Herbs for an Overactive Thyroid

Looking for herbs for an overactive thyroid? For hyperthyroidism the herbs most commonly used are Bugleweed (Lycopus virginiana) combined with Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis). Lemon balm makes a lovely tasting tea. Both of these herbs, as well as Club Moss (Lithospermum officinale) inhibit thyroid-stimulating hormone binding.

Motherwort helps to relieve heart palpitations and anxiety, hawthorn helps to regulate blood pressure and strengthens the heart. Lemon balm also helps to relieve anxiety, as does Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora) which is sometimes combined with Bugleweed in hyperthyroid prescriptions.

Herbs For Hyperthyroidism

A typical herbal blend for hyperthyroid would be

• Bugleweed (Lycopus virginiana) 4 parts
• Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) 2 parts
• Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca) 2 parts
• Hawthorn (Crataegus spp) 1 part

A variation on this is

• Bugleweed (Lycopus virginiana.) 1 part
• Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) 1 part
• Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca) 1 part
• Nettle (Urtica dioica) 1 part

Herbs Dosage for Overactive Thyroid

For proper application of recommended herbs for overactive thyroid, a typical dose would be 5 ml of either blend to be taken 3 times a day.

Drinks and herbs with a high caffeine content should be avoided such as cola, ephedra, coffee. High sources of iodine - ocean fish, seaweeds, sea vegetables and iodised salt - should be minimised. However fish and seaweed should not be eliminated completely as the body still needs small amounts to function healthily. 

You should try to eat more goitrogens. Goitrogens are mostly inactivated by cooking so raw or lightly steamed is preferred and they are mainly found in leafy greens - kale, cabbage, broccoli, Brussels sprouts - and soy. They can also be found in turnips, mustard, cassava root, peanuts, pine nuts and millet. These should form part of a treatment plan to reduce thyroid hormone levels.

We would strongly recommend a visit to a professional medical herbalist to look at the root causes and a comprehensive treatment plan.

Herbs for an Overactive Thyroid FAQs

1. What are the best herbs for managing an overactive thyroid?
   Looking for the best herbs for managing overactive thyroid? Bugleweed (Lycopus virginiana), Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis), Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca), Hawthorn (Crataegus spp), and Club Moss (Lithospermum officinale) are some of the recommended herbs as they may inhibit thyroid stimulating hormone. This may help relieve symptoms such as anxiety and heart palpitations.
2. How do herbs like Bugleweed and Lemon Balm help with hyperthyroidism?
   Both herbs are known to inhibit the binding of thyroid-stimulating hormone Bugleweed and Lemon Balm, potentially reducing thyroid activity. Lemon Balm may also help to calm anxiety.
3. What typical herbal blend for hyperthyroidism can I use?
   A common blend for hyperthyroid management includes Bugleweed (4 parts), Lemon Balm (2 parts), Motherwort (2 parts), and Hawthorn (1 part). You can also use equal parts of Bugleweed, Lemon Balm, Motherwort, and Nettle (Urtica dioica). Usual dosage would be 5ml of the blend taken 3 times a day. Consult with a herbalist for the best advice before incorporating any herbs into your routine.
4. Which foods and drinks should I avoid with an overactive thyroid?
   Avoid caffeine-rich drinks such as cola, coffee, and herbs like ephedra. You should also reduce the intake of of foods high in iodine such as ocean fish, seaweeds or iodised salt.