The thyroid gland plays an important role in our body because it contributes to many crucial functions, so it is always wise to do everything we can to keep this gland safe and healthy. Unfortunately, there are millions of people around the globe who are suffering from some of many underactive or overactive thyroid conditions.
This means that their thyroid glands are not functioning properly and affect the entire system. It is good to know that there are certain things that each of us can do on a daily basis in order to make sure that the thyroid is working properly.
Using Herbs to Improve Thyroid Conditions and Functions
If your thyroid is healthy, this usually means that all of the body systems are working properly.
The thyroid hormones help the body regulate certain functions in the body and some of the most important ones include:
- Strengthening and healing bones
- Stabilize cardiac and muscle activity
- Transportation of electrolytes
- Producing vitamin A through the conversion of beta-carotene
- Regulation of mental processes
- Cellular protein synthesis
When we talk about improving thyroid health, there is a huge number of herbs that can be used for this purpose. They need to be consumed orally in the form of tea or pills/capsules.
It is important to understand that the intake of the proper dose is crucial for getting the desired effects.
Here’s a list of herbs that can help you with your thyroid gland. Try a few of them and focus on the one that provides the best results for you.
1. Flaxseed
Flaxseed is usually associated with the promotion of digestive health and numerous studies have confirmed its positive effects. However, it was also proven that flaxseed can help with the thyroid. People suffering from an underactive thyroid can increase thyroid hormone levels by taking this herb every day. Just take one tablespoon a day and you will notice the difference.
You can use it together with some liquid or in your food.
2. Bladderwrack
Now here’s a herb with an odd name and amazing properties helpful for people who have an underactive thyroid. Bladderwrack is rich in iodine and this is a nutrient that is vital for thyroid gland health. This herb can replace iodine and boost the work of the underactive thyroid.
3. Ginger
Ginger is a herb used for upset stomach, nausea, and vomiting since ancient times, but only a small number of people know that it is good for thyroid health too. The main reason for this is the presence of potassium, zinc, and magnesium in ginger.
The thyroid needs these nutrients in order to maintain its health. It is best to use a fresh ginger herb in order to experience the benefits to the maximum. You can make ginger tea or simply eat some fresh ginger. Using some raw honey in your ginger tea will improve the taste and enhance the effects.
4. Echinacea
This interesting herb is usually used for boosting immunity and this is also one of the reasons why it is good for thyroid health. It is most useful for people with an overactive thyroid and in order to get the most of it, use the root of the herb. Many OTC solutions based on Echinacea are not very helpful because they don’t use the root. The roots can be used to make tea.
5. Nettle
Nettle works great for both categories of sufferers – those with overactive and those with an underactive thyroid. Nettle is also known as a thyroid tonic because it is rich in iodine that can fight off the deficiency of this substance. The simplest way to reap the benefits of this herb is to drink it in the form of tea.
6. Licorice
Licorice can help people who are dealing with the underactive thyroid gland. This herb can assist proper thyroid hormone regulation and it also increases the overall energy levels. In addition, licorice is rich in glycyrrhetinic acid. This acid has the ability to inhibit the growth of various forms of thyroid cancer cells.
7. Evening Primrose Oil
Evening primrose is often used by women because it can improve women’s health, but it seems that it can help people with thyroid problems too. It can be especially useful for people with an underactive thyroid and it can help them deal with the signs and symptoms of this unpleasant condition like hair loss and heavy bleeding during menstrual periods.
Many experts suggest that drinking evening primrose as a tea will help you feel most of its benefits.
8. Ashwagandha
This exotic herb will help people with different thyroid problems, but it also brings benefits to the entire system. Ashwagandha is perfect for people who feel stressed and it can also boost the immune system. This herb is known for its strong anti-inflammatory properties. Use it in a combination with bladderwrack for the best results.
9. Siberian ginseng
This is another herb that cannot be found in regular stores, but stores that sell natural food should have it. Siberian ginseng improves the condition in patients suffering from an underactive thyroid. It can also help people remove the occurrence of fatigue which is often related to this health problem. This herb is a natural energy booster. The ideal dose for thyroid sufferers is between 100 and 200 mg twice a day. Use it before breakfast and before lunch.
In case your thyroid gland is not working in the right way, you can expect to experience many different health issues. Take a closer look at the herbs we have listed and what they can do for your thyroid and create a shortlist of herbs that you find interesting. After that, consult your physician about the herbs you’ve chosen. They will help you select the one that suits you the best.
In addition, your doctor will prescribe the right dose, depending on the severity of the problem you have. They will also make sure that the herbs you are going to use are perfectly safe for you.
References: Healthline | Itm Online | American Botanical Council | Healthline