Alternative medicine for hypothyroidism
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Alternative Medicine for Hypothyroidism
Introduction to Hypothyroidism and Conventional Treatments
Hypothyroidism is a prevalent endocrine disorder characterized by insufficient production of thyroid hormones, leading to various metabolic, cardiovascular, and neurological symptoms4. The standard treatment involves thyroid hormone replacement therapy, primarily with levothyroxine (LT4). However, many patients continue to experience symptoms despite normalized thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels5 8. This has led to an increased interest in alternative and complementary medicine (CAM) approaches.
Herbal Medicine for Hypothyroidism
Nigella Sativa L.
Nigella sativa L., commonly known as black seed, has shown promising results in managing hypothyroidism. Studies indicate that it can significantly reduce weight and body mass index (BMI) while improving TSH and T3 levels1. However, results are mixed, with some studies showing no significant difference between treatment and control groups1. Additionally, it has been observed to affect cholesterol and fasting blood sugar levels differently based on the presence of anti-thyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO) antibodies1.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha, a well-known adaptogen, has demonstrated significant improvements in thyroid hormone levels. Clinical trials have shown that T3 and T4 levels increased substantially in the ashwagandha group, while TSH levels decreased significantly compared to placebo1. This suggests that ashwagandha could be a viable alternative for managing hypothyroidism symptoms.
Mentha x Piperita L.
Peppermint (Mentha x Piperita L.) has also been studied for its effects on hypothyroidism. While it did not show significant differences in fatigue scores at the midpoint of the study, improvements were noted in all subscales by day 141. This indicates potential benefits in alleviating some symptoms of hypothyroidism.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a multi-faceted approach to treating hypothyroidism, focusing on restoring balance and improving overall health. TCM prescriptions and herbs have been used effectively to manage hypothyroidism, providing advantages over single hormone supplementation2. However, more rigorous studies are needed to validate these findings and establish standardized treatment protocols.
Ayurvedic Medicine
Trikatu Churna
In Ayurveda, hypothyroidism is often linked to "Mandagni" or low digestive fire. Trikatu Churna, a traditional Ayurvedic formulation, has been studied for its potential in managing hypothyroidism. Clinical trials have shown that it can effectively improve symptoms, suggesting it as a beneficial dietary supplement for hypothyroid patients7.
Combination Therapies
Combination therapies involving levothyroxine and liothyronine (LT3) have been explored as alternatives to monotherapy. Studies indicate that combination therapy can improve quality of life and cognitive function in patients who do not fully benefit from LT4 alone6 10. However, more research is needed to establish the safety and efficacy of these combinations5 8.
Emerging Therapies
Recent advancements in regenerative medicine have introduced the concept of thyroid tissue engineering. Regenerative scaffolds composed of biopolymers or decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM) have shown potential in restoring thyroid function in vivo4. These innovative approaches could offer new avenues for treating hypothyroidism in the future.
Conclusion
While conventional levothyroxine therapy remains the standard treatment for hypothyroidism, alternative medicine offers promising complementary options. Herbal remedies like Nigella sativa L., ashwagandha, and Mentha x Piperita L., along with traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicines, show potential in managing hypothyroidism symptoms. Combination therapies and emerging regenerative techniques also present exciting possibilities. However, further research is essential to validate these treatments and integrate them into standard clinical practice.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
Achievements in Hypothyroidism Treatment with Herbal Medicine: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials.
Herbal remedies, such as Nigella sativa L., ashwagandha, and Mentha x Piperita L., can improve the signs and symptoms of primary hypothyroidism.
Systematic ReviewTraditional Chinese medicine prescriptions and herbs for the treatment of hypothyroidism: a narrative review
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) offers multi-channel comprehensive characteristics for the treatment of hypothyroidism, offering advantages over single thyroid hormone supplementation.
Literature ReviewInclusive Exploration of Harmonizing and Alternative Treatments for Hypothyroidism
Alternative treatments, such as herbs and complementary and alternative medications, show promise in treating hypothyroidism, with potential benefits for global healthcare initiatives.
Literature ReviewFrom hormone replacement therapy to regenerative scaffolds: A review of current and novel primary hypothyroidism therapeutics
Regenerative scaffolds show potential in restoring thyroid function in primary hypothyroidism patients, but further work is needed for clinical translation and safety.
Literature ReviewGuidelines for the treatment of hypothyroidism: prepared by the american thyroid association task force on thyroid hormone replacement.
Levothyroxine should remain the standard of care for treating hypothyroidism, as there is no consistently strong evidence to suggest alternative preparations improve health outcomes.
Rigorous Journal
Highly CitedEmerging Therapies in Hypothyroidism.
Combination levothyroxine and liothyronine (LT4+LT3) therapy is safe and improves quality of life and cognition for some hypothyroid patients, while regenerative technology advances lead to human thyroid organoids.
TRIKATU CHURNA IN THE MANAGEMENT OF HYPOTHYROIDISM
Trikatu churna is effective in managing hypothyroidism, as it effectively treats hypometabolism in tissues.
Non-RCTReplacement therapy of hypothyroidism: Whether the use of levothyroxine is adequate?
Combination therapy with L-T4and liothyronine(L-T3) may be an alternative option for hypothyroidism treatment, but more prospective studies are needed for evidence-based effects.
Chinese herbal medicines for hypothyroidism.
There is currently no evidence available from randomized clinical trials on the effectiveness of Chinese herbal medicines for treating hypothyroidism, and no ongoing registered trials were found.
Meta-Analysis
Very Rigorous Journal