A noticeable increase was found in the T4 level from baseline by 9. In the last article selected, Mentha x Piperita L. showed no significant difference in fatigue scores between intervention and control groups at the midpoint day 7 , while fatigue scores improved in the intervention group in all subscales compared to the control group on day Conclusion: Some herbal remedies, including Nigella sativa L.

Keywords: Hypothyroidism; botany; herbal medicine; medicinal plant; phytotherapy; traditional medicine. Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub benthamscience.

Abstract Background: Hypothyroidism is a common endocrine disease in the world that causes morbidity and mortality due to its association with metabolic diseases, especially in old age, and longterm treatment with levothyroxine causes many side effects for patients.

Publication types Systematic Review. Substances Plant Extracts Thyrotropin Cholesterol. Some signs of cancer potentially developing in the gland can include:. There are many factors that can contribute to thyroid problems, ranging from genetics to poor lifestyle habits — like skipping sleep, exercising too much or too little, and eating too many inflammatory foods.

In the U. It takes place due to an autoimmune response the body attacking its own tissue with T and B cells , interfering with normal production of hormones. It affects women seven to 10 times more often than men due to chromosomal susceptibilities.

However, on a worldwide level, an iodine deficiency in the diet is the No. The prevalence of hyperthyroidism in the U.

is approximately 1. The No. The underlying cause is excess production of thyroid hormone. Several nutrients, such as iodine and selenium, play an important yet often overlooked role in regard to the thyroid functioning properly.

Research shows that some of the most significant known risk factors for thyroid problems include:. Either too much or too little iodine can disrupt thyroid function.

The same can happen when someone lacks B vitamins, zinc and other minerals, including electrolytes. Additionally, problems absorbing and converting nutrients from the diet can make matters worse. Leaky gut syndrome also referred to as intestinal permeability is one contributing cause to symptoms of thyroid problems since it raises inflammation levels and interferes with certain metabolic processes.

Emotional stress , anxiety, fatigue and depression can interfere with normal adrenal functioning and wear down the entire immune system and endocrine system.

Lack of sleep and overexercising are other causes of stress. Some thyroid symptoms can be related to leaky gut syndrome, which triggers inflammation. This impairs normal nutrient absorption, can lead to autoimmune reactions, can reduce oxygen reaching the organs and causes less blood flow through the gastrointestinal tract.

It may also interfere with enzyme production, which makes it harder to digest certain things especially grains, dairy and fats. A lack of exercise and a sedentary lifestyle may contribute to overall poor health and hormonal imbalances.

Reactions to some immunosuppressive medications can also impact the thyroid and adrenals. So can toxicity due to chemical exposure or contact with other environmental pollutants. Other potential causes include genetic factors research shows that thyroid problems tend to run in families , pregnancy, or in the case of infants or young children, a genetic pituitary disorder, defective thyroid or lack of the gland entirely.

Because the two main types of thyroid problems, hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, are basically the opposite problems, treatment for each condition is very different.

In one case we want more of the thyroid hormones, and in the other case the sufferer needs less of that same hormone. Many but not all patients with hypothyroid diseases are deficient in iodine — most cases of hypothyroidism worldwide are from a lack of iodine — therefore increasing your iodine intake can likely help.

Iodine is a key mineral for helping convert and release thyroid hormone, yet iodine-rich foods like edible seaweed such as kombu and wakame are limited in the typical Western diet. Other than consuming sea veggies like dulse or kelp, you can obtain iodine from foods like raw dairy, certain wild-caught fish, like tuna, and some fermented grains.

You might also benefit from iodine supplements in low doses usually best when being monitored for side effects. Selenium helps balance levels of T4 hormones, so try to eat plenty foods high in selenium like Brazil nuts, spinach, yellowfin tuna, halibut, canned sardines, grass-fed beef, turkey and beef liver.

Those with celiac disease or autoimmune disorders may be most deficient in selenium, so a supplement might be necessary in these cases. Similarly, the mineral zinc and also B vitamins especially vitamin B12 are needed for endocrine health and may be missing in your diet, especially if you rarely consume animal foods.

The best sources are usually animal proteins beef, turkey, eggs, etc. This is one reason why people with thyroid problems often experience hormonal changes related to lowered libido, fertility problems, mood swings and so on.

