Alternative Medicine Treatment for Underactive Thyroid

Every cell in a body needs thyroid hormone. An underactive thyroid is unable to deliver energy to different cells in the body. Symptoms of an under active thyroid, or hypothyroidism, include weight gain, fatigue, dry skin and hair, and cold intolerance. 

• Maintain a healthy weight. Eat a healthy diet rich in iodine. Consume seafood, shellfish, sea salt, whole grains, nuts, seeds, organic vegetables and fruits. Incorporate seaweeds, chlorella and algaes into your diet. Exercise regularly for at least 30 minutes.


• Doctors prescribe thyroid medication to treat this condition. Alternative medicine treatments can be effective in regulating thyroid function.


• Avoid processed foods, refined sugar, artificial sweeteners, dairy products, wheat, caffeine and alcohol.


• Take supplements that support thyroid function, including selenium, folic acid, zinc, Vitamin D, B-complex Vitamins, Vitamin E, Vitamin C, and calcium and magnesium. Take essential fatty acids three times a day.


• Avoid stress in life. Learn deep breathing techniques and perform activities to help reduce stress. Yoga can be of great benefit to thyroid patients.


• Consider a combination of alternative treatments, including acupuncture, herbs, homeopathic remedies and traditional Chinese medicine. Some chiropractors recommend reflexology techniques. Points on the palms and soles of the feet are linked to the endocrine system and help stimulate the thyroid glands.


• Research medicinal herbs for an underactive thyroid. Medicinal herbs can be an effective way to treat hypothyroidism, but they should be taken with precaution.  Some herbs have side effects, or interact with other medications. Maca, a cruciferous root that grows in the Andes of Peru, may serve as an alternative to hormone replacement therapy. Some herbal remedies suggested to treat hypothyroidism include kelp, Equisetum arvense or field horsetail, Avena saliva and much, much more.