Natural treatments for hypothyroidism
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Herbal and Traditional Medicine for Hypothyroidism
Several studies highlight the potential of herbal and traditional medicine as natural treatments for hypothyroidism. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) uses multi-herb prescriptions that target various aspects of hypothyroidism, offering a more comprehensive approach than single hormone supplementation. TCM herbs are reported to help manage symptoms and improve thyroid function, making them a valuable complementary option for some patients . Similarly, Ayurveda, the traditional Indian system of medicine, employs herbal formulations such as Kanchanara and Kanchnara Guggulu, which are believed to normalize thyroid function and reduce symptoms without containing synthetic or phyto-hormones. Ayurvedic treatments focus on balancing bodily energies (doshas) and include dietary, lifestyle, and detoxification therapies, which have shown promising results in both clinical cases and broader patient groups 67.
Specific Herbal Remedies and Their Effects
Research has identified several specific herbs with potential benefits for hypothyroidism. Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha), Commiphora mukul (Guggul), Bacopa monnieri (Brahmi), and Centella asiatica (Gotu Kola) have demonstrated thyroid-stimulating, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. These herbs may enhance thyroid hormone synthesis, improve iodine uptake, and regulate TSH levels, while also reducing oxidative stress . Randomized controlled trials have shown that Ashwagandha can significantly increase T3 and T4 levels and decrease TSH, indicating improved thyroid function. Nigella sativa (black seed) has also been found to reduce weight, BMI, and TSH, and increase T3 in some studies, though results are mixed. Mentha x Piperita (peppermint) showed some improvement in fatigue, but effects were less pronounced .
Ginger Supplementation for Persistent Symptoms
Ginger supplementation has been studied for its ability to relieve persistent hypothyroid symptoms in patients whose TSH levels are already controlled with standard therapy. Clinical trials found that ginger can significantly improve symptoms such as weight gain, cold intolerance, constipation, dry skin, and cognitive issues. Ginger also helped reduce body weight, BMI, waist circumference, and improved blood sugar and cholesterol levels .
Natural Desiccated Thyroid (NDT) as an Alternative
Natural desiccated thyroid (NDT), derived from animal thyroid glands, was the mainstay of hypothyroidism treatment before synthetic hormones became standard. NDT contains both T4 and T3, and some patients who do not respond well to levothyroxine (synthetic T4) have reported symptom relief with NDT. However, NDT is generally recommended only after careful consideration and when other treatments have not been effective .
Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) Approaches
Broader CAM approaches, including biologically based therapies, manipulative therapies, mind-body practices, and whole medical systems, are also used to manage hypothyroidism. These methods address lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, and stress, which are known contributors to thyroid dysfunction. Integrating these approaches may help reduce side effects, lower treatment costs, and improve patient compliance .
Safety and Considerations
While herbal and natural treatments show promise, their safety, potential drug interactions, and long-term effects require further study. Some herbal remedies may interact with conventional thyroid medications or have variable effects depending on individual patient factors. It is important for patients to consult healthcare professionals before starting any natural or herbal therapy for hypothyroidism 45.
Conclusion
Natural treatments for hypothyroidism, including herbal medicine, traditional systems like TCM and Ayurveda, ginger supplementation, and NDT, offer alternative or complementary options to standard hormone therapy. These approaches may help manage symptoms, improve thyroid function, and address underlying lifestyle factors. However, more rigorous research and clinical guidance are needed to ensure their safe and effective use.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic