Herbal Supplements For Thyroid Problems

Hypothyroidism also known as Hashimoto's Disease is an autoimmune disease that causes gland inflammation or thyroid sluggishness. It is more common than hyperthyroidism. It is caused by the under production of thyroid hormones. Hypothyroidism is especially prominent among women. It can be treated in a variety of ways such as surgery, medication, or you can use alternative holistic methods such as herbal supplements. As with any condition, it is important that you see a physician to have your symptoms properly evaluated and treatments discussed with your doctor or holistic practitioner. Conventionally, hypothyroidism is treated with synthetic hormones.

Hypo or Hyperthyroidism can be detected quite simply with a blood test called THS or Thyroid Stimulating Hormone, which detects changes in hormone levels and a T4 which checks the main thyroid hormone. It is interesting to note that traditional blood tests are not really accurate and often mislead a patient to believe they are fine, when in fact they are not. If your test should come back normal, and you are experiencing symptoms that point to a thyroid problem, ask you family doctor about the test results and their accuracy. It will not hurt to do some research on your own.

Hyperthyroidism also known as thyrotoxicosis or Grave's Disease and is caused by the over production on thyroid hormones. It causes such symptoms such as nervousness, increased sweating, insomnia, fatigue, hair loss, weakness, hand tremors, intolerance to heat, tachycardia, bulging eyes. Goiter, is a thyroid enlargement and is easily seen as a bulge or swelling in the neck. It is often caused by an iron deficiency.

Herbal remedies are used to strengthen the thyroid.

Some of the herbs that are used for the thyroid are as follows:

*Mullein

*Flaxseed Oil

*Lobelia

*Kelp - a crucial source of iodine

*Bladder wrack or Fucus vesiculosus which can be taken as a tea or in capsule form.

*Watercress

*Irish Moss

*Bayberry Bark

*Cayenne - it produces sweating which is a beneficial way to cleanse the body of toxins

*Avena Sativa - which comes from the wild oat plant. It is used to treat depression, low libido and decreased energy levels. It is also shown to lower cholesterol. It also has a calming effect on the central nervous system.

*Coleus - stimulates thyroid to release hormones

*Royal Jelly/Bee Pollen - used to combat fatigue

*St. John's Wort - treatment of depression

*Kava Kava - treatment for depression and anxiety

The thyroid will also respond to dietary changes, such as increased intake of iron or iodine, body detoxifying and physical activity.