Employ multiple methods to handle stress like utilizing these natural stress relievers :. Ingesting chemical toxins — from things like medications, hormonal birth control or other hormone replacements , and commercial beauty or cleaning products — can contribute to inflammatory reactions.

Use natural products at home on your body, decrease intake of any unnecessary medications, clean up your diet and quit smoking. Hormone conditions can also possibly be caused from heavy metal toxicity like mercury.

Heavy metals from amalgam fillings have an affinity for the thyroid and can disrupt your hormone balance and thyroid function.

Probiotics are also very beneficial for dealing with poor gut health and improving immunity. Taking adaptogenic herbs can also help your body battle the negative effects of stress by supporting the adrenals and balancing hormones. These include ashwagandha, tulsi, ginseng, licorice root and rhodiola.

And then, last but not least are proteolytic enzymes. Taking proteolytic enzymes like bromelain can benefit thyroid health by reducing inflammation of the thyroid. Once you confirm you have a thyroid disorder, such as by having a blood test done, you can begin to explore your treatment options.

If you and your doctor determine a lack of iodine could be the entire cause or a contributing factor to your hypothyroidism, consider adding kelp to your diet.

However, once again, this herb has not been shown to improve thyroid function directly. Glycyrrhiza glabra, better known as licorice , is an all-around great herb.

While not specifically for thyroid health, it is indicated for improving cortisol levels. Often, when the thyroid is stressed it can impact other endocrine systems like the adrenal glands, which produce cortisol.

If you are feeling persistent fatigue after hypothyroid treatment, this can be due to struggling adrenals. Similarly to Centella, licorice may have some cognitive enhancing effects. Nigella Sativa, or black cumin , is used in autoimmune conditions like Hashimotos.

It can help decrease elevated antibody levels seen on labs. It has also been reported to help decrease TSH levels and raise T3 levels, in addition to helping to reduce weight gain often seen in hypothyroid patients. Remember that just because something is natural does not necessarily make it safe!

ALWAYS ask your doctor before starting anything new. While all of these herbs have traditionally been used in hypothyroid, they are typically not enough. Serious long-term effects can result from attempting to treat your hypothyroid condition with herbals alone. Negative effects from not properly treating hypoythroid conditions include elevations in cholesterol and lipids, 3 , 6 decreased fertility, 7 and poor gastrointestinal health.

Elevations in TSH can promote unwanted growth of the thyroid gland which is exceedingly important to take into consideration for patients with a history of nodules or thyroid cancer. For more info on how to test your thyroid please check out this article about which labs should be run.

It is also critical to find the root cause of your hypothyroid before starting any natural options. Depending on the cause of your sluggish thyroid, herbal products may not be indicated and could cause more harm. Talking with your doctor before starting natural options is important.

Well this is when medications are indicated and imperative. There are various medication options to treat hypothyroidism, both synthetic and natural. Talking with your doctor to find the right type and dose of medication can help you feel better as well as mitigate complications from untreated hypothyroidism.

Traditionally used herbs for hypothyroid are not sufficient to treat hypothyroidism on their own. They are a great option to be used in conjunction with medications and dietary changes. It can help make you feel better by relieving symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, and stress, and in addition decrease elevated thyroid antibodies seen in autoimmune hypothyroid conditions.

Before deciding on a treatment option or change to your treatment plan, please speak to your doctor. Naturopathic doctors have the knowledge to customize herbal prescriptions that are tailored to your unique health concerns and can safely be used with many medications.

You might also benefit from iodine supplements in low doses usually best when being monitored for side effects. Selenium helps balance levels of T4 hormones, so try to eat plenty foods high in selenium like Brazil nuts, spinach, yellowfin tuna, halibut, canned sardines, grass-fed beef, turkey and beef liver.

Those with celiac disease or autoimmune disorders may be most deficient in selenium, so a supplement might be necessary in these cases. Similarly, the mineral zinc and also B vitamins especially vitamin B12 are needed for endocrine health and may be missing in your diet, especially if you rarely consume animal foods.

The best sources are usually animal proteins beef, turkey, eggs, etc. This is one reason why people with thyroid problems often experience hormonal changes related to lowered libido, fertility problems, mood swings and so on. Employ multiple methods to handle stress like utilizing these natural stress relievers :.

Ingesting chemical toxins — from things like medications, hormonal birth control or other hormone replacements , and commercial beauty or cleaning products — can contribute to inflammatory reactions.

