Naturopathy for Thyroid

It is a butterfly-shaped gland, situated in the front part of your neck, which produces hormones needed for normal metabolism. This regulate our metabolic rate and how fast or slow our organs and tissues function. Disordered function, therefore, upsets the whole rhythm of the body.

Dysfunction can cause a number of different symptoms. This problems can affect weight, energy levels, appetite and mood; but the effects will be different depending on whether the gland is over-functioning or under functioning.

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is a state of over-activity of the gland with excessive production of hormones and an increased metabolic rate – it’s as if the drums that set the rhythm for our bodies have sped up too much and are making everything function too fast. Symptoms of hyperthyroidism can include:

Feeling hot and intolerant of hot weather
Weight loss
Anxiety, restlessness and insomnia
Excessive sweating
Increased heart rate
Fine tremors of the fingers
High blood pressure

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism, on the other hand, is a state of under-activity of the gland with an underproduction of hormone – as if the drums have slowed down and the beat that is running how our body functions are too slow. When your body does not produce enough of the hormone, the body’s metabolism slows so much that you can experience symptoms such as:

Tiredness and fatigue
Depression
Irritability
Weight gain
Intolerance to cold weather
Brittle hair
Slow heart rate
A croaky, hoarse voice

The good news is that there are many herbal remedies and nutrients available to help improve the activity of hypothyroidism and have a calming effect with hyperthyroidism.

By combining the wisdom of nutrition and herbal medicine we can assist in the management of conditions, helping you feel your best.