You may have seen the previous post beginning the A to Z of herbs that have beneficial effects on thyroid function. This follows on and examines the medicinal properties of herbs from Chickweed to Guggulu.

Always remember to consult with your doctor before adding any new supplement to your diet, to avoid any possible drug interactions. You can find your own way to wellness by using nature’s medicine chest in your smoothies, salads and other nourishing meals.

Chickweed (Stellaria media)

Although thought of us a common garden weed, chickweed is edible and has numerous health-giving properties including:

• High saponin levels – these are substances that help to break down fat cells
• Regulating thyroid function and balancing your metabolism
• Chickweed infusions are also said to be excellent for helping eye conditions such as conjunctivitis

Coleus Forskohlii (Plectranthus barbatus)

This herb has been used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. It’s used as a fat burning supplement and has additional medicinal properties:

• Assists with low thyroid function
• Improves heart health
• Reduces intraocular pressure which contributes to glaucoma

Eleuthero (Siberian Ginseng)

Eleuthero or Siberian ginseng is an adrenal adaptogen that supports thyroid function and is especially useful for hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid). Further benefits of taking Siberian ginseng as a supplement include:

• Increased stamina and energy
• Mild mood elevation

Gentian

This plant has multiple health benefits, including:

• Assisting with hypothyroidism – it stimulates an underactive metabolism and enhances the production of thyroid hormones
• Relief from gastric diseases
• Normalising gallbladder function

Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica)

This herb has been used in Chinese medicine for thousands of years. It is a natural hormone and nervous system regulator. Supplementing your diet with Gotu Kola can help:

• Normalise your hormones
• Increase energy and vitality

Guduchi

This herb, traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine for a range of health improvements. Guduchi is said to assist in:

• Boosting thyroid activity
• Helping the liver remove toxins from the body

Guggulu

Another Ayurvedic herb, Gugulu is widely used to alleviate a range of medical problems, including nervous disorders, bronchitis, arthritis and more. Additional health properties include:

• Stimulating underactive thyroids and assisting in weight loss
• Reducing cholesterol levels

Do you want to know more about how you can incorporate nature’s medicine chest into your diet? Contact Doctor Allie today and schedule an appointment so you can discuss finding a holistic eating plan.