taken while one is taking hormone pills, such as birth control and fertility drugs. Adverse side effects may occur, unless otherwise recommended by a doctor. Also, while taking undergoing any treatment for a thyroid condition, one must take periodic blood tests to monitor thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels to ensure that treatment is working properly. Consult a professional before undergoing any treatment.
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