Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce much of the thyroid hormone that helps keep the normal function of the body. Hypothyroidism is also referred to as under active thyroid gland. Normally, a person afflicted with hypothyroidism is associated with slow metabolism since the thyroid hormone is typically used to run the metabolism of the body. There are different home remedies for hypothyroidism which will benefit those people suffering from it due to its natural means of alleviating symptoms.
Causes & Symptoms
Causes: Autoimmune disease, hyperthyroidism treatment, thyroid surgery, radiation therapy, certain medications, congenital disease, pituitary disorder, pregnancy, iodine deficiency, surgical removal of a part or all of thyroid gland, thyroiditis, rare disorders that break into the thyroid
Symptoms: Fatigue, weight gain or difficulty losing weight, coarse and dry hair, hair loss, weakness, dry and rough skin, paleness, hair loss, intolerance to cold, muscle cramps and muscle aches, depression, constipation, irritability, memory loss, decreased sexual drive, abnormal menstrual cycles for females, puffy face, elevated blood cholesterol level, swelling of joints, slow heart rate.
Best 10 Home Remedies For Hypothyroidism
Seeing the symptoms of hypothyroidism shows that the disease is not something to take for granted as it can result in major life changing symptoms such as depression and memory loss. Hence, it is important to know things about natural thyroid treatment.
1. Evening primrose oil
Evening primrose oil is high in GLA or the gamma linoleic acid that makes it anti-inflammatory. It also aids in the increase of thyroid hormones level in the body.
- Consume 2-8 grams of evening primrose oil daily.
Evening primrose oil is unsafe for pregnant women as it can increase the likelihood of complications. It is also contraindicated to people who have bleeding disorders, epilepsy or other seizure disorders, schizophrenia and those who are about to undergo surgery.
2. Ginger
Ginger is a great source of potassium, magnesium and zinc. It is also known for its anti-inflammatory property which is beneficial in improving the function of the thyroid gland.
- Add freshly cut ginger slices to a cup of boiling water.
- Steep for 5 minutes.
- Add some honey and drink daily.
Ginger might increase the risk for bleeding disorders. It can also make the condition of people with diabetes and heart disease worse, thus, it is contraindicated.
3. Guggul
Guggul has an active compound guggulsterone that can help in the home remedies for hypothyroidism. It helps stimulate the thyroid gland and has anti-obesity, anti-inflammatory and anti-cholesterol benefits.
- Take 25mg of guggul three times a day as an herb supplement.
This is contraindicated to people who are using birth control pills, beta-blockers, estrogen and some other medications as it can interfere with their effects. It should not also be taken by women who are pregnant, breastfeeding and those who have bleeding disorders.
4. Fish Oils
Fish oils are well-known as a good source of omega-3 fatty acids which are beneficial for the body. Such oils also improve immunity, fight off inflammation and increase thyroid hormone uptake as well as maintain the great functioning of the thyroid gland.
- Take fish oil supplements daily. The general dosage is around 3 grams per day, but this may change depending on your doctor.
Fish oil is contraindicated to people with bipolar disorder, liver disease, depression, familial adenomatous polyposis, decreased immune response such as in HIV/AIDS patients, and those with seafood or fish allergies. It is safe to be taken by pregnant and lactating women as well as by children as long as it is consumed in moderation.
5. Kelp
Kelp may be in question as to its validity as one of the home remedies for hypothyroidism but experts don’t agree as long as you do not have autoimmune thyroid problems. Kelp is known to be rich in iodine and other minerals that can help improve hypothyroidism caused by iodine deficiency.
- Include kelp on your everyday diet. However, just eat in moderation and do not eat too much of it as it can be dangerous.
Kelp is contraindicated for people with known iodine and iodide allergies. It is also not advisable for people who have increased levels of iodine in their body and other diseases that are related to high levels of iodine.
6. Adequate Sun Exposure
The most natural thyroid treatment is probably sun exposure as you will only let yourself feel the sun’s rays. This is to help maintain a good level of vitamin D in the body which will help support calcium metabolism and healthy immune system.
- Get enough sunshine for around 15-20 minutes twice daily. To ensure that it is the healthy rays, get unprotected sun during early morning and evening hours.
Sun exposure is contraindicated to people with sun-related diseases and conditions.
7. Ashwagandha
This is an adaptogen herb which aids the body in times of stress and it also keeps the balance of the hormone levels. It lowers cholesterol and balances the T4 levels in the body.
- Boil 1 cup of water in a pot.
- Add 1 tsp of ashwagandha roots once boiled.
- Cover and simmer for approximately 10 minutes.
- Strain the mixture and drink the liquid.
Ashwagandha maybe unsafe for pregnant women as there are some reports it can cause miscarriage. It is also not advisable for people with stomach ulcers, autoimmune diseases and low blood pressure.
8. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil helps stimulate energy in the body and improves metabolism too. It has medium-chain fatty acids that improve the function of the thyroid gland.
- Add 2 tbsp of coconut oil to a glass of milk.
- Drink the mixture during breakfast daily.
Though coconut oil is considered safe for pregnancy and breastfeeding, it is still advice to consume it in moderate amounts. There is not enough information known for the contraindications of coconut oil as long as it is taken in moderation.
9. Dulse
Dulse is a type of seaweed which is helpful in boosting the iodine content of the body. It is a natural source of iodine that helps in the treatment of hypothyroidism.
- Check for dried dulse in health food stores.
- Include the dried seaweed in your daily meals such as in soups. You may also add fish cakes or tuna fish.
It is not recommended for people with high iodine-related diseases and elevated vitamin K levels. People who have known allergies to seafood should also not consume dulse.
10. Kombucha
Kombucha contains useful probiotics that will help in the treatment of hypothyroidism. Probiotics help keep your stomach and intestines healthy due to the live bacteria it contains.
- Mix hot water and sugar in a glass jar until sugar dissolves.
- Place any tea bags in the sugared water.
- Cool to 20-30°C. Remove the tea bags after 10-15 minutes.
- Add distilled white vinegar.
- Add active kombucha SCOBY.
- Cover the jar with a coffee filter and secured with a rubber band.
- Set aside the mixture away from direct sunlight and maintain the designated temperature for 7-30 days.
- Pour kombucha from the top of the jar when drinking.
Kombucha is unsafe for both pregnant and breast-feeding women. It is also not recommended for people who have alcoholic issues, diabetes, diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, undergoing surgery and a weak immune system.
These home remedies are helpful in the treatment and alleviating symptoms brought about by hypothyroidism.