Natural treatments for hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism is a condition characterized by the excessive production of thyroid hormones, leading to symptoms such as weight loss, anxiety, and rapid heartbeat. While traditional medical treatments like radioactive iodine and medication are effective, some individuals may seek natural remedies. Proposed natural treatments include bugleweed, which may reduce thyroid hormone levels, and L-carnitine, which has shown promise in alleviating symptoms in specific cases, particularly when related to benign goiter. Other supplements like glucomannan and motherwort are also mentioned, though evidence of their effectiveness is limited. Conversely, certain herbs and supplements should be avoided, as they could exacerbate symptoms; these include ashwagandha, kelp, and caffeinated teas. It's important to note that self-treatment without medical supervision is not recommended, and dietary changes, such as reducing iodine intake, can be beneficial for those with hyperthyroidism. Before pursuing any natural treatments, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional to ensure safety and appropriateness.
Natural treatments for hyperthyroidism
DEFINITION: Treatment for excessive amounts of thyroid hormone released by the thyroid gland.
PRINCIPAL PROPOSED NATURAL TREATMENTS: None
OTHER PROPOSED NATURAL TREATMENTS: Bugleweed, L-carnitine, glucomannan, motherwort, royal jelly
HERBS AND SUPPLEMENTS TO AVOID: Ashwagandha, bladderwrack, kelp, celery extracts, stinging nettle (Urtica dioica), caffeinated green tea, Chinese or Korean ginseng, grapefruit juice
Introduction
Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland releases excessive amounts of thyroid hormone. Symptoms include weight loss, fatigue, fast heart rate, heart palpitations, intolerance to heat, insomnia, anxiety, frequent bowel movements, scant menstruation, bone thinning, hair loss, changes in the appearance of the eye (bulging or staring), and goiter (visible enlargement of the neck caused by a swollen thyroid gland).
The most common form of hyperthyroidism is Graves’ disease. In this condition, the body manufactures antibodies that have the unintended effect of stimulating the thyroid gland. (In another condition, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, the body produces antibodies that decrease thyroid output.) Additionally, benign tumors of the thyroid can secrete excessive thyroid hormone on their own (cancerous tumors seldom do). Viral infection of the thyroid (subacute thyroiditis) causes short-lived hyperthyroidism followed by a more prolonged period of hypothyroidism.
Medical treatment of hyperthyroidism is highly effective. In most cases of ongoing hyperthyroidism, radioactive iodine is used to destroy thyroid tissue. This approach is both safe and effective because almost all the iodine in the body ends up in the thyroid; the radioactive treatment, therefore, does not damage any other tissues. Other approaches to hyperthyroidism include drugs to block the effects of high thyroid hormone or to slow thyroid hormone production and, in relatively rare cases, surgery.
Proposed Natural Treatments
Physician supervision is necessary to determine why the thyroid is overactive to design a specific treatment plan. None of the treatments discussed in this section get to the root of the problem, nor have they been proven effective. Self-treatment of hyperthyroidism is not recommended.
Test-tube and animal studies suggest that the herb bugleweed may reduce thyroid hormone by decreasing levels of TSH (the hormone that stimulates the thyroid gland) and by impairing thyroid hormone synthesis. In addition, bugleweed may block the action of thyroid-stimulating antibodies found in Graves’ disease.
The supplement L-carnitine has shown promise for treating a special form of hyperthyroidism that may occur during the treatment of benign goiter. People with benign goiter often take thyroid hormone pills as treatment. Sometimes, successful treatment of this condition requires taking slightly more thyroid hormone than the body needs, resulting in symptoms of mild hyperthyroidism. A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial found evidence that the use of the supplement L-carnitine could alleviate many of these symptoms. This six-month study evaluated the effects of L-carnitine in fifty women who were taking thyroid hormone for benign goiter. The results showed that a dose of two or four grams (g) of carnitine daily protected participants’ bones and reduced other symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Carnitine is thought to affect thyroid hormone by blocking its action in cells. A preliminary trial found some evidence that when the supplement glucomannan is added to standard treatment, normal thyroid hormone levels are restored more rapidly.
For many people, the most problematic symptom of hyperthyroidism is a rapid or irregular heartbeat. In cases of temporary high thyroid hormone levels (as in the form of a viral infection), conventional treatment may involve simply protecting the heart. Germany’s Commission E (the herbal regulating body in that country) has authorized the use of the herb motherwort as part of an overall treatment plan for an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism). Motherwort is said to calm the heart; however, little meaningful evidence indicates that it is effective for the heart-related symptoms of hyperthyroidism (or any other heart-related symptoms). Royal jelly has been proposed for use in Graves’ disease, but there is little meaningful evidence that it is effective. Some animal studies have found royal jelly useful, but overall, its use in humans is mixed. Some individuals recommend using cupping—the application of warm cups to the skin where they create suction. This method of treatment has not been proven.
Individuals with hyperthyroidism often have a vitamin B12 deficiency. Using supplements or adjusting the diet to increase vitamin B12 levels only improves the symptoms that result from the deficiency. No vitamin can cure hyperthyroidism. Similarly, Graves’ disease often causes thyroid eye disease, which is associated with a selenium deficiency. Increasing selenium intake can help reduce eye bulging and other symptoms that result from a selenium deficiency.
Herbs and Supplements to Avoid
According to one study in animals, the herb ashwagandha may raise thyroid hormone levels. For this reason, it should not be used by people with hyperthyroidism. Taking excessive kelp, bladderwrack, or other forms of seaweed can cause hyperthyroidism by overloading the body with iodine. Other supplements that should be avoided include celery extracts, stinging nettle (Urtica dioica), certain caffeinated teas, ginseng, and grapefruit juice.
Additionally, a diet low in iodine is beneficial for most individuals with hyperthyroidism. The American Thyroid Association encourages individuals to avoid iodized salt, seafood, dairy, excessive poultry or beef, excessive grain products like bread and pasta, and egg yolks.
Bibliography
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