Home Remedies for Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism occurs when the  thyroid gland is underactive. It affects the body’s metabolism rate, which is controlled primarily by the thyroid gland.

Some of the common symptoms associated with hypothyroidism are fatigue, increased sensitivity to cold, constipation, dry skin, puffy face, hoarse voice, muscle cramping, sudden weight gain, depression and brittle fingernails and hair.

Many natural remedies can help control this health problem. Also, do consult your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Here are the top 10 home remedies for hypothyroidism.

1. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil contains medium-chain fatty acids that help improve thyroid functioning. It will also stimulate metabolism and boost energy.

• Use coconut oil for cooking. Always use extra-virgin organic coconut cooking oil.
• You can also add two tablespoons of coconut oil to milk and drink it in the morning along with your breakfast every day. You can also add it to your smoothies.

2. Kelp

Kelp is a brown seaweed rich in iodine and other minerals. It is useful for those suffering from hypothyroidism due to iodine deficiency. However, this remedy is not recommended for those suffering from autoimmune thyroid problems or else it may worsen the condition.

So, do consult your doctor before taking kelp supplements to check if it is suitable for you and find the correct dosage specific to your condition.

3. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar may also help deal with this thyroid disorder. It is believed that it aids detoxification, restores acid alkaline balance, facilitates weight loss, and helps regulate hormones and improve their energy metabolism. apple cider vinegar is also beneficial for other health problems like diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and others.

1. Add two tablespoons of organic apple cider vinegar to a glass of warm water.
2. Mix in a little honey.
3. Drink this solution daily on a regular basis.

4. Fish Oils

Fish oils are considered good for increasing thyroid hormone uptake and maintaining healthy thyroid function. Being rich in omega 3 fatty acids, they also fight inflammation and increase immunity.

Take fish oil supplements after consulting your doctor, especially if you are taking blood thinners. The general dosage is up to 3 grams per day.

5. Vitamin D

Vitamin D deficiency has been associated with several autoimmune diseases, including thyroid disease. Exposure to early sunshine is a good way to generate the vitamin D required by the body.

So, expose your body to early morning sunrays for about 15 minutes daily. This will also help maintain healthy immune function and calcium metabolism.

Those suffering from hypothyroidism can make it a habit to wake up in the morning and do some healthy exercises (stimulates the thyroid gland), such as walking outdoors. You’ll get the early sunshine as well as benefit from the physical exercise.

6. Guggul

Guggul comes from the gum resin of an Indian tree called Commiphora Mukul. Research indicates that its active compounds called guggulsterones may help in the treatment of hypothyroidism by stimulating thyroid function. Plus, it has anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity and cholesterol-lowering benefits.

You can take this herb in supplement form after consulting your doctor. Generally, it is taken in doses of 25 mg three times a day. When taking this herb, be sure to monitor your T3 and T4 thyroid hormone levels as it stimulates the conversion of T4 into its more active T3 form.

Caution: Guggul may interfere with estrogen, birth control pills, beta-blockers and other medications.

7. Evening Primrose Oil

Evening primrose oil is another great ingredient that can help hypothyroid patients. Being high in gamma linoleic acids (GLAs), primrose oil offers anti-inflammatory benefits and helps increase the levels of thyroid hormones.

At the same, it can relieve problems associated with hypothyroidism, such as hair loss and heavy menstrual flow.

The general recommendation for taking evening primrose oil is two to eight grams daily. Consult your doctor to find out the suitable dosage for your case.

8. Ginger

Ginger is a good source of zinc, magnesium and potassium, and its powerful anti-inflammatory properties can help improve thyroid functioning.

• Fresh ginger root slices can be added to soups and other dishes.
• Another option is to drink a two or three cups of hot ginger tea. To make this herbal tea, add some fresh ginger slices to a cup of boiling water. Steep for five minutes, and then add some honey to it.

9. Siberian Ginseng

Siberian ginseng is very useful for stimulating adrenal and thymus glands, which support the functioning of the thyroid gland. This herb will also help alleviate fatigue, one of the most common symptoms of hypothyroidism.

Take a dose of 100 to 200 mg of Siberian ginseng extract twice daily, before breakfast and before lunch. Be sure to consult your doctor before starting a supplement regimen.

10. B Vitamins

When dealing with hypothyroidism, take adequate amounts of B vitamins including vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9 and B12 to help reduce the symptoms. B vitamins are vital for healthy thyroid function.

Moreover, researchers suspect that those suffering from hypothyroidism may also be suffering from vitamin B12 deficiency.

So, make whole grains and fortified cereals an important part of your diet. Plus, include fresh vegetables and sea vegetables in your regular diet. Avoid cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and kale because they contain goitrogens. Goitrogens are antinutrients that interfere with the functioning of the thyroid gland.