This post looks at herbs H through O in the A to Z of herbs that promote thyroid health.

An underactive thyroid can contribute to uncontrollable weight gain and other undesirable conditions, while an overactive thyroid can cause anxiety, restlessness and heart trouble. Incorporate these healing natural herbs into your diet to restore hormonal balance.

You can make a powerful green juice and add fresh herbs or natural supplements that will help you maintain wellness.

He Shou Wu (Polygonum multiflorum)

Though technically a root rather than a herb, he shou wu can be used to make a tonic that has been used in Chinese medicine for centuries. In addition to helping to prevent oxidation damage to the heart, he shou wu:

• Improves adrenal and thyroid secretions, aiding underactive thyroids
• Provides anti-inflammatory support
• Aids digestion (it has a mild laxative effect)

Licorice

Forget the sugar-loaded sweets – licorice in its natural, healthy plant form offers a host of benefits. These include:

• Boosting weakened adrenals, which in turn can improve thyroid health
• Reducing inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract
• Alleviating other inflammatory conditions such as arthritis

Mushrooms

Mushrooms are admittedly a fungus rather than a herb, but they deserve mention simply because they contribute well to ensuring good thyroid function. Their benefits include:

• High selenium content – selenium is needed for the body to convert T4 to T3 (active thyroid hormone)
• Natural help with stress management (mushrooms are rich in the important stress-reducing B vitamins)

Nettle

Because of the central role iodine plays in healthy thyroid function, nettle is a good herbal supplement to add to your diet. Health benefits include:

• Increased production of thyroid hormones (help with hypothyroidism)
• Relief from menopausal symptoms
• Arthritis relief
• A supportive effect on the kidneys

Oregon Grape

Another natural thyroid stimulant, Oregan Grape was used historically along the Oregon Trail in North America. In addition to helping balance hormone production in the thyroid, Oregon Grape:

• Is a natural antibiotic and antiseptic
• Is rich in vitamin C
• Helps cleanse the liver

If you want to add herbs to your diet to improve thyroid function, do so safely and schedule a consultation with Doctor Allie.