Use natural products at home on your body, decrease intake of any unnecessary medications, clean up your diet and quit smoking. Hormone conditions can also possibly be caused from heavy metal toxicity like mercury. Heavy metals from amalgam fillings have an affinity for the thyroid and can disrupt your hormone balance and thyroid function.

Probiotics are also very beneficial for dealing with poor gut health and improving immunity. Taking adaptogenic herbs can also help your body battle the negative effects of stress by supporting the adrenals and balancing hormones. These include ashwagandha, tulsi, ginseng, licorice root and rhodiola.

And then, last but not least are proteolytic enzymes. Taking proteolytic enzymes like bromelain can benefit thyroid health by reducing inflammation of the thyroid. Once you confirm you have a thyroid disorder, such as by having a blood test done, you can begin to explore your treatment options.

If you and your doctor determine a lack of iodine could be the entire cause or a contributing factor to your hypothyroidism, consider adding kelp to your diet. Also consider visiting a health care provider if you have a family history of thyroid cancer and start to notice symptoms indicating a change in hormone production.

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David O Kennedy 1, Wendy Little, Andrew B Scholey, "Attenuation of laboratory-induced stress in humans after acute administration of Melissa officinalis Lemon Balm ", Clinical Trial Psychosom Med. Ali Zarei 1, Saeed Changizi-Ashtiyani 2, Soheila Taheri 3, Nasser Hosseini 4, "A Brief Overview of the Effects of Melissa officinalis L.

Extract on the Function of Various Body Organs", Zahedan Journal of Research in Medical Sciences: Vol. html AREF26 15 html AREF26 Ali Zarei, Saeed Changizi-Ashtiyani, R.

Abolfazl Shakeri 1, Amirhossein Sahebkar 2, Behjat Javadi 3, "Melissa officinalis L. Shiqi Huang 1, Dongdong Zhang 1, Yuze Li 1, Hao Fan 1, Yuanyuan Liu 1, Wenli Huang 1, Chong Deng 1, Wei Wang 1, Xiaomei Song 1, "Schisandra sphenanthera: A Comprehensive Review of its Botany, Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, and Clinical Applications", Review Am J Chin Med.

Epub Sep Ni Cheng 1, Naiyan Ren, Hui Gao, Xingsheng Lei, Jianbin Zheng, Wei Cao, "Antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects of Schisandra chinensis pollen extract on CCl4-induced acute liver damage in mice", Food Chem Toxicol. Epub Nov Michal Rybnikář, Karel Šmejkal, Milan Žemlička, "Schisandra chinensis and its phytotherapeutical applications", Review Ceska Slov Farm.

Alexander Panossian 1, Georg Wikman, "Pharmacology of Schisandra chinensis Bail. Epub Apr Carolyn M. Gallagherab, Jaymie R. Melikerbc, "Mercury and thyroid autoantibodies in U. women, NHANES —", Environment International Volume 40, April , Pages Shahad Imad, "Comparative Study between a Combination of Plants Extracts and Drugs on Thyroid Hormones and Lipid Profile in Experimental Animals", ResearchGate Home Shahad Imad.

Continue Reading. education lifestyle research your-natural-self. Picture your health as a stone castle. Its strength and stability rely on the precise size and shape of each stone, laid meticulously on top of each other. A missing or poorly s When you think of Licorice, you may envision jet-black twists, a potent sweetness, and a flavor that inspires passionate devotion or profound dislike.

While its taste is familia people-farm people-main research the-farm. February 11 is the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. We wanted to take a moment to celebrate the women of Gaia Herbs. Raw, unfiltered Apple Cider Vinegar ACV has been a wellness staple in kitchen and bathroom cabinets for centuries.

The applecidervinegarch education products. Confused about whether you really need a multivitamin to be healthy? From its unique appearance to its history, it has been a captivating part of culinary and medicinal tra Many people are curious about using plants and herbs to support libido and create a romantic atmosphere but are unsure which herbs really work.

REF Word has also gotten out about the role of thyroid hormones in fertility, pregnancy and birth outcomes, and postpartum recovery, REF REF which has inspired many individuals and couples to take proactive steps to support thyroid health.

If you have a thyroid issue or suspect you may have a problem, your first stop should be to a doctor or healthcare practitioner who specializes in thyroid issues.

From there, you can discuss options with your doctor, which may include medication for some people , diet and lifestyle changes, and thyroid support supplements. Since thyroid conditions all require specific types of treatment, working with a qualified professional is essential to ensure you get the support you need.

