Hypothyroidism is a potentially serious thyroid problem that results from an underactive thyroid gland. An underactive thyroid releases too little thyroid hormones needed for basic functions.
Hypothyroidism is a fairly common condition affecting millions of people.
The condition ranges from mild and hardly noticeable to severe and life threatening ( a condition termed myxedema). Do simply self-medicate with herbal remedies for hypothyroidism without qualified medical help and get attention as soon as you suspect you may be suffering from condition.
Symptoms of hypothyroidism
Because the symptoms may be varied and difficult to define, often mimicking other conditions, many people with an underactive thyroid gland may be completely unaware of the problem.
In infants & children, hypothyroidism can cause mental & physical retardation.
Symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, slow heart rate, weight gain, muscle weakness, depression, problems thinking, low sex drive, hair loss & heavy menstrual periods.
What Causes Hypothyroidism?
There are several possible causes of Hypothyroidism.
* Hashimoto’s disease is an auto-immune disease which causes inflammation of the thyroid gland leading to underproduction of thyroid hormone.
* Thyroid gland inflammation (thyroiditis) is an inflammation of the thyroid gland causing too little production of thyroid hormone.
* Thyroid surgery where all or a portion of your thyroid is removed can reduce hormone production.
* Iodine deficiency can also lead to underactive thyroid production.
* Radiation therapy used to treat cancers of the head and neck can reduce hormone production.
* Medications such as lithium, used for psychiatric disorders, can cause hypothyroidism.
Diagnosing hypothyroidism
A blood test is needed to make a definitive diagnosis of hypothyroidism. However, if you suspect hypothyroidism, you might start by conducting the following self test for underactive thyroid.
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Quick self test for hypothyroidism
Take your temperature as soon as you wake up in the morning, before getting out of bed. Keep thermometer under your armpit for 15 minutes while lying very still. Do this for 3 - 5 consecutive days.
Figure out your average temperature by adding the readings and dividing by the number of readings. If the average temperature is under 97.2 degrees, you may have hypothyroidism.
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Best herbs for hypothyroidism
Ashwagandha root can be helpful herbal thyroid remedy. Take 500 -1,000 mg daily.
Bitters is also one of the better combination of herbs for hypothyroidism as they generally stimulate the body & help increase hormone production. The more bitter, the better. Take ½ tsp of tincture, 2 - 3x daily.
Fucus vesiculosis known as Bladderwrack or kelp, is a sea weed that can help balance thyroid functioning. Studies have supported its use in thyroid health. Take ¼ tsp tincture 2 - 3x daily.
Milk thistle might be one of the more surprising herbal remedies for hypothyroidism but it is thought to relieve symptoms of underactive thyroid. Take 200 - 300 mg daily.
Avena sativa (Green Oats) is a general tonic traditionally used in folk medicine as well as in modern herbalism & so is a useful herbal thyroid remedy. Avena sativa is said to help alleviate common nervous irritability that can sometimes ruin your day.
Myrrh stimulated thyroid production nad so is another helpful adjunct to treatment. Take 20 - 60 mg daily or ¼ tsp of tincture 2 - 3x daily.
Coleus forskohlii (Makandi) is a rare Ayurvedic (Indian) herbal thryroid remedy. Clinical studies have shown that it may help to support thyroid hormone secretion.
Sage is one of the more delicious herbs for hypothyroidism as it can provide useful support for thyroid disorders. Use 40 - 60 mg daily. Oh, and use liberally to taste in foods & as a tea.
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