A deficiency of thyroid hormones leads to general sluggishness, a sensitivity to the cold, and general low body temperature. It can cause, in particular, cold hands and feet; a slow heart rate; poor and slow digestion and a loss of appetite accompanied by weight gain; painful menstruation and other hormonal problems, sometimes including infertility; constipation, general low immunity; dry skin and hair; thinning eyebrows; and overall fatigue. Goiter may also occur.
If there is weight gain, still eat three very balanced but light meals a day; include rice, steamed vegetables, fruit, and raw vegetables. Juicing fruits or vegetables is excellent as part of this food program, especially those rich in digestive enzymes.
Avoid cabbage, brussels sprouts, kale, broccoli, watercress, turnip, cauliflower, and mustard greens, as they suppress thyroid hormone production.
Gently increase seaweed intake as part of your food program. Bladder wrack and kelp are especially beneficial incorporated into cooking.
Use three parts Siberian ginseng root, two parts skullcap leaf, and one part lobelia leaf to support the nerves and adrenal glands. Nerve stimulants like celery seed and oat straw will be vital. Take male and female hormones like chaste tree berry and saw palmetto berry. Heart, circulatory, and digestive herbs will be needed. Do not use herbs that sedate the nervous system, like valerian root. Use bladder wrack seaweed as a tincture or capsule to balance the thyroid. If the immune system is low, take echinacea root periodically.
Take hot and cold showers twice a day, directing the water over the thyroid area (the front of the neck).
Massage, using light strokes.
This Natural Hypothyroidism Treatment article is taken from :
The complete home guide to herbs, natural healing, and nutrition / Jill Rosemary Davies.