Here are five evidence-based herbs that may help s upport thyroid health as part of an integrative approach. Herbs are generally safe, affordable, widely available, nourishing, and can be effective if used properly.

Ashwagandha is used extensively in Ayurveda, the traditional wellness practice of India for stress, energy, endurance, hormonal health, sleep, and thyroid health. Based on its long history of successful use, modern research has begun investigating how Ashwagandha may support the thyroid.

One double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study published in the Journal of Complementary and Alternative Medicine showed that taking mg of Ashwagandha daily led to significant improvements in thyroid hormone levels in 50 women ages 18 to High cortisol levels, excreted by the adrenal glands, can negatively impact the entire endocrine system via the HPA Hypothalamus Pituitary Adrenal Axis.

The endocrine system is comprised of several glands that control various aspects of hormonal function, including the thyroid, hypothalamus, pituitary, and adrenals. Thus, when the HPA axis becomes dysfunctional, it can negatively affect the thyroid, sleep cycle, stress response, energy, sexual function, and other aspects of health.

This explains why persistent stress has been linked to imbalances in thyroid hormones. REF REF Ashwagandha has also been shown effective for improving sleep, REF which is directly related to thyroid health. Most of us are familiar with Ginger as a culinary ingredient or for occasional digestive upset or nausea.

However, few herbs could rival the humble Ginger rhizome for its diverse range of proven health benefits. One of these unexpected benefits is that Ginger has been shown to effectively support thyroid function.

It also led to a significant decrease in body weight, body mass index, waist circumference, serum TSH, fasting blood sugar, triglyceride, and total cholesterol levels compared to the placebo.

However, the plant compounds in Ginger, such as polyphenols and antioxidants, have been shown in previous studies to support various factors related to thyroid symptoms, including: REF Based on the results of this study, there will likely be more research into the direct connection between Ginger and thyroid health.

Regardless, it appears Ginger may be a viable drug-free option to discuss with your doctor for easing thyroid symptoms. Lemon Balm , also known as Melissa officinalis, is a signature herb in many American gardens, teas, tinctures, spirits, and supplements.

Its natural grassy lemon flavor makes it easy to take and pairs nicely with other teas and herbs. Lemon Balm may also benefit those with thyroid concerns by helping support a healthy stress response , reducing anxiety, promoting healthy sleep , mood, and focus, and supporting immunity and cognitive health.

Schisandra or Schisandra Berry is a popular adaptogenic herb used in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Adaptogens are a class of herbs that promote resilience, strength, and well-being during times of stress.

Schisandra berries are often used in traditional formulas to support thyroid health because of their beneficial effects on the adrenals, which, as previously discussed, are intertwined with thyroid function.

Schisandra Berries have also been shown effective in reducing heavy metal toxicity, REF which is associated with a greater risk of thyroid autoimmunity mercury specifically. However, Schisandra is used in traditional systems of wellness for thyroid health, energy, and stress relief.

Iodine has been shown to help support thyroid function, including T4, T3, and TSH levels. However, some thyroid conditions do not respond well to additional dietary iodine. Always check with your doctor before increasing your iodine consumption.

If your healthcare team is unfamiliar with these herbs, share the research in this article with them. With more and more people taking herbs and supplements, most providers are interested in the research behind traditional herbs.

We also discuss more supplements that can help thyroid health on the blog, including Cordyceps. By Kristen Boye BS, Natural Health. Kristen Boye Kristen Boye is a natural health expert, writer, copywriter, and editor. A series of lab tests is the best way to determine what may be going on with your thyroid.

Ashwagandha Ashwagandha is used extensively in Ayurveda, the traditional wellness practice of India for stress, energy, endurance, hormonal health, sleep, and thyroid health. REF This explains why persistent stress has been linked to imbalances in thyroid hormones.

REF REF Ashwagandha has also been shown effective for improving sleep, REF which is directly related to thyroid health. Ginger Most of us are familiar with Ginger as a culinary ingredient or for occasional digestive upset or nausea.

Lemon Balm Lemon Balm , also known as Melissa officinalis, is a signature herb in many American gardens, teas, tinctures, spirits, and supplements. Schisandra Schisandra or Schisandra Berry is a popular adaptogenic herb used in Traditional Chinese Medicine. The immune system: This can become compromised due to autoimmune thyroid conditions.

REF The central nervous system: This is involved in stress response and sleep. REF Schisandra Berries have also been shown effective in reducing heavy metal toxicity, REF which is associated with a greater risk of thyroid autoimmunity mercury specifically.

One of these nutrients is iodine, which is often associated with various thyroid issues. They will best understand your overall thyroid function and can make custom recommendations. Sima Nazarpour 1, Fahimeh Ramezani Tehrani 2, Masoumeh Simbar 1, Fereidoun Azizi 3, "Thyroid dysfunction and pregnancy outcomes", Review Iran J Reprod Med.

Ashok Kumar Sharma 1, Indraneel Basu 1, Siddarth Singh 1, "Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha Root Extract in Subclinical Hypothyroid Patients: A Double-Blind, Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial", Randomized Controlled Trial J Altern Complement Med.

Iodine has a very narrow therapeutic index, meaning it has a very narrow window between an effective dose and one which produces adverse effects. Put simply, too much, or too little iodine can be harmful. Please consult with a knowledgeable practitioner before you start taking Bladderwrack to determine if it is actually indicated in your case.

Centella asiatica, or Gotu kola , is a great adaptogenic herb that supports brain health, nerves, and mood. Centella in herbal formula can help support cognitive function. However, on its own, this herbal is not sufficient to treat hypothyroidism.

Ganoderma lucidum, a mushroom , is an adaptogenic herb that is commonly seen in hypothyroid formulas. It improves cardiovascular health, helping reduce cholesterol which is commonly elevated in poorly controlled hypothyroidism.

Cordyceps sinensis, a fungus , is also often found in hypothyroid formulas. It is a wonderful adaptogenic herbal choice for patients that are extremely fatigued.

With the additional bonus that it can help with insulin sensitivity and cardiovascular health. However, once again, this herb has not been shown to improve thyroid function directly. Glycyrrhiza glabra, better known as licorice , is an all-around great herb. While not specifically for thyroid health, it is indicated for improving cortisol levels.

Often, when the thyroid is stressed it can impact other endocrine systems like the adrenal glands, which produce cortisol.

If you are feeling persistent fatigue after hypothyroid treatment, this can be due to struggling adrenals. Similarly to Centella, licorice may have some cognitive enhancing effects.

Nigella Sativa, or black cumin , is used in autoimmune conditions like Hashimotos. It can help decrease elevated antibody levels seen on labs.

It has also been reported to help decrease TSH levels and raise T3 levels, in addition to helping to reduce weight gain often seen in hypothyroid patients. Remember that just because something is natural does not necessarily make it safe! ALWAYS ask your doctor before starting anything new.

While all of these herbs have traditionally been used in hypothyroid, they are typically not enough. Serious long-term effects can result from attempting to treat your hypothyroid condition with herbals alone. Negative effects from not properly treating hypoythroid conditions include elevations in cholesterol and lipids, 3 , 6 decreased fertility, 7 and poor gastrointestinal health.

Elevations in TSH can promote unwanted growth of the thyroid gland which is exceedingly important to take into consideration for patients with a history of nodules or thyroid cancer. For more info on how to test your thyroid please check out this article about which labs should be run.

It is also critical to find the root cause of your hypothyroid before starting any natural options. Depending on the cause of your sluggish thyroid, herbal products may not be indicated and could cause more harm. Talking with your doctor before starting natural options is important. Well this is when medications are indicated and imperative.

There are various medication options to treat hypothyroidism, both synthetic and natural. Talking with your doctor to find the right type and dose of medication can help you feel better as well as mitigate complications from untreated hypothyroidism.

Traditionally used herbs for hypothyroid are not sufficient to treat hypothyroidism on their own. They are a great option to be used in conjunction with medications and dietary changes. It can help make you feel better by relieving symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, and stress, and in addition decrease elevated thyroid antibodies seen in autoimmune hypothyroid conditions.

Before deciding on a treatment option or change to your treatment plan, please speak to your doctor. Naturopathic doctors have the knowledge to customize herbal prescriptions that are tailored to your unique health concerns and can safely be used with many medications.

Naturopathic doctors also can help with choosing a thyroid medication that fits your unique goals and situation. If you have been diagnosed with hypothyroidism or Hashimotos, or think you may have hypothyroid I am here to answer questions and help get you back to feeling well